Vitiligo effects about 1-2% of the population worldwide. It is a chronic skin disorder that causes loss of pigment, resulting in irregular pale patches on the skin. It appears when the melanocytes, cells responsible for skin pigmentation, die or are unable to function anymore. The precise cause of vitiligo is not fully understood. Some evidence suggests that it is caused by a combination of auto-immune, genetic, and environmental factors. Vitiligo can begin at any age, though about fifty percent of people develop it before the age of twenty and affects mostly darker skins.
Most people after finding out they have vitiligo experience a range of feelings and emotions including shock, denial, anger, fear isolation, depression and finally acceptance. A lot of people can become overwhelmed by low self esteem and lack of confidence and actually stop having a social life. Clients often say how they can’t go swimming and do not look forward to sunshine anymore as the makeup applied to camouflage rubs off to reveal the light patches.
The medical camouflage procedure helps many people regain their confidence and really gives them a boost in life especially if the face and hands have been affected. The appearance of the vitiligo can be greatly improved by the correct blend of colours and the correct technique in applying the pigments in to the skin. A few colours of pigment may be used to create a realistic end result.
Procedure and Aftercare.
Before the procedure a numbing cream will be applied. This will make the procedure more comfortable and normal makes the patient feel at complete ease. Pre procedure advice will have been given to the patient and aftercare instructions will be explained and written guidance on aftercare will also be given to the client before they leave the clinic. A natural healing balm will be given and the area will have a light dressing on at the end.