Which skin condition is characterized by light patches on the skin?

The skin condition characterized by light patches on the skin is vitiligo. This autoimmune disorder results from the destruction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color. As a result, areas of the skin lose their pigment, leading to distinct white patches that can appear anywhere on the body. The patches are typically more noticeable on darker skin tones but can occur in people of any ethnicity.

Melasma, in contrast, is marked by dark patches often triggered by hormonal changes and sun exposure, primarily affecting the face. Eczema is a term for various inflammatory skin conditions that usually result in red, itchy, and inflamed skin rather than light patches. Rosacea is characterized by redness in the facial skin, often accompanied by visible blood vessels and sometimes acne-like breakouts, rather than any lightening of the skin.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for estheticians, as they guide clients toward appropriate skincare routines and treatments while recognizing the nuances of various skin conditions.