VITILIGO & SUN: ARE THEY COMPATIBLE?

WHAT SCIENCE TEACHES US

Usually, the natural pigmentation of the skin plays a protective role against the effects of UV rays, thanks to the presence of melanocytes, the cells responsible for the production of melanin. Their absence in the depigmented areas of vitiligo can make the skin more vulnerable to the aggressions of the sun.

However, recent scientific advances show that, in a well-defined setting, exposure to UV rays – whether natural or from phototherapy – could help mitigate certain effects of vitiligo.

However, sun exposure cannot be taken lightly: it must be gradual and accompanied by appropriate protective measures to avoid any risk to the skin.

PEOPLE WITH VITILIGO DO NOT HAVE AN INCREASED RISK OF SKIN CANCER

Vitiligo is a disease that causes the immune system to attack melanocytes (cells responsible for skin colour). As a result, the melanocytes disappear, resulting in the appearance of these white spots with well-defined edges. It is important to know that, generally, the more pigmented the skin is, the more it is naturally protected against the sun's rays. The presence of melanocytes is therefore important in relation to UV rays. However, contrary to what one might think, the sun could be an ally in reducing the effects of vitiligo in a very specific context! 

Recently, advances in science and medical experimentation have confirmed the beneficial effect of natural UV rays from the sun and those of artificial UV rays (phototherapy) in alleviating the symptoms of the disease in those affected.*

Natural ultraviolet rays from the sun are a treatment method that must be supervised by a medical prescription, including advice on exposure and protection. It is important to avoid prolonged exposure from the beginning. Note that sunburn has harmful effects on melanocytes and increases the risk of skin cancer.

Furthermore, studies have shown that vitiligo does not increase the risk of developing melanoma, compared to the general population. But this should not lead to neglecting normal protection, depending on skin type, against sun risks.

* Teulings HE, Overkamp M, Ceylan E, Nieuweboer-Krobotova L, Bos JD, Nijsten T, Wolkerstorfer AW, Luiten RM, van der Veen JP. Decreased risk of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer in patients with vitiligo: a survey among 1307 patients and their partners. Br J Dermatol. 2013

VITILIGO TREATMENTS TO TREAT THE GROWING SKIN DEPIGMENTATION

Medical makeup offered by recognized professionals (check out Changing Faces) can mask depigmented areas. But as soon as the patient wishes to undertake a treatment protocol by a dermatologist, certain treatments are now recognized to improve, repigment, and relieve the patient suffering from vitiligo. 

Vitiligo can be treated with creams applied to the lesions or physical treatments using UV radiation. Creams are prescribed as a first-line treatment, most often combined with phototherapy. UVB radiation is offered in a cabin or by home UV lamp or excimer laser. Treatments can take between 6 and 24 months to produce satisfactory results, and repigmentation varies depending on the location of the lesions. The areas that respond best are those on the face, while those affecting the hands and feet are the most difficult to repigment. 

Additionally, GliSODin is an additional natural solution that can also be used to help reduce the effects of oxidative stress on the skin, which is partly responsible for the lesions. In addition, to reduce the appearance of white spots, GliSODin has developed the dietary supplement GliSODin V-SOD . The patented formula contains Melon SOD combined with a wheat protein that supports depigmented skin combined with UV rays to reduce the visibility of white spots on the skin.

APPLYING SUNSCREEN IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED

Of course, while the sun is not to be avoided, and is even beneficial for people suffering from vitiligo, a framework must be applied and protection rules must be respected.

Therefore, sun exposure should be done gradually, with increasing exposure times, until the white patches of vitiligo turn pink. This should generally be done over short and controlled periods. Talk to your doctor and dermatologist before undertaking this type of action.

It is important to remember that controlled exposures must be carried out in accordance with national recommendations on the sun.