8 Things To Do Following A Vitiligo Diagnosis

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that results in white patches on skin. The exact vitiligo cause remains unknown but it is often considered an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells (melanocytes). These skin cells are responsible for your skin colour. Other auto-immune diseases such as thyroid or diabetes can also increase the risk of vitiligo. Early consultation with a homeopathic skin expert can help treat your skin problem more effectively.

A vitiligo diagnoses can come as a shock. You may find yourself searching for the best vitiligo treatment available. In the meanwhile, here’s a list of things to keep in mind following a vitiligo diagnosis:

1. Discuss your diagnoses with your loved ones:

   Living with vitiligo can be stressful. At times talking to your friends and family can help you cope with white patches and its attached social stigmas better. The more you get support, the more it can help you cope.

    

2. Protect yourself from sunburn:

   Your skin has a pigment called melanin, which is responsible for giving skin its natural colour. Melanin also provides protection against the sun rays. However, when suffering from vitiligo there is a lack of melanin. This makes your skin sensitive and increases the risk of sunburn. Therefore to protect your skin, apply sunscreen every time you step out in the sun.

    

3. Selection of clothing:

   It is important to protect your skin from the harsh sun rays and some may also feel conscious to reveal their skin. To deal with this, the key is to remain positive and not focus on others. To protect your skin, you can choose to wear loose clothes. Clothing made of linen or cotton material can also help you cover up as well as allow your skin to breathe.

    

4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle:

   Suffering from vitiligo can be physically and emotionally draining. So, get enough sleep, eat healthy and exercise regularly. In most cases, stress can further aggravate vitiligo. Regular exercise can help reduce your stress levels and improve your mood to manage vitiligo.

    

5. Pay attention to your diet:

   A diet that is filled with nutrients is always advisable. As with any other autoimmune condition, include foods that are rich in anti-oxidants and avoid inflammatory foods or gluten.

    

6. Join a support group:

   White patches on skin often affect your body image and can also affect your self-esteem. Some people find themselves withdrawing from social interaction or may find it hard to be part of social gatherings. Joining support groups can help come to terms with the daily effects of this skin disease.