Supplementation of zinc and phenylalanine when used in conjunction with topical steroids or UV-B (ultraviolet B) treatment shows therapeutic effects on vitiligo due to their role in the melanin synthesis pathway.
Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid
This is why it is always recommended to take these two vitamins together in order to treat vitiligo. According to some scientific studies, a combination of vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation and sun exposure is a good strategy to regain natural skin color.
Some studies have shown that oral supplementation or topical treatment of Cu and Zn may improve the clinical symptoms of vitiligo [19,20]. Both increased and decreased serum levels of these trace elements in vitiligo patients have been reported [19,21–23].
Zinc has a role in the synthesis and release of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone in bovine. [41,45] Hence, zinc may be effective in melanogenesis in human via release of this hormone. ZAG regulates melanin production by normal and malignant melanocytes.
According to the clinical patterns of vitiligo, the mean serum zinc observed was 75.32±19.64 in vitiligo vulgaris, 70.45±21.23 in acrofacial vitiligo and 68.7±17.61 in segmental vitiligo (p-value=0.68).
Black/Red gram or Desi-chana (Chickpeas), Black dates, Red Radish, Beetroot and Carrot are helpful in Vitiligo and considered as Vitiligo diet. These are seen helpful in pigmentation process and helpful in coverage of white patches.
Research studies have demonstrated the positive effect of zinc on reducing hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanocyte stimulating factors. Melanocytes are cells responsible for production of dark pigment, melanin. Higher levels of melanin lead to darkening of skin, pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
To the best of our knowledge, vitamin D significantly affects melanocytes and keratinocytes. Studies suggest that vitamin D3 increases tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis in vitro [12], which may lead to repigmentation in vitiligo skin lesions.
No drug can stop the process of vitiligo — the loss of pigment cells (melanocytes). But some drugs, used alone, in combination or with light therapy, can help restore some color. Drugs that control inflammation. Applying a corticosteroid cream to affected skin might return color.
Topical steroids. Topical steroids come as a cream or ointment you apply to your skin. They can sometimes stop the spread of the white patches and may restore some of your original skin colour.
While it's not possible to cure or completely reverse vitiligo, a dermatologist can recommend treatments, like topical creams, light therapy, or natural treatments. There are also steps you can take to prevent vitiligo from getting worse.
Don't take zinc at the same time as iron or calcium supplements. A strong relationship exists between zinc and copper. Too much of one can cause a deficiency in the other. If you take zinc, including zinc in a multivitamin, you should also take copper.
Maintain healthy skin
Zinc is an important nutrient for the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help people with conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and ulcers.
It often takes 12 weeks before any improvement is seen. Long-term zinc supplementation requires 1–2 mg of copper per day to prevent copper deficiency.
Zinc sulphate is the zinc that is most widely used in skincare treatments. It is also the form of zinc that is most effective in cases of severe zinc-deficiency. This is the most recommended form of zinc for the treatment of acne, and is easily accessible within a myriad of products.
What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency? Zinc deficiency can result in skin changes that look like eczema at first. There may be cracks and a glazed appearance on the skin, often found around the mouth, nappy area and hands. The rash doesn't get better with moisturisers or steroid creams or lotions.
Vitamins can be used to lighten your skin and lighten dark spots. Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin.
Zinc contains antioxidants, which help in fighting with the free radicals present in our body and also effectively delays skin aging. Antioxidants help in making the skin youthful and glowy. Regular yet limited consumption of this essential mineral can also help in preventing acne, dullness, dryness in the skin.
What causes vitiligo? Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease. This type of disease develops when your immune system attacks part of your own body. If you have vitiligo, your immune system attacks cells in your body called melanocytes.