Actually when you have Vitiligo and depending on how much you have, you have a type of white armour. What does that mean? People who have melanin (active/fully functional melanocytes) are more susceptible than individuals who do not have pigment. When the sun rays touch our skin, there is a chemical reaction in our skin (how we tan) and those chemical changes are what makes a person more susceptible to skin cancer (nonmelanoma). Those who have no melanin (white patches) do not have the same reaction in their skin because the melanin is absent so the skin will not undergo the same chemical reaction as pigmented folks. Dr. Harris spoke on this one year at the World Vitiligo Conference. Me myself, I am sun sensitive and will burn if I stay in the sun for longer than 5 minutes. I know some people who have vitiligo that are unfazed by the sun. I also have lupus so I am extra sensitive to the sun. Glad you fully embrace your uniqueness and beauty Kellie!

It's not a vanity issue. Daily outdoor walks are my therapy. My walks are how I stay fit both physically and mentally. I have noticed now with vitiligo, my skin is extremely sensitive to the sun. It isn't just the patches. I am sensitive everywhere. I am terrified of getting burned and causing more damage and possibly cancer. It weighs heavily on me daily. I think about it every time I walk outside. The cosmetic issue, for me, is a non-issue. I am concerned about not being able to do the things that I love or fully live my life because my skin no longer has a filter...

I definitely notice an increase during stressful periods in my life and try really hard not to obsess over it. Just when I feel like I have mapped them all...well, I didnt. I know my vitiligo is my blessing and teaches me how to be a better human so I am practicing gratitude. :)

Hi Kellie. I've lived a lifetime and can map vitiligo patch increase by stressful periods in my life. I am more >75% w/o pigment, and continuing to learn. Namaste'

Stress adds to it.