Treatment guidelineTriggers

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

  • 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 smoking affects vitiligo?

    Smoking is a common habit linked to numerous health risks, affecting multiple body systems and increasing various disease risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues....

  • What is the best therapy for localized vitiligo?

    Localized vitiligo, where the white patches are limited to one or a few areas of the body, can be managed with a few treatment approaches. The best therapy usually depends on th...