4 mistakes to avoid during vitiligo treatment

Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that causes depigmentation of the skin. The body attacks the skin cells called melanocytes (responsible for skin pigment) resulting in loss of skin colour in patches. Vitiligo is also called leucoderma or white leprosy and is not contagious. The signs of vitiligo can first show up in early childhood or even later in one’s 80s. Social stigma around this skin disease can lead to lower self-esteem in people suffering from vitiligo. The uncertainty of this skin disease and myths can make it difficult to deal with vitiligo.

While the symptoms and causes of vitiligo differ from person to person, the following list of reasons can complicate dealing with vitiligo:

• Skipping Treatment:

  Contrary to common belief vitiligo is a medical condition and can be treated effectively. Moreover, in most cases, the white patches will spread to other areas of the body. Therefore, it needs to be controlled in the early stages of the disease with the right treatment.

   

• Diet:

  No data clearly implicates diet or any vitamin supplementation as the trigger for vitiligo. For example, consuming milk or citrus food does not trigger vitiligo. Just like most auto-immune diseases, your genetic makeup can be partially responsible for the white patches on skin. Hence lack of intake of milk, fish, or citrus foods can only lead to nutritional deficiencies.

   

• Sun Damage:

  In general, vitiligo white patches on the skin are painless and do not cause any itching sensation. However, exposure to the sun may cause irritation or even a burning sensation. This can make the condition more severe and difficult to treat. When stepping out in the sun, it is always recommended to apply sunscreen.

   

• Using Conventional Treatment:

  Vitiligo can be treated using topical steroids, phototherapy, skin grafting or other surgical treatments. However, each of these methods has its own side effects. Also, it does not reduce the chance of recurrence.

In contrast, homeopathy uses an individualized and holistic approach. It helps in controlling the spread of white patches on the skin as well as improving the complete well-being of the patient. It enhances the body’s immune response without any side effects.