Depigmentation
Depigmentation might be a recommendation for adults who suffer from vitiligo which covers more than 50% of their bodies. A specialist paints a lotion on the normal skin during depigmentation to bleach the remaining color and make it a similar tone as the remaining depigmented skin. The doctors use a hydroquinone-based medication that needs a continuous application to avoid the skin from re-pigmenting. Hydroquinone can lead to certain side effects, such as:
- Itching
- Stinging
- Redness
Depigmentation is typically permanent and makes the skin with no protective barrier from the sun. Although, when the color returns (re-pigmentation) happen, it might differ from the original skin tone of a person. Moreover, the application of depigmentation treatments in certain areas of the skin can sometimes lead to the loss of pigmentation of the skin on other body areas. (4)