Before we dive into this week’s topic, DOC2US would like to remind our readers the importance of loving and appreciating yourself. As quoted from Zoe Kravit, beauty is when you can appreciate yourself. When you love yourself, that’s when you’re most beautiful.
Image Credit: Quotestoenjoy.com
Introduction to Vitiligo
Did you know that there are many famous people such as Winnie Harlow, Michael Jackson, Amitabh Bacchan, Dean Edwards and many more who have suffered from vitiligo? Despite their condition, they have never backed down and continued to shine brightly in the spotlight! What is vitiligo and the causes of it? What is their secret of success and self-confidence? Read more below to find out more!
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What is vitiligo?
Vitiligo, also known as leucoderma, is a long-term skin condition characterized by loss of melanin in regions of the skin. The skin darkening pigment melanin is produced by melanocytes in your skin and gives your skin its color. Melanin also functions to protect your skin by absorbing damaging UV (ultraviolet) rays. As there are not enough melanocytes in people with vitiligo, this causes lighter or white patches to develop on their affected skin. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body, and may also affect the hair and inside of the mouth and nose.
Types of vitiligo
There are 2 types of vitiligo which are non-segmental vitiligo and segmental vitiligo. The most prevalent type of vitiligo is non-segmental vitiligo, which affects an average of 9 out of 10 people. The difference between both types is that non-segmental vitiligo (aka generalized vitiligo) manifests itself as symmetrical white spots on both sides of the body, while segmental vitiligo (aka localized vitiligo) only affects one section of your body.
Risk factors of vitiligo
Vitiligo is not an infectious disease, you cannot catch it from someone who has it. Non-segmental vitiligo is thought to be an autoimmune condition, which is when the immune system attacks your body’s health cells and tissues (in this case your melanocytes), instead of attacking foreign cells including viruses in your body. If you have a family history of vitiligo and autoimmune conditions, or if you have melanoma (a type of skin cancer) or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system), you may be at increased risk of vitiligo. Vitiligo may also be triggered by stressful events such as childbirth, skin damage (severe sunburns or cuts), or exposure to certain chemicals.
Are there any available treatments for vitiligo?
Symptoms of vitiligo are permanent, but there are treatment options that can help reduce the appearance. Skin camouflage lotion can be used to conceal the small patches. Steroid creams can also be used to restore some pigment to the skin, but it cannot be used for long term due to side effects including stretch marks and skin thinning. If steroid creams are ineffective, phototherapy (light treatment) may be utilized. Although therapy can help restore your skin's color, the impact usually does not stay. Your skin will become more vulnerable to sunburn due to a lack of melanin, thus it is advisable to apply strong sunscreen.
Embodying Self Confidence
People with vitiligo often have low self esteem and have fear to show their body’s imperfection. It’s important to love yourself and love who you are despite the fact that you may be different from others.
Quotes from successful influencers/ celebrities with vitiligo:
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The secret to increasing your self-esteem is not to seek acceptance from others. Celebrate who you are and what makes you unique. Make yourself the center of attention so that people can see you in all of your glory. When you embrace yourself, others will as well.
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Winnie Harlow (Canadian fashion model)
Image Credits: Glamour
Never be afraid to be a poppy in a field of daffodils
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Michaela Deprince (American ballet star)
Image Credit: Chitwoodskating.com
Vitiligo is a blessing in disguise. It makes you a better person when you accept your own imperfections and those of others.
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Christina Chitwood (former American ice dancer)
Ways to practice body positivity:
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Generate self-love by speaking it out and often, even when it's difficult to be grateful for our bodies
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Exercise often and eating a healthy diet
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Be kind to others and give compliments to others freely
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Surround yourself with positivity, cut out negative self talks
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Focus on the qualities you admire about yourself
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Stop comparing yourself to others
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Having a “me” time by doing something nice for yourself! (e.g. taking a bubble bath, doing a massage)
Medically reviewed by Ashwini Nair, MB BCh BAO.
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