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Treatment guideline
On the outside, severe sunburn, physical skin damage, prolonged contact with certain chemicals containing:
- p-phenylenediamine (also known as para-phenylene diamine or PPD)
- para-tertiary butylphenol (PTBP)
- monobenzylether of hydroquinone (MBH)
may induce or worsen vitiligo. 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.
On the inside, psychological stress is the most frequent trigger for vitiligo. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, delivery and menopause may also be the culprit, as can excessive pressure and friction from lingerie, shoes, or sporting equipment. Parasites and chronic gastritis that impair absorption of vital elements by the digestive system may also precipitate vitiligo.
FAQOther Questions
- What are risks of oral and topical corticosteroids?
Corticosteroid drugs (like hydrocortisone, and others) are often used for treating vitiligo. By mimicing the effects of hormones your body produces naturally in your adrenal gla...
- How can I explain vitiligo to my children?
Vitiligo can be confusing for children because it doesn’t resemble an "illness" in the typical sense. Choosing the right way to explain it depends on your child’s age and maturi...
- Vitiligo and Pregnancy
Pregnancy with vitiligo? The good news: vitiligo itself doesn’t make pregnancy unsafe. Most women stay stable (some even improve), though flares can pop up after birth — usually...
Though it is not always easy to treat vitiligo, there is much to be gained by clearly understanding the diagnosis, the future implications, treatment options and their outcomes.
Many people deal with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career.
Copyright (C) Bodolóczki JúliaBy taking a little time to fill in the anonymous questionnaire, you can help researchers better understand and fight vitiligo.