WORKSHOP AND CONFERENCE 2026 – MASTERCLASS VITILIGO SURGERY 360°
Vitiligo Research Foundation (VRF), Vitiligo Foundation of India, Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL), International Society of Dermatology (ISD), Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PIGMER)
After the opening of the event by Prof. Parsad and video messages from Lee Thomas and Prof. Lotti, who were unable to attend in person, the floor was given to the patients. Their testimonies, both emotional and courageous, reminded everyone that vitiligo goes far beyond skin depigmentation. The condition deeply affects individuals in all aspects of their lives, leading to loss of self-confidence, stigma, social withdrawal, and a reduced quality of life.
Following these testimonies, Prof. Parsad, with Yan Valle (VRF), pharma representatives, and researchers, led a lengthy and highly appreciated question-and-answer session with participants. Then, Prof. Jung Min Bae (Korea) explained the role of surgery in the treatment of vitiligo, particularly for facial areas.
Dr. Maya Tulpule, president of SHWETA organization and VIPOC member, introduced in Hindi, the Association and highlighted its mission, objectives, and activities. She also proposed, as part of the session “Beyond Pigment: Celebrating Identity, Talent and Confidence”, a series of artistic performances including theatre play, Indian dance demonstration, excellent fashion show performed by patients as well as a touching movie.
All these activities were designed to raise awareness and to highlight the talents, confidence, and creativity of people living with vitiligo, while helping to challenge stigma and change perceptions of the disease.
Representing Jean-Marie Meurant, President of VIPOC, Nicolle Maquignon presented the organization’s missions and objectives and introduced the VPV (Vitiligo Patient View) survey. She emphasized its unique nature: an international survey designed by patients, for patients to better understand their journey. The collection of these data is essential to advance research and, above all, to raise awareness and engage health policy decision-makers in improving
vitiligo care worldwide.
Links and QR codes were shared with patients and physicians, who showed strong interest in this initiative and recognized the need for such data.
Two scientific days “From classical techniques to regenerative cell therapy”
Several workshops focused on grafting techniques, surgery, and emerging therapies were organized and attended online by many specialists.
The conferences brought together panels of researchers, who presented the latest advances in vitiligo management. Discussions covered treatments such as phototherapy, JAK inhibitors, lasers, topical therapies, and regenerative approaches, as well as surgical progress, particularly in segmental and pediatric vitiligo.
The psychological impact of vitiligo was also addressed, along with the growing interest in therapeutic camouflage. AI was also among the topics.
Yan Valle presented the Vitiligo Journey Map, a tool designed to better understand and support the patient care journey.
Dr. Maya Tulpule, then highlighted the vital role of support groups in fostering listening, shared experiences, and mutual support. These groups help patients break isolation, connect with others facing similar challenges, and better understand their condition. She also emphasizes the importance for dermatologists of referring patients to such structures to improve treatment adherence.
Prof. Parsad also paid a warm tribute to Prof. Yvon Gauthier, recognizing his unwavering dedication and long-standing contributions to vitiligo research.
A dedicated section featured camouflage and makeup solutions from Zanderm and MIMIQ, a new Indian brand .
A new patient support group for Indian patients has recently been launched within the IADVL.
Also participating in the conference, Prof. Dr. Fakhriya Al Shibli, a dermatologist
from Oman, and Prof. Fathi Elkasah, President of the Libyan Society of Dermatology. Both expressed strong interest in VIPOC and their desire to organize an event in their respective countries.
