Vitiligo

What is vitiligo?

Vitiligo is characterised as a depigmenting disorder of the skin where pigment cells are lost. It presents as milky-white patches.

What causes vitiligo?

The cause of Vitiligo is due to the destruction or loss of melanin producing skin cells; melanocytes. These skin cells produce melanin which determines the colour of our skin, hair and eyes.

Vitiligo is considered an auto-immune disorder however there is also a genetic component.

What areas are commonly affected by vitiligo?

Vitiligo can present as a single patch or can then affect as several patches and severity . Commonly affected areas include; faces (eyelids, nostrils), neck, fingertips and toes, armpits, groin, and even genitalia. Vitiligo can also be in sites of injury like cuts, surgical wounds, acne or sunburn. Vitiligo can also affect hair baring areas causing hair to also present witch a white tone.

Treatment for vitiligo

• Sun–protection: SPF 50+ is encouraged as vitiligo skin is more prone to being more sun sensitive than non-vitiligo skin. Sunburn is also know to spread vitiligo.
• Mineral makeup: cosmetic camouflage is a commonly prescribed to help disguise vitiligo patches.
• Low level UV light: Sunlight can slow the growth of skin cells so low level sunlight can make a difference. 10 minutes session two to three times a week with sunscreen on as sunburn can aggravate psoriasis.
• Topical treatments: may be prescribed by your Nurse Practitioner to reduce inflammation.

Psychological effects of vitiligo

Vitiligo can cause some psychological effects resulting in a reduce quality of life. Higher levels of depression and anxiety have been associated with Vitiligo. Patients can suffer from low self-esteem, social stigmatisation, shame, avoidance of social situations, fear, suicidal ideations.

It is essential to fully address vitiligo symptoms and concerns there must be acknowledgement of the psychological effects of Vitiligo. Skinfluence Clinic works with local psychologists to provide patients with a holistic approach to Vitiligo treatments.