The first question most people ask is, “Why is my skin getting patchy?” The answer – vitiligo occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment, get out of whack. A variety of factors can prevent them from functioning or destroy them entirely. This results in white patches appearing on different parts of the body, including the face, hands, and other exposed areas. The exact cause of vitiligo is still unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition.
At Austin Clinic in Balgowlah, we have helped many people live their best life while living with vitiligo. In today’s article, our skin care guru’s talk about how you can keep vitiligo in the background of your life and not take over centerstage. It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
- Exploring professional treatment options
- Adopting effective skincare routines
- Maintaining emotional well-being
Professional Vitiligo Treatments at Austin Clinic
Austin Clinic in Balgowlah offers a range of skin treatments, including options that may help manage vitiligo. Following a comprehensive consultation, you will be given your skin diagnosis and offered options for treatment.
One popular option is Broadband Light Therapy. Studies show that this therapy can help slow or even stop the progression of active vitiligo. The treatment is well-tolerated and cost-effective too. It can also be combined with other treatments for skin health.
Other medical treatments include:
Topical corticosteroids to help restore pigment in some cases.
Calcineurin inhibitors to suppress the immune response that may be attacking melanocytes.
In severe cases, healthy pigmented skin can be transplanted to affected areas.
Skincare Routines for Managing Vitiligo
While vitiligo itself does not cause physical discomfort, proper skincare is important to help protect the skin and improve its appearance. Here are simple habits you can adopt to make living with vitiligo easier:
Double Down on Sun Protection: Since vitiligo-affected skin lacks melanin, it is more vulnerable to sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Be Kind to Your Skin: Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers that may irritate sensitive skin.
Prioritise Hydration, Inside and Out: Keep your skin hydrated by drinking water throughout the day and using fragrance-free moisturisers to prevent dryness.
Take Care: When possible, try to avoid trauma to your skin. Even something as minor as a scratch or modest burn can trigger new patches of vitiligo if you are already affected.
Like-Minded Individuals
“Adjusting to life with vitiligo can be challenging,” Dr Austin acknowledges. “Emotional resilience is the key to coping.” Here are some ways to maintain a positive mindset:
Connect with Support Groups: Talking to others who have vitiligo can provide comfort and encouragement.
Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding vitiligo can help you feel more confident when discussing it with others. It is also a powerful emotional up when you can help someone the way you, yourself, have been helped.
Practice Self-Love: Embrace your unique skin and focus on your strengths beyond appearance.
Seek Professional Help: If vitiligo affects your mental health, consider speaking with a therapist or counsellor.
Living with vitiligo is a journey of self-acceptance and care, but it is NOT a journey you have to make alone. The team at Austin Clinic want to be right there with you, taking one healing step after another.
