I think that I may have vitiligo. I have white spots, all different size and shapes. I've always had them, but now they seem to be spreading. What can be done about this? Could this be the cause of stinging and burning that I feel on my skin? Is there any way to heal the burning and stinging, and any cure for vitiligo?

A.

Vitiligo is an acquired absence of the cells that produce the skin pigment melanin. The skin in the affected areas is ivory white and the hair in the areas is also white. It can cause just a spot or two or be widespread over the body and it tends to progress with time. The areas sunburn easily. Folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin C can be helpful in repigmenting the affected areas, as are L-phenylalanine, B vitamins and PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid).

Depigmentation of the skin can also follow inflammatory conditions and skin infections. Repigmentation usually occurs spontaneously. Tinea versicolor can also result in white lesions on the skin. Itching may occur and the lesions may have fine scaling. It is caused by a skin infection with the fungus Pityrosporon orbiculare. Tinea versicolor is treated with either a selenium sulfide shampoo, a sodium thiosulfite solution or a shampoo with sulfur and salicylic acid. It can take several months for repigmentation. Supporting the immune system with good diet and nutritional and herbal supplements can help prevent recurrence.

I would recommend a visit to a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis, so that you can select the appropriate treatment.

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