Celebrate YOUR SKIN

PERFECT YOUR VITILIGO SKIN ROUTINE

- Words by CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

Vitiligo is a skin condition where pigment-forming cells stop working in certain areas, creating lighter patches that can appear anywhere on the body. While vitiligo isn't harmful, it can change how you approach skincare and makeup. There are dermatologist-approved ways to protect, soothe and enhance - never hide - what makes your skin unique.

Skin health first

The golden rule is sun protection. Without protective melanin, depigmented skin burns more easily, and sun exposure can make the contrast between patches and surrounding skin more noticeable.

As Miami-based dermatologist Dr Mariano Busso puts it: “We usually suggest sunscreens offering broad-spectrum protection, minimum SPF of 30 and water resistance.”

Broad-spectrum means it covers both UVA and UVB rays; water resistant because perspiration can 'wash' off sunscreen; and sunscreen should be worn daily and reapplied every two hours when outdoors.

Hats, UPF clothing and shade all count as bonus SPF. It must be reiterated that depigmented skin is extremely sun-sensitive, so treat protection as a nonnegotiable every time you go outside.

Being gentle with your skin is vital, too. Choose low-foaming, fragrance-free cleansers and keep moisture levels high with barrier-supporting ingredients (think ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid).

There are also numerous medical treatment options - from topical medicines and light therapy to newer therapies guided by a dermatologist.