New Delhi: Vitiligo is a condition where the skin loses pigment in certain areas. In people with vitiligo, the affected patches of skin don’t have melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, which serves as the skin’s natural defense against the sun’s harmful rays. Without melanin, these areas are much more prone to sunburn and damage. The exact cause of vitiligo involves genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Kusumika Kanak, Consultant Dermatologist, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune, the expert explained what can be done for vitiligo management with respect to sun exposure.
“Seasonal changes in sunlight can also affect vitiligo. Some people with Vitiligo might see repigmentation during the summer when sun exposure is higher, while others may notice their condition worsening. The difference in appearance between normally pigmented skin and the depigmented patches can become more pronounced with sun exposure, leading to psychological and social distress,” said Dr Kanak.
“The impact of sun exposure on vitiligo varies widely among individuals. Skin type, geographic location, and medical history all influence how skin responds to sunlight. Sunlight exposure affects melanocytes in several ways. UV radiation can stimulate melanocyte activity, potentially aiding in repigmentation of vitiligo patches. Controlled exposure to UVB rays, under medical supervision, is sometimes used as a treatment to encourage repigmentation,” the expert added.
The relationship between sun exposure and vitiligo is critical. Unprotected sun exposure can lead to sunburns and further damage to sensitive skin areas. Sunburns can trigger inflammation that may exacerbate existing vitiligo patches. UV radiation may also trigger autoimmune responses, worsening vitiligo in susceptible individuals. Autoimmune reactions occur when the immune system attacks healthy melanocytes, contributing to depigmentation. In some cases, Phototherapy, exposing the skin to UV radiation in controlled conditions, is used to manage vitiligo. Narrowband UVB therapy has also shown promise in stimulating repigmentation by targeting affected areas with specific wavelengths of UV light.
Individuals managing vitiligo are advised to adopt sun protection strategies like:
Sunscreen: Using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) on all exposed skin areas, including those affected by vitiligo.
Protective Clothing: Wearing clothing that covers the skin, such as long sleeves, pants, and hats with wide brims, to minimise direct sun exposure.
Avoiding Peak Sun Hours: Limiting outdoor activities during peak sun hours (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM) when UV radiation is strongest.
Shade: Seeking shade under umbrellas, trees, or other structures to reduce direct exposure to sunlight.
Regular Dermatological Check-ups: Monitoring the skin condition with regular visits to a dermatologist to assess any changes and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
The relationship between sun exposure and vitiligo is critical. Unprotected sun exposure can lead to sunburns and further damage to sensitive skin areas. Sunburns can trigger inflammation that may exacerbate existing vitiligo patches. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
