This is the skin condition that turned
Michael Jackson white. For the most part.
People with Vitiligo develop white spots on their skin because their
immune system for some unknown reason attacks their
melanocytes, stopping the production of
melanin(skin
pigment). It's very common, affecting about one out of hundred people. It's
genetic, not
contagious and is not confined to any particular
race or
sex.
Commonly affected areas of the
body are
hands,
elbows,
knees,
genitals, area around the
mouth and
eyes.
Often, the
depigmentation is
symmetrical.
Sometimes, though rarer, nearly the entire body's pigment is eliminated. This is called
Vitiligo Universalis.
I always thought that skin like this looked really pretty. The contrasting colors are fascinating.
I think I once pissed this guy off on the bus because I was looking at his hands which were dark brown with white splotches. They were very beautiful. He saw me and shot me a dirty look.
Yes, I have a
staring problem. :/