Mind tricks

Vitiligo plays mind tricks on us: Has his chin changed, or does it merely appear different due to a new complexion? Are his lips different or his bone structure or his fingers or are we just not accustomed to this new look? Is it a hefty dose of cosmetic surgery, or are we simply being fooled by an optical illusion? Perhaps it’s a bit of both?

The truth is, we’re in uncharted territory here. While we might have seen vitiligo before, we’ve never witnessed someone actively concealing patches to achieve a uniform look, all while transforming right before our eyes.

We don’t understand, and as a result feel discomfort, offense, or even fear. We crave logical explanations, and cosmetic surgery starts to sound like a reasonable theory to rationalize our unease.

Vicious cycle of alienation

Although there are people publically embracing vitiligo and there is increasing public awareness, others are struggling. Living with this skin condition in the spotlight can potentially be incredibly tough, particularly a few decades ago. Not only do you deal with the trauma of an uncontrollable change in appearance, but you also face the added pain of bullying or, even worse, the assumption that you’re doing this on purpose. You might feel ashamed and vulnerable, making you want to hide. Yet the reminders are relentless.

This could turn into a vicious cycle: the more someone hides, the less we understand, which leads to more blame and further withdrawal.

We need to step up our game. It might be beneficial to take a moment, look at other people, and gain a broader perspective. If you’re unsure about the role vitiligo played in Michael Jackson’s life, looking at others with the condition might lead you to reconsider. The transformation in their appearances before and after is really amazing.