Vitiligo is one of the chronic skin diseases that affect a not small percentage of women, and appears in the form of white spots as a result of the loss of the skin's natural pigment, and although it does not pose a direct danger to physical health and is not contagious to others, but its psychological and social effect may be deep.
For the sudden change in skin color may provoke a woman's worry and affect her self-confidence and her image in front of others. Also, the pressures of society and the looks of others may add an extra burden on those who suffer from it. And awareness of the nature of the disease and understanding its causes and its psychological effect helps women to coexist better and gives them the strength to face its daily challenges.
What is vitiligo?
Vitiligo is:
- A skin disease resulting from the loss of cells producing melanin pigment.
- It is characterized by the appearance of white spots of varying sizes in different places in the body.
- It may affect the face,hands, feet, or scalp.
- It does not cause pain but it affects the appearance clearly.
Some reasons that lead to women's infection with vitiligo
These reasons may lead to infection with the disease:
- A defect in the immune system leads to the destruction of pigment cells.
- Genetic factors raise the probability of infection among family members.
- Psychological pressures or severe emotions may be a triggering factor.
- Skin injuries or strong sunburns may precede its appearance.
Is vitiligo a contagious disease?
Vitiligo is not transmitted by touch or by using shared personal items, for it is a non-contagious disease at all, and realizing this fact reduces the social stigma associated with the disease and gives the woman greater freedom in dealing with her surroundings without worry or fear of the rejection of others.
The psychological impact of vitiligo on women
The disease may affect some women psychologically:
- Weak self-confidence as a result of the noticeable change in appearance.
- Increased social anxiety and difficulty integrating in some situations.
- The possibility of infection with depression or continuous sadness.
- A negative effect on marital or social relationships.
- The continuous need for support and encouragement from family and friends.
The role of society in supporting the affected woman
Society must support women infected with the disease as follows:
- Spreading awareness that vitiligo is a non-contagious disease.
- Avoiding bullying or negative comments about the affected person's appearance.
- Encouraging women to accept themselves and enhancing self-confidence.
- Providing dialogue platforms or psychological support groups.
Methods of treating vitiligo for women
There are methods that help in alleviating the symptoms and restoring part of the skin color, among them:
- Topical creams.
- Laser therapy.
- Ultraviolet radiation sessions or using cosmetic products to unify skin color.
- Results differ from one woman to another,and often need follow-up for long periods.
The most important tips for women for coexisting with vitiligo
Some tips to facilitate dealing with vitiligo disease:
- Using sunscreen regularly to protect the sensitive skin.
- Relying on a healthy diet that strengthens immunity.
- Avoiding psychological pressures as much as possible.
- Practicing activities that enhance confidence like sports or hobbies.
- Reviewing the doctor periodically to follow up on the condition.
The importance of psychological support and behavioral therapy
Dealing with vitiligo requires, alongside dermal treatment, regular psychological support. Cognitive behavioral therapy sessions help the woman to face the anxiety and depression accompanying the disease. Also, joining support groups that include other affected women alleviates the feeling of loneliness and gives the woman a feeling of acceptance and security.
The article summary
Vitiligo is a skin disease resulting from the loss of melanin pigment, and appears in the form of white spots in different areas of the skin. And although it is not contagious and does not represent a danger to physical health, except that its psychological effect on the woman may be deep, as it weakens her self-confidence and increases her feeling of isolation.
Social pressures and bullying may exacerbate the condition, while family and community support helps improve adaptation. And the available treatments do not offer a final solution but they help in improving appearance and reducing suffering. Also, attention to diet and protection from the sun enhance prevention.
Psychological support and behavioral therapy have an essential role in facing anxiety and depression. And in the end, vitiligo is a difficult experience, but awareness, acceptance, and support can transform this experience into an internal strength and greater self-confidence.