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Vitiligo Treatment Option 3: Adjunctive TherapiesVitiligo
Research Library: Adjunctive Therapies
The goal of treating vitiligo is to restore the function of the skin and to improve the patient’s appearance. Therapy for vitiligo takes a long time—it usually must be continued for 6 to 18 months. The choice of therapy depends on the number of white patches and how widespread they are and on the patient’s preference for treatment. Each patient responds differently to therapy, and a particular treatment may not work for ever yone. Current treatment options for vitiligo include medical, surgical, and adjunctive therapies (therapies that can be used along with surgical or medical treatments).
On this page: Adjunctive Therapies Sunscreens People who have vitiligo, particularly those with fair skin, should use a sunscreen that provides protection from both the UVA and UVB forms of ultraviolet light. Sunscreen helps protect the skin from sunburn and longterm damage. Sunscreen also minimizes tanning, which makes the contrast between normal and depigmented skin less noticeable. Cosmetics Some patients with vitiligo cover depigmented patches with stains, makeup, or selftanning lotions. These cosmetic products can be particularly effective for people whose vitiligo is limited to exposed areas of the body. Dermablend, Lydia O’Leary, Clinique, Fashion Flair, Vitadye, and Chromelin offer makeup or dyes that patients may find helpful for covering up depigmented patches. Counseling and Support Groups Many people with vitiligo find it helpful to get counseling from a mental health professional. People often find they can talk to their counselor about issues that are difficult to discuss with anyone else. A mental health counselor can also offer patients support and help in coping with vitiligo. In addition, it may be helpful to attend a vitiligo support group. The National Vitiligo Foundation - USA Research Updates: Free reports from top physicians on their latest findings regarding Vitiligo. Treatment Library: Variety of articles and brochures giving information, and research findings into causes and cures. Click Here For The National Vitiligo Foundation Vitiligo Society - UK The Vitiligo Society is the only organisation which offers support and understanding to people with vitiligo and their families in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. It also supports people anywhere in the world who approach us and ask for help. Click Here For Vitiligo Society Vitiligo Support International Vitiligo Support International is a 27,000-member community which provides treatment information, message boards & chat. It is a nonprofit, public benefit organization. Click Here For Vitiligo Support International
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