What condition is characterized by milky-white spots on the skin and must be protected from sun overexposure?

The condition characterized by milky-white spots on the skin is known as vitiligo. This skin disorder occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment, are destroyed or stop functioning, leading to areas of skin that lack color. These depigmented patches can appear on various parts of the body, and individuals with vitiligo are often more susceptible to sunburn since the affected areas have no melanin to provide natural protection against UV radiation.

Given the nature of vitiligo, it is crucial for those affected to take precautions against sun overexposure. Protective measures may include the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sun damage and skin cancer in the depigmented areas. In contrast, the other conditions mentioned, such as psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea, have different underlying mechanisms and presentations, and their management focuses on other concerns rather than specifically on the protection of depigmented skin from sun exposure.