Depigmentation of hairy body parts and scalp occurs in 9-45% of vitiligo patients. Vitiligo affecting hair follicles, appears in the form of scattered white hairs.

The appearance of scattered white hairs on the scalp is often described as having the colour of salt and pepper. The total discolouration of all hair is very rare. Hair follicles are the most likely to be affected by vitiligo up to 63,7%, then the eyebrows up to 13,8%, pubic hair up to 8,4% and armpits up to 2%.

Regarding repigmentation of melanocytes, leukotrichia is an indication of poor prognosis due to the need of melanocyte reserves for quick and successful repigmentation.

Besides leukotrichia, premature hair greying has been observed in about 37% of vitiligo patients. White discoloured hairs must be separated from grey hairs that retain melanin, which in its turn is distributed in an irregular manner.