Vitiligo is a chronic and progressive skin disease in which white spots form on the skin as a result of the destruction or dysfunction of melanocytes. Melanocytes are pigment cells that give color to the skin, hair and eyes. Vitiligo can be seen at any age and in every skin type, but usually begins before the age of 20. Although the exact cause of this condition is unknown, it is thought that an autoimmune reaction plays a role. Vitiligo affects people more because of its aesthetic and psychological effects than because of its physical discomfort.
Vitiligo Symptoms
The most obvious symptom of vitiligo is white patches that appear on any area of the skin, especially in areas exposed to the sun (such as the face, hands, feet, arms, and around the lips). Other symptoms include graying of the hair, eyebrows, or eyelashes, and in some cases, loss of pigment in the oral or nasal mucosa.
Vitiligo Treatment
There is no cure for vitiligo, but current treatment options can reduce the appearance of spots and restore some skin tone:
Topical Treatments: Corticosteroid creams and immune modulators such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus can promote pigmentation in the skin.
Phototherapy: Narrow-band UVB light therapy is used to stimulate pigment formation in the skin, while PUVA therapy combines UVA light and a medication called psoralen.
Laser Treatments: Excimer laser can promote pigmentation by targeting specific patches of vitiligo.
Skin Covering and Camouflage: Makeup or special skin dyes can temporarily reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Surgical Procedures: Grafting procedures, in which pigment cells are transferred from healthy skin to blemished areas, may be effective in some patients.
It is important to work with a dermatologist to explore treatment options and develop coping strategies for your condition. Additionally, support groups and counseling for people living with vitiligo can help them cope with the challenges of the condition.
Remember, once you’ve been diagnosed with vitiligo, it’s hard to predict the exact course of the disease. However, current treatments and skin care strategies can make significant improvements to your skin’s appearance. By combining self-care with professional treatment, you can take a more powerful and effective path to combating vitiligo.
