FAQCan chemicals cause vitiligo?

FAQ

It’s important to remember there are multiple factors involved in vitiligo onset, including genetic predisposition, living and working environments, and exposure to certain chemicals. Some products may be harmful for some patients but not others.

There are a number of commercial products that have been reported to induce vitiligo, and most of them contain phenols. Other chemicals and their derivatives that have been known to cause loss of skin color include:

  • p-phenylenediamine (also known as para-phenylene diamine or PPD) 
  • para-tertiary butylphenol (PTBP)
  • monobenzylether of hydroquinone (MBH) 

Industrial items with PPD or PTBP include permanent hair dyes, fabric and leather colorants, printing inks, motor oil additives, fiberglass products, plywood, masonry sealant, insecticides and commercial disinfectants. Medical items with PTBP include hearing aids, prosthesis and athletic tape. Skin lighting creams and soaps in certain countries may contain MBH in excessive concentrations and drive progressive skin depigmentation.

FAQOther Questions

  • Is there a special diet for vitiligo?

    In short, no.  Some people find that certain foods may worsen their vitiligo symptoms or that others may improve their skin condition. We found no scientific evidence that a sp...

  • Can a gluten-free diet help with vitiligo?

    It's very unlikely. We have specifically looked into claims that gluten-free diet may ease symptoms of vitiligo, or completely reverse it, and found no firm scientific evidence ...

  • How long does it take to treat vitiligo?

    Treatment results will vary by person and type of vitiligo. The rule of thumb is that you will need to allow at least 3 to 6 months before you begin to see results from any trea...