Vitiligo: What is it? What are the causes and treatment?
We live in a world that values diversity and highlights occasions and circumstances that make each person feel special. One such condition that requires our attention and comprehension is vitiligo, a rare skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In this blog, we will delve deeper into knowing what vitiligo is, raise awareness around vitiligo and provide some important expert advice for taking care of vitiligo skin.
The Basics First: What Is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a skin condition where white patches appear on the skin. This skin condition is characterized by the loss of melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin. White patches on the skin, which can appear on any part of the body, result from this loss of pigment. Although the exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, it is thought to be a combination of environmental, autoimmune, and genetic factors. It can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on individuals of all ages, races, and genders.
Who Can Develop Vitiligo?
Anyone can develop vitiligo at any age. It is not gender or race specific. It is more visible in people who have darker skin tones. For many people, the white patches begin to appear before the age of 30 years and for some, the patches appear in early childhood.
Vitiligo is more common in people who have autoimmune conditions or family history. Some diseases leading to vitiligo are:
- Psoriasis
- Thyroid
- Type 1 diabetes
- Addison's disease
- Pernicious anaemia
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Every Skin Is Beautiful
Every skin is beautiful, and at Fixderma, we celebrate diversity and promote self-acceptance. Individuals with vitiligo often face challenges due to societal pressures and beauty standards. Encouraging self-love and body positivity and educating others about the condition can help them learn that every skin is beautiful.
Expert-Recommended Tips for Vitiligo Care
-
Sun Protection: Protecting the skin from sun exposure is crucial for individuals with vitiligo. Melanocytes provide some natural protection against harmful UV rays, so sunscreen with a high SPF should be applied to exposed areas. Seeking shade during peak sun hours and wearing protective clothing can further minimize the risk of sunburn and potential damage to the skin.
What can you try? - Fixderma Shadow 50+ Gel or Cream can be an ideal choice.
-
Moisturization and Hydration: Keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated is important for individuals with vitiligo. Use gentle and fragrance-free moisturizers to help maintain the skin's barrier function and prevent excessive dryness. Hydrating serums can provide additional nourishment to the skin.
What can you try? - Fixderma Age Reverse Serum can be an ideal choice.
- Psychological Support: Living with vitiligo can have a significant impact on a person's mental and emotional well-being. Seeking psychological support and counselling can provide individuals with the tools to cope with the challenges they may face. You, as an individual, can support & motivate people with vitiligo to not lose their confidence and feel content in their skin.
- Medical Treatments: Dermatologists can provide various treatment options for vitiligo, depending on the individual's needs and preferences. Topical treatments prescribed to help repigment the affected areas can be used. Fixderma Vitipause Gel is a pigment-regulating formulation that promotes epidermal pigmentation & improves the appearance of vitiligo. The rich blend of botanical antioxidants helps maintain free radical balance in the melanocytes. But, one should use this product only when the dermat recommends it.
Conclusion: Remember, vitiligo does not define a person; it simply adds to their individuality. Let's cultivate compassion, acceptance, and love for all skin types and conditions together.
Read more - How can you prevent acne during the summer?