Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people whoโ€™ve been there
  • People who understand what youโ€™re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyVitiligoTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyVitiligoTeam Member asked a question ๐Ÿ’ญ
Maryland, MD

What kind of creams should i be using. I am a 24 year old female. I am trying to make my skin smoother while managing my vitiligo! $$

February 1, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyVitiligoTeam Member

OliviaNoland, hello and I hope you're doing well! I'm going well and enjoying my weekend in spite of the cold weather. First of all, when it comes to the skincare with people who live with vitiligo, I suggest going to an assigned state's certifed dermatologist who can share skin treatment options and address how vitiligo is affecting your overall health.
In response to you, I would like to share my personal skin wellness tips:
1) Protect your skin from the sun. Skin that has lost its color can sunburn more easily. Seek shade, wear sun-protective clothing, and apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by a hat or clothing. For more effective protection, select clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor โ€” or UPF number โ€” on the label. In addition, avoid tanning โ€” indoors and out. Tanning will not tan the areas that have lost color and can actually make your vitiligo more noticeable. It also increases your risk for skin cancer, sunburn, and premature skin aging.
2) Use makeup, self-tanner, or skin dyes if youโ€™d like to add color to your skin. If you have vitiligo, you do not need to even your skin tone. However, it is safe to do and may help you feel more comfortable and boost your self-esteem. Choose waterproof products and self-tanners that contain dihydroxyacetone.
3) Be careful with your skin. Any injuries to your skin, such as scrapes, cuts, burns, and even getting a tattoo, can cause new vitiligo patches to form on these areas of your body.
4) Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and try to reduce stress, which can trigger your vitiligo.
5) Take care of your mental health. Vitiligo can affect your emotional health. Getting counseling, joining a support group, and learning about vitiligo can help if you feel self-conscious or depressed. ๐Ÿ˜€

February 2, 2025
A MyVitiligoTeam Member

Hello OliviaNoland, people who have vitiligo need to prioritize sun protection, moisturizing, and using mild cleansers, while also avoiding harsh chemicals and irritants. There is a need to consult with a dermatologist for personalized treatment options like topical creams or light therapy is also recommended.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1) Sun Protection:
Vitiligo patches are more susceptible to sunburn due to the lack of melanin, so daily sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is crucial.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
2) Seek shade:
Minimize sun exposure during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm) and seek shade whenever possible.
3) Avoid tanning beds:
Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and can worsen vitiligo.
4) Moisturizing:
Moisturize regularly to keep the skin supple and prevent dryness, which can make vitiligo patches more noticeable. Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturizers rich in ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.
Moisturize immediately after cleansing, while the skin is still slightly damp, to lock in moisture.
5) Cleansing:
Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid irritation and maintain the skin's natural barrier.
Avoid harsh soaps, harsh soaps can strip the skin of essential oils, leading to dryness and potential flare-ups.
6) Avoid irritants:
Steer clear of products containing harsh chemicals or irritants that can worsen vitiligo.
7) Consider camouflage:
Makeup or self-tanners can help conceal vitiligo patches.
Consult a dermatologist:
8) Dermatologists can recommend appropriate treatments, such as topical steroids, light therapy, or even surgical options, and provide personalized advice. Avoid trauma to the skin, like tattoos, as it can trigger new vitiligo patches.
9) Support your immune system:
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and stress management techniques, as vitiligo is an autoimmune condition.
10) Seek support:
Connect with support groups or individuals who have vitiligo for emotional support and practical advice.
I hope this list will help you with your skin care. ๐Ÿ˜€

June 23, 2025
A MyVitiligoTeam Member

I ve found using SPF 100 sunblock helps, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.

June 22, 2025
A MyVitiligoTeam Member

Castor oil when going to bed. Don't go out with it on or you will burn.
W
Then apply sunblock before going out.
Castor oil is mother nature's gift to mankind.

March 16, 2025
A MyVitiligoTeam Member

Thanks for sharing the needed info

February 4, 2025

Related Questions

View All
A MyVitiligoTeam Member asked a question in Makeup & Skincare Tips group ๐Ÿ’ญ
San Francisco, CA

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In