7. Topical Steroids
Topical steroids work by reducing the inflammation in the skin and suppressing the immune response that is believed to play a role in the loss of pigmentation in vitiligo. The steroids are applied directly to the affected areas in the form of creams, ointments, or gels.
The application of topical steroids is a common treatment for vitiligo. Examples of tropical steroids for vitiligo are fluticasone propionate, hydrocortisone butyrate, and fluticasone propionate.
6. Vitamin D
Vitamin D can play a significant role in regulating the function of melanocytes. It can help enhance these cells that produce the pigment melanin that determine the color of the skin, hair, and eyes. By promoting melanocyte function, vitamin D may help treat vitiligo.
Vitamin D also helps to regulate the immune system. By boosting it, vitamin D may help reduce the progression of the disease.
5. Skin Concealers
Skin concealers can help cover up the white patches caused by vitiligo, giving the appearance of a more even skin tone. Concealers come in various forms, including creams, and powders.
Skin concealers can be matched to the individual’s skin tone. They can be applied directly to the affected areas and blended into the surrounding skin. While skin concealers do not cure vitiligo, they can provide cosmetic relief and help boost self-confidence for those with the condition.
4. Depigmentation
For individuals with widespread vitiligo that have not responded to other treatments, depigmentation can be considered a treatment option. A depigmenting agent is applied to the parts of the skin that are not affected.
This gradually lightens the skin to match the discolored areas. The therapy involves daily applications, either once or twice a day, for a period of nine months or more.
3. Skin Grafting
Skin grafting is a surgical procedure that involves the transplantation of tiny segments of healthy, pigmented skin to the depigmented areas affected by vitiligo.
The transplanted skin is taken from an area of the body that is not affected by vitiligo and then grafted onto the depigmented areas. It is important to note that skin grafting for vitiligo does carry some risks, including infection.
2. Suction Blister Grafting
Suction blister grafting, also known as SBG, is another surgical technique. In this particular treatment, the outer layer of skin (epidermis) is harvested from a donor site, such as the thigh.
This is done by creating a suction blister. The harvested skin is then transplanted to the affected area of vitiligo, which has been carefully prepared by removing the top layer of skin through a process called dermabrasion. The goal of this particular treatment is to restore pigmentation to the white patches caused by vitiligo.
1. Cellular Grafting
Cellular grafting is a treatment option for individuals with stable vitiligo that has not responded to medical therapy.
The procedure involves removing skin cells from the patient’s own skin (autologous donor) and transplanting them onto the affected areas (recipient sites) of vitiligo. It is worth noting that this particular treatment option is relatively new.
These are vitiligo symptoms and treatments worth knowing.
Knowing vitiligo symptoms can help individuals identify the condition early on and seek prompt treatment.
Symptoms And Causes
Vitiligo not only affects the appearance of the skin but it can also affect the individual’s quality of life. Individuals with vitiligo may experience psychological distress, low self-esteem, and social stigma due to the noticeable changes in their skin color.
A common question about this particular condition is, what causes vitiligo. Unfortunately, the root cause of vitiligo is not fully understood.
Nonetheless, there are several theories about what might cause it. One of which is genetics. Vitiligo may also be hereditary, meaning it can be passed down from parents to children. (2)
In some cases, severe sunburns or skin exposure to chemicals may also trigger the development of vitiligo.
Below are vitiligo symptoms worth knowing about.
8. Early Loss Of Hair Color
The early loss of hair color in vitiligo is caused by a loss of melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. This happens because the immune system attacks and destroys the melanocytes.
Melanocytes are the cells that produce melanin. A decrease in these cells can lead to a loss of pigmentation in the skin and hair.
This results in premature whitening or graying of the hair on the scalp, eyebrows, lashes, or beard, as well as the skin.
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