Sun care for vitiligo patients

White patches of vitiligo lack the pigmentation that protects skin from harmful UV rays. Vitiligo patients must be extra careful in the sun, and take special precaution to protect their skin. Sun burn can lead to skin damage and skin cancer, and it can also worsen your vitiligo. Using a correct broad spectrum sunscreen daily, coupled with sun avoidance is very important.

Important fact on the sun and vitiligo:

Vitiligo sufferers do not have a protective mechanism called melanin
Melanin is what gives skin it’s colour, and protects us from UV
Vitiligo patients have a much higher risk of sunburn compared to normal skin
Sun burn can induce pain, blistering but it can worsen or spread your vitiligo
Vitiligo patients should use a broad spectrum sunscreen twice a day, as well as take extra precautions with UV filtered clothing and hats
Our clinic endorses the La Roche Posay range of sunscreens

Why is sun care important in vitiligo patients?

What is the best method of sun protection for vitiligo patients?

How is narrowband phototherapy different from UV from the sun?

What should I do if I receive sunburn in my areas of vitiligo?

Patient Reviews

"A combination of creams and light treatment and I nearly have my colour back.Extremely happy with the vitiligo management team at Westside."

H Sidu, Westlake

"Vitiligo treatments that finally work. I didn’t think treatment was possible until I saw my dermatologist"

G Kumar, Sumner Park