Description
Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment or color in patches on the skin. Vitiligo is not contagious and does not cause any physical harm, but it can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life.
Symptoms
The main symptom of vitiligo is the loss of pigment or color in patches on the skin. These patches may be small or large in size and can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. The patches are usually depigmented or white and may have sharp edges or be irregular in shape. They may also occur symmetrically on both sides of the body.
Other symptoms of vitiligo may include:
1. Premature whitening or graying of the hair on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or beard
2. Loss of color in the tissues that line the inside of the mouth and nose
Loss of color in the retina of the eye, leading to a sensitivity to light
3. A gradual or rapid progression of the condition, where patches of depigmentation become larger or new patches appear over time
In some cases, people with vitiligo may also experience emotional and psychological distress due to the appearance of the white patches on their skin, which can affect their self-esteem and quality of life.
Treatments
There are various treatment options available to help improve the appearance of the affected skin areas. These treatments include:
1. Topical corticosteroids: These are creams or ointments that contain steroids and are applied directly to the affected skin areas. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the immune system’s attack on the melanocytes.
2. Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These are creams or ointments that work by suppressing the immune system’s attack on the melanocytes. They are often used in areas of the body where the skin is thin, such as the face and neck.
3. Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy: This treatment involves taking a medication called psoralen, which makes the skin more sensitive to UV light, followed by exposure to UVA light. PUVA therapy helps to repigment the affected skin areas by stimulating the melanocytes.
4. Narrowband UVB therapy: This treatment involves exposure to UVB light at a specific wavelength. It is effective in repigmenting the affected skin areas, especially in people with mild to moderate vitiligo.
5. Excimer laser: This treatment uses a concentrated beam of UVB light to repigment the affected skin areas. It is often used in people with localized vitiligo.
6. Micropigmentation (tattooing): This involves tattooing the depigmented skin areas with pigment to match the surrounding skin. This treatment is often used in people with stable vitiligo.
7. Depigmentation: This involves removing the remaining pigment from the skin to create an even skin tone. It is often used in people with widespread vitiligo who have not responded to other treatments.
The choice of treatment depends on the severity and location of the affected skin areas, the age of the person, and their overall health. It is important to discuss the available treatment options with a dermatologist or healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
Nutrients and supplements:
1. Vitiligo Formula capsules – for the de-pigmentation of sections of skin
2. Miracle MSM – has therapeutic skin properties
3. Zinc – promotes tissue strength and repair
4 . Vitamin E – Protects against free-radical damage to the skin
5. Buffered Vitamin C – Is required for the formation of collagen
6. Magnesium Boron & D3 – a calcium and magnesium deficiency may contribute towards fragile skin
7. Vitamin B Complex – required for proper skin tone and texture
8. Vitamin D3 – Studies have suggested that vitamin D3 may increase tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis, leading to repigmentation in vitiligo skin lesions
Causes
Vitiligo occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment called melanin, are destroyed or stop functioning. The affected skin areas usually appear as depigmented or white patches that can be small or large in size and can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, hands, feet, and genital areas. The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys melanocytes.
Underlying Emotions
1. Feelings of being alienated, not feeling part of the group.
2. Generational/ancestral traumas where previous generations were exposed to slavery or physical abuse.
3. Stress the fetus experienced while in the womb due to the mother experiencing trauma
4. Feelings of abandonment or separation trauma.
5. Feelings of entrapment not being able to change circumstances
Diet
Here are some dietary recommendations for those with vitiligo:
1. Eat a balanced diet: It is important to consume a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients that can help support overall health and immune function.
2. Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods: Antioxidants may help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which are molecules that can damage cells and tissues in the body. Foods rich in antioxidants include berries, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.
3. Include foods high in vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is important for healthy skin and may help support melanin production. Foods rich in vitamin B12 include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
4. Consider supplementing with vitamin D: Some studies have suggested that vitamin D supplementation may improve the symptoms of vitiligo.
5. Avoid trigger foods: Some people with vitiligo may experience flare-ups when consuming certain trigger foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and dairy products. It is important to identify and avoid trigger foods if they are causing symptoms.
Remedies
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Vitamin D3 Plus TabletsR77.00
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Vitamin B ComplexR50.00
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Vitamin D3 TabletsR70.00
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Zinc TabletsR70.00
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Vitamin E CapsulesR119.00
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Vitiligo Formula CapsulesR81.00
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Miracle MSM CapsulesR70.00
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Magnesium, Boron & D3 CapsulesR77.00
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Buffered Vitamin C PowderR280.00
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Buffered Vitamin C CapsulesR70.00