Nourishing Your Skin and Body: The Role of Diet in Vitiligo Management
Vitiligo, a skin condition characterized by the loss of skin pigment, can have a significant impact on a person’s appearance and self-esteem. While there’s no definitive cure for vitiligo, there are various treatment approaches to manage its effects, including lifestyle changes. One such aspect is diet. In this blog, we’ll explore whether diet restrictions are necessary for vitiligo management, shedding light on the facts and figures surrounding this topic.
Understanding Vitiligo
Vitiligo occurs when the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment, are destroyed. This leads to the development of white patches on the skin, which can appear on various parts of the body. According to the World Health Organization, vitiligo affects around 0.5% to 2% of the global population, irrespective of gender, race or ethnicity.
Diet and Vitiligo: Is There a Connection?
While diet alone cannot cure vitiligo, certain foods and nutrients might play a role in supporting skin health and potentially slowing the progression of the condition. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, as the relationship between diet and vitiligo is complex and varies from person to person.
  1. Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Some research suggests that antioxidants, which protect cells from damage, may be beneficial for individuals with vitiligo. Foods like berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and nuts are rich in antioxidants and can be included in a balanced diet.
  1. Vitamin Supplementation: Vitamins, particularly vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin B12, have been studied for their potential role in vitiligo management. Consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine if supplementation is necessary.
  1. Gluten and Dairy Some individuals with vitiligo choose to avoid gluten and dairy products due to concerns about autoimmune reactions. However, scientific evidence supporting strict dietary restrictions for all vitiligo patients is limited.
  1. Avoiding Triggers: In some cases, certain foods might trigger or exacerbate autoimmune responses. Keeping a food diary and noting any correlations between diet and symptom flare-ups can help identify potential triggers.
  1. Balanced Nutrition: Regardless of vitiligo, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports overall health, including skin health.
Consulting a Healthcare Professional
It’s important to emphasize that any dietary changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional, especially for those with vitiligo. Dermatologists and registered dietitians can provide personalized recommendations based on individual needs, medical history, and current health status.
Using effective topical treatments like Verdura mela pro cream and Verdura mela gain cream can help achieve an even toned skin Verdura Mela pro creamEnhances UV absorption – A necessity in Vitiligo, Psoriasis and Vitamin D deficiencies  Formulated from the extracts of Psoralea corylifolia that is rich in ‘Psoralen’ and is proven to enhance the UV absorption in skin.Psoralen being used in natural form is absolutely safe for long term use.
Verdura Mela gain cream Blend of herbal ingredients – Effectively enhances pigmentation in vitiligo A carefully formulated cream for vitiligo with herbal actives and sun protective agents i.e.,Wrightia tinctoria, Indigofera tinctoria, Eclipta alba, Psoralea corylifolia, Emblica officinalis
Along with calamine, bentonite and zinc oxide that offer dual benefits of restoration of pigmentation and sun protection.
While diet alone cannot cure vitiligo, it might play a role in supporting skin health and managing the condition’s effects. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods, considering vitamin supplementation, and being mindful of potential triggers are steps that can be taken. However, it’s crucial to consult healthcare professionals before making any significant dietary changes. Remember, managing vitiligo requires a holistic approach that includes medical treatment, self-care, and a supportive lifestyle.

Do you want to know how UV radiation helps in re-pigmentation in vitiligo continue reading to know more………..

 What is vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, characterized by the loss of melanin pigmentation in certain areas of the skin. This loss of pigmentation can be socially and psychologically distressing, and many people with vitiligo seek treatments to restore pigmentation to their skin.

What are the types of Vitiligo?  

Generalized vitiligo–  The most common type which appears all over the body.

Segmental vitiligo– affects only one side of the body and typically stops progressing after a year or two.

Focal vitiligo is characterized by depigmentation in a single spot that does not spread to other areas.

Trichome vitiligo is a unique type in which various degrees of discoloration can be seen, with a robust depigmented area followed by a lighter zone and then the natural skin tone.

Universal vitiligo is a rare form in which at least 80% of the body surface is affected.

Acrofacial vitiligo on the other hand, affects the skin around body openings, such as the eyes, nose, ears, hands, and face.

Risk factors of vitiligo:

Some of the risk factors for vitiligo include having a family history of the condition, having another autoimmune disorder, experiencing sunburn or other skin trauma, and having a melanoma or other type of skin cancer.

Complications of vitiligo:

While vitiligo is not harmful, it can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. People with vitiligo may experience social stigma, discrimination, and psychological distress.

Symptoms of vitiligo:

The primary symptom of vitiligo is the appearance of white patches on the skin, which may be accompanied by premature graying of hair on the scalp, beard, eyebrows, or eyelashes. These patches may appear on any part of the body, including the face, hands, feet, arms, and legs. The patches are usually more noticeable in people with darker skin tones.

Treatment options for vitiligo:

There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are several treatment options available that can help reduce the appearance of white patches on the skin.

Among many treatment modalities available for use in vitiligo, those using light therapy, and in particular ultraviolet (UV) light, are some of the most effective treatments. UV-based therapy includes phototherapy (narrowband UVB), photo chemotherapy (psoralens with UVA), and targeted phototherapy (excimer laser and excimer lamp). In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind how UV radiation influences re-pigmentation in vitiligo.

UV RADIATION & VITILIGO

Ultra Violet (UV) radiation, which is a type of electromagnetic radiation, can be classified into three different types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC is filtered out by the ozone layer, so it doesn’t reach the earth’s surface. UVA and UVB, however, can both penetrate the skin, and they play different roles in the repigmentation of vitiligo.

UVA radiation is able to penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB radiation. It has been shown to stimulate the activity of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, in both normal skin and vitiligo-affected skin. UVA radiation can also activate a process called photo oxidation, which leads to the production of free radicals that can help to stimulate melanocyte activity.

UVB radiation, on the other hand, is not able to penetrate as deeply into the skin as UVA radiation. It primarily affects the outer layers of the skin. UVB radiation has been shown to be more effective than UVA radiation in inducing re-pigmentation in vitiligo. It does this by directly stimulating the melanocytes to produce more melanin. UVB radiation also has an immunomodulatory effect, which means that it can help to regulate the immune system’s response to melanocytes.

Both UVA and UVB radiation can be used to treat vitiligo, and there are different ways to deliver these types of radiation to the skin. One way is through the use of a light box, which emits UVA or UVB radiation to the skin. Another way is through the use of topical psoralen, a drug that sensitizes the skin to UVA radiation. This is known as PUVA therapy.

What is PUVA therapy?

PUVA is the acronym for Psoralen + ultraviolet light A. PUVA is a type of phototherapy. It was first introduced in 1974 by Parish and has been used for the treatment of psoriasis and widespread recalcitrant vitiligo in adults. PUVA has been shown to be effective, but has several limitations such as the potential for nausea and vomiting, the need for ocular and skin photo protection, and the risk of severe and painful blisters.

Medications: Topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and other medications can be used to reduce inflammation and promote repigmentation.

Surgery: Skin grafting, blister grafting, and micropigmentation are surgical options that can be used to restore pigmentation to the affected areas.

Verdura mela pro the best vitiligo treatment cream is a natural psoralen that acts as a ‘step up transformer’ to entrap the goodness of sun light and UV radiation to augment the success of Vitiligo and Psoriasis treatments. It can be used in SUN / PUVA therapy as it Increases the susceptibility of skin to U.V rays and Kindles genetic memory of the skin to produce melanin in Vitiligo and is Proven to be hypoallergenic and safe for long term use (Skin irritation study in human volunteers)

 

UV radiation plays a key role in the re-pigmentation of vitiligo. UVA radiation stimulates melanocyte activity through photo oxidation, while UVB radiation directly stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin. Both types of radiation can be used to treat vitiligo, and there are different ways to deliver them to the skin. If you have vitiligo and are considering UV radiation therapy, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your dermatologist to determine if it’s the right treatment for you.

 

 

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that results in the loss of pigmentation in various parts of the body. The cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the skin.

Re-pigmentation is the process of restoring pigment to the skin in areas affected by vitiligo. It can occur spontaneously or with the help of various treatment options. In this blog, we will explore how re-pigmentation happens in vitiligo.

Spontaneous Re-pigmentation

Spontaneous re-pigmentation refers to the natural restoration of pigment in areas affected by vitiligo without any medical intervention. This can happen in some cases, although it is rare. Spontaneous re-pigmentation is more likely to occur in individuals with focal or segmental vitiligo, which affects a limited area of the body.

The exact mechanism of spontaneous re-pigmentation is not fully understood. It is believed to occur due to the migration of melanocytes from adjacent pigmented areas into the depigmented areas. Melanocytes are the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. The migration of melanocytes is thought to be triggered by a variety of factors, including UV radiation, trauma to the skin, and inflammation.

Treatment-Induced Re-pigmentation

Treatment options for vitiligo aim to stimulate re-pigmentation in depigmented areas of the skin. Some of the commonly used treatments for re-pigmentation include:

Topical corticosteroids – Topical corticosteroids are a common treatment for vitiligo. They work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response that is responsible for destroying melanocytes. Topical corticosteroids are most effective in treating small areas of depigmentation.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors – Topical calcineurin inhibitors are another type of medication used to treat vitiligo. They work by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation in the skin. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are effective in treating areas of depigmentation that are resistant to topical corticosteroids.

Phototherapy – Phototherapy involves exposing the affected skin to ultraviolet light. This can be done using a narrowband UVB lamp or a PUVA lamp, which uses UVA light in combination with a psoralen medication. Phototherapy works by stimulating melanocyte production and reducing inflammation in the skin.

Excimer laser – Excimer laser treatment involves using a laser to deliver targeted UVB light to the affected areas of the skin. This treatment is effective in treating small areas of depigmentation.

Surgical treatment – Surgical treatment for vitiligo involves grafting healthy skin from one area of the body onto the depigmented areas. This can be done using various techniques, including punch grafting, suction blister grafting, and split-thickness skin grafting.

The exact mechanism of re-pigmentation induced by these treatments is not fully understood. It is believed that these treatments work by stimulating the migration and proliferation of melanocytes from adjacent pigmented areas of the skin into the depigmented areas. These treatments may also stimulate the production of melanocyte-stimulating hormones, which can help to increase melanocyte production.

In conclusion, re-pigmentation in vitiligo can occur spontaneously or with the help of various treatment options. Spontaneous re-pigmentation is rare and more likely to occur in individuals with focal or segmental vitiligo. Treatment options for re-pigmentation include topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, excimer laser, and surgical treatment. These treatments work by stimulating the migration and proliferation of melanocytes into the depigmented areas of skin. Verdura presents two potential products which includes Verdura mela pro the best vitiligo treatment cream & verdura mela gain cream for vitiligo. Verdura mela pro cream can be used as a pre – treatment product for faster re- pigmentation. Apply Verdura mela pro cream and expose to sun light for 5 minutes in morning and wash off. Then apply Verdura mela gain cream on the required areas.

 

Sun is one of the most important sources of natural light and vitamin D. The role of sunlight in treating skin conditions, including vitiligo, has been well documented. Vitiligo is a skin condition that results in the loss of pigmentation, causing white patches to appear on the skin.

Sunlight can help to restore the pigmentation in vitiligo by triggering the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin. This is because ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can stimulate the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, to produce more pigment.

Exposure to sunlight can be done in two ways – either by natural sunlight or artificial UV light sources. The most commonly used artificial UV light source is a UVB phototherapy lamp, which emits UVB rays similar to those found in natural sunlight.

It is important to note that excessive exposure to UV light can also be harmful and can increase the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when using sunlight or artificial UV light as a treatment for vitiligo.

A dermatologist should be consulted before starting any form of phototherapy. They will be able to advise on the best type of light therapy, the duration of exposure and the precautions that need to be taken.

In conclusion, sunlight plays an important role in treating vitiligo. However, it is important to be cautious when exposing the skin to UV light and to seek advice from a dermatologist before starting any form of phototherapy.

 

Verdura range of specialty cosmetics brings you Verdura mela pro cream which is a natural psoralen, that serves as an amplifier for the effectiveness of treatments for Vitiligo and Psoriasis. This cream acts as a conduit, capturing the benefits of sunlight and UV radiation to enhance the success of these treatments.

 

Benefits of Verdura mela pro cream

  • Increases the susceptibility of skin to U.V rays
  • Kindles genetic memory of the skin to produce melanin in Vitiligo
  • Prevents skin cells multiplication in psoriatic conditions

Proven to be hypoallergenic and safe for long term use (Skin irritation study in human volunteers

What Exactly Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition in which skin cells proliferate up to ten times faster than usual. This causes the skin to develop rough red patches covered in white scales. They can form everywhere, but mostly they appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

Psoriasis often manifests itself in early adulthood. Most people are only affected in a few areas. In severe instances, psoriasis may cover large parts of the body. The patches can heal and reappear throughout a person’s life.

Symptoms

Red skin plaques, typically coated in silver-colored scales. These plaques can be itchy and painful and can crack and bleed. Plaques will expand and combine in extreme situations, covering large areas.

You may observe discoloration and pitting of the fingernails and toenails. Nails can also crumble or separate from the nail bed. Plaques of scales or crust are formed on the scalp.

Psoriasis: What Causes It?

Psoriasis can be hereditary or auto-immune in nature, with the immune system causing inflammation and enabling new skin cells to develop too fast. Skin cells are normally renewed every 10 to 30 days. But in psoriasis, new cells proliferate every 3 to 4 days. The silver scales are formed due to the accumulation of old cells being replaced by new ones.

Areas of the body  affected

Plaque psoriasis is the most prevalent disease form, affecting 80 to 85% of individuals. The trunk, elbows, knees, umbilicus (navel), scalp, ears, hands, and feet are frequently affected by this type. Psoriatic arthritis affects around one-third of patients and might manifest as joint pain, redness, swelling, a swollen finger, nail abnormalities, or uveitis (eye inflammation).

As a common skin disease, psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, and complex genetic disorder that affects 2% of the world population. Psoriatic skin has symptoms of inflammation and raised scaly lesions. Three different cellular alteration occur in psoriatic involved skin, which are the abnormal differentiation of keratinocytes, hyper-proliferation of keratinocytes, and infiltration of immune cells.

6 Tips for Psoriasis Skin Care

 1.Maintain Your Skin’s Hydration

It’s one of the most powerful but simple treatments for inflamed skin. It can aid in the healing of your skin by reducing dryness, irritation, redness, soreness, and scaling.Depending on how dry your skin is, choose a moisturizer. Ointments are thick, heavy, and effective in retaining moisture. Lotions are thinner and more easily absorbed.After taking a bath or shower, carefully pat on the lotion. Reapply as needed throughout the day and whenever you change your clothes. On chilly or dry days, use extra.

2.Warm Baths Can Help You Relax

A daily warm bath using a mild soap can help soothe itchy spots and remove dry skin.Take 15 minutes to soak in the warm water. Hot temperatures and harsh soaps can be hard on skin that’s already sensitive. Try not to rub your skin with the towel as you dry off. Instead, gently pat it dry. The rubbing action can make sores worse and even cause new ones. Apply immediately with a moisturizer If you don’t have time for a bath, you can still put a wet towel or cold compress on the trouble spot.

3.Heal With Sunlight

The ultraviolet (UV) light in sunlight can slow the growth of skin cells, so small doses of sunlight can be a good way to soothe, improve, and even heal psoriasis lesions.

4.Be free of stress.

Itching and psoriasis may both get worse under stress. Some individuals even link their initial breakout to a highly stressful situation. By reducing your anxiety, you might ease symptoms.

Stress may be reduced in a variety of ways. Create a network of family and friends for support. Consider what matters most to you, then make time for it. Deep breathing, yoga, and meditation are beneficial. Even a lengthy stroll across the neighborhood might help you unwind.

5.Go Easy on Yourself. 

Avoid using harsh products like deodorant soaps, lotions with alcohol, acids (glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acid), and even certain laundry soaps. These could irritate your delicate skin. Check the fabric’s texture before purchasing any clothing. Ensure that they are cozy and silky. Avoid mohair and wool. They may aggravate skin that is already inflammatory.

6. Avoid Scratching and Picking

There is no denying that you want to scratch when you are itchy. Scratching, however, can rip your skin open, allowing microorganisms that cause infections to enter. It could cause previously undetectable sores to emerge. Keep your nails short and try to take medications if the itching is worse.

Achieve friendship between psoriasis and Sun

Psoriasis is multi-organ level, progressive autoimmune disorder of the skin where the skill cell turnover time reduces, resulting in the formation of the progeny cells that are dissimilar, less identical and carry less to no functional benefit to the skin. Since the origin or the exact trigger of the disease is not clearly understood, regaining the cell cycle time is one of the treat strategies adopted widely to achieve symptom free state and thereby the barrier function of the skin can be restored.
Among the various therapeutic agents that can be used for the above treatment benefit, the less adopted and less followed best remedial measure for the above medical benefit is sun exposure. The question of sun exposure always comes with certain limitations as all those who live in high sun exposure area not going to suffer from Psoriasis greatly and therefore the areas where sun exposure is least will find it difficult to follow the above. Further how long one must expose to really benefit is also under clout as UVB and UVA rays are only going to impact such benefit. Prolonged exposure to sun is not possible due to practical reason and all the more, the affect parts of the body are quite private, sun exposure is not that easy.

vitiligo
Verdura melapro cream is nothing but a natural, herbal based step-up transformer. The photo-amplifying agent – Psoralen would instantaneously maximize the effect of solar exposure several fold, reduce the time required for exposure under normal situation and would allow the sun exposure to fragment the shortened cell cycle time. The psoriatic patients by using Verdura Melapro can trigger the cellular response positively and thereby the subsequent treatment would offer best treatment response in short time.

Those who feel ‘paradise lost’ need not worry too much about the loss of paradise, the paradise can be regained easily with Verdura Melagain cream.   The phrase ‘paradise’ herein refers to loss of skin pigment due to the autoimmune disease called Vitiligo which is popularly referred as leukoderma.  The achromic skin devoid of the pigment melanin appear as island lesion or extensive disfigured lesion definitely would affect the social and self-esteem of the sufferer.  Medically such discolouration of skin may not bring any physical suffering but indeed would cause suffering to the mind.

The disease Vitiligo is often referred as an acquired disease because even through physical insult to our skin, the disease can be caused where the pigment producing cells of the skin loses their ability to produce the pigment to impart the colour.  Due to autoimmune etiology, any amount of efforts to regain the lost out pigment may result in vain as the erosion of melanocytes over dominate the effect of the medicine that we often use.  Therefore, the treatment strategy must address the underlying cause than how to achieve or regain the skin colour.

The allopathic system appears to have not fully understood the science of Vitiligo as much as AYUSH and therefore the allopathic system often approaches the treatment with steroids and other similar type of drugs which may offer some remedy initially but would never cure that the patient deserves or desire.

We, Dr.JRK’s Research and Pharmaceuticals Pvt., Ltd., Chennai has done huge body of research for ages on Vitiligo and AYUSH medicine and out of our intense laboratory, pre-clinical and clinical research, have brought out Verdura Melagain cream for the treatment of vitiligo.  The product is quite unique as it promotes the enzyme that is responsible for pigmentogenesis called tyrosinase, strengthen the melanocytes, increase the dendritic property, chemo attracts melanocyte-keratinocyte hobnobbing so that transfer of the melanin takes place well, promote the melanin production both at pre- and post-transcription level beside offering the much needed sun protection to the skin.

Vitiligo patients need not hereon see the treatment as oasis, Verdura Melagain cream is not just a drug, but is true science with its legs deep in our tradition, the skin could easily respect, recognize, accept and reciprocate.   The product is not just a hope, it is a definite solution for the skin and indeed the paradise gainer to the sufferer.   To know more about the product and research visit our website or correspond with us.

Psoralens are medicines made from plants. They make your skin more sensitive to light. This allows the deeply penetrating UVA band of light to work on the skin.

Mechanism of action

Psoralens boost the amount of ultraviolet light your skin absorbs. This lets the light into your skin. The ultraviolet radiation helps treat severe skin diseases like psoriasis, vitiligo and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a type of cancer.

Psoralens affect your DNA to stop cell growth in one of two ways. One group intercalates, or weaves itself into, DNA strands after your skin is exposed to ultraviolet light. This group includes 5-methoxypsoralen and 8-methoxypsoralen. The second group creates monoadducts, or links, to an individual base — the cross-pieces inside a DNA strand.

Ultraviolet light can slow down the overgrowth of skin cells that form psoriasis plaques, or rashes. It is found that psoralens and ultraviolet light together could trigger melanin production. Thus helping to treat vitiligo, which is a loss of pigment in the skin.

Hypo-pigmentary disorders are challenging skin disorders to treat because of its recurring condition. Doctors use psoralens with sunlamps or light booths that emit ultraviolet light. This is called PUVA or photochemotherapy.

Shortfalls of Oral Psoralens

Psoralens can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Severe adverse reactions can occur with psoralens and UV radiation, including sunburn, increased risk of skin cancer (due to mutagenicity inherent in their action), cancer of the male genitalia, cataracts and accelerated skin ageing.

 

The increased risk for the development of skin cancer associated with these treatments has led to a search for alternative therapies. Natural psoralen has been used in combination with sunlight for the treatment of skin disease for centuries. 

Topical natural Psoralen –Need of the hour

Verdura Mela Pro cream is the modified and modern form of classical Psoralea corylifolia

Psoralea corylifolia or babchi- It contains Psoralen which on absorption of sun light activates the damaged melanocytes (pigment producing skin cells) resulting into production of melanin.
Wrightia tinctoria or Vetpalai – Augments healing properties of skin.

Indigofera tinctoria- Acts as anti-oxidant and contain natural pigment indigo.

Piper longum or long pepper- Induces multiplication of pigment cells and also helps in the melanin transfer from the basal layer of the skin to the uppermost layer.

It has following benefits

  • Contains Natural form of psoralens.
  • Greater benefit in less photogenic reaction.
  • Increases the susceptibility of skin to UV rays.
  • Kindles genetic memory of the skin to produce melanin in Vitiligo.
  • Proven to be hypoallergenic and safe for long term use

Method of application

Psoralen application is followed by exposure to gradually increasing doses (till mild erythema achieved) of sunlight. For sensitivity patients, alternative days exposure is preferable. According to new studies, the best time of the day to expose the sunlight is between 9.15 – 11.15 AM and 2.30-3.30 PM because there is minimal unwanted exposure to UVB and infrared light at these times.

Verdura mela gain cream helps in the management of vitiligo condition.

It also contains Psoralea corylifolia (natural source of Psoralen) that entraps and boosts the sun therapy and the sun screeners such as Bentonite, Calamine, Titanium dioxide and Zinc oxide that are present in it, give required protection to the skin from over exposure.

Clinical proof for efficacy of Verdura mela gain cream

A clinical study was done on 26 volunteers with cream with and without sun screeners and with and without sun exposure.

The findings of the study suggest that the herbal actives of the cream induce melanin production, irrespective of sun exposure. Simultaneously, the sunscreeners minimize the solar vulnerability of the skin.

Hence, with these proven complimentary benefits from contradicting agents, Verdura mela gain cream can be the best product of choice for vitiligo treatment.

PUVA is an acronym. The P stands for psoralen, the U for ultra, the V for violet, and the A for that portion of the solar spectrum between 320 and 400 nanometers in wavelength. Psoralens are chemicals found in certain plants that have the ability to absorb ultraviolet light in the UVA portion of the solar spectrum.

Once the light energy is absorbed, these psoralens are energized to interact with DNA, ultimately inhibiting cell multiplication, which is its presumed mode of action. Same way melanin will be triggered in response to UV light as a defensive mechanism protecting the skin.

When there are skin conditions with lack of melanin and scarce of melanin, PUVA therapy is used to trigger the melanin production from DNA level, thereby giving even tone of the skin along with the defensive mechanism.

What are the advantages of PUVA?

The major advantage to PUVA is that it is an effective therapy that becomes active only at the site of exposure. It can be used to treat large areas of skin, and the fact that the drug is only activated in the presence of UV light implies that it may be less toxic than other therapies that require systemic administration and whose effects are not localized to just the skin.

What are the disadvantages of PUVA?

PUVA can potentially cause skin cancer, just as does natural ultraviolet light. In addition, because of the intensity and duration over which it may be given, patients are at greater risk to develop squamous cell skin cancers and melanomas in treated skin than would otherwise be the case. In addition, excessive aging of the skin manifest as excessive lentigines with atrophy (poikiloderma) is likely to occur in the areas treated. Although rare, serious burns are possible because of inadvertent over dosage of UVA. Patients must limit their environmental exposure to sunlight for 24 hours after taking psoralens.

Verdura Mela Pro cream is the modified and modern form of classical Psoralea corylifolia

Psoralea corylifolia or babchi- It contains Psoralen which on absorption of sun light activates the damaged melanocytes (pigment producing skin cells) resulting into production of melanin.
Wrightia tinctoria or Vetpalai – Augments healing properties of skin.

Indigofera tinctoria- Acts as anti-oxidant and contain natural pigment indigo.

Piper longum or long pepper- Induces multiplication of pigment cells and also helps in the melanin transfer from the basal layer of the skin to the uppermost layer.

It has following benefits

  • Contains Natural form of psoralens.
  • Greater benefit in less photogenic reaction.
  • Increases the susceptibility of skin to UV rays.
  • Kindles genetic memory of the skin to produce melanin in Vitiligo.
  • Proven to be hypoallergenic and safe for long term use

Method of application

Psoralen application is followed by exposure to gradually increasing doses (till mild erythema achieved) of sunlight. For sensitivity patients, alternative days exposure is preferable. According to new studies, the best time of the day to expose the sunlight is between 9.15 – 11.15 AM and 2.30-3.30 PM because there is minimal unwanted exposure to UVB and infrared light at these times.

Verdura mela gain cream helps in the management of vitiligo condition.

It also contains Psoralea corylifolia (natural source of Psoralen) that entraps and boosts the sun therapy and the sun screeners such as Bentonite, Calamine, Titanium dioxide and Zinc oxide that are present in it, give required protection to the skin from over exposure.

Clinical proof for efficacy of Verdura mela gain cream

A clinical study was done on 26 volunteers with cream with and without sun screeners and with and without sun exposure.

The findings of the study suggest that the herbal actives of the cream induce melanin production, irrespective of sun exposure. Simultaneously, the sunscreeners minimize the solar vulnerability of the skin.

Hence, with these proven complimentary benefits from contradicting agents, Verdura mela gain cream can be the best product of choice for vitiligo treatment.

 

Pigmentation refers to the coloring of the skin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin color. Melanin acts as a protective barrier against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Melanin offers antioxidant activity by scavenging for reactive oxygen species produced via UV.

What happens if you don’t have enough melanin?

Melanin in excess – Hyperpigmentation

Melanin in scarce – Hypopigmentaion

Melanin in scarce – Hypopigmentaion

Vitiligo – An auto-immune condition with lack of skin color in patches

A disease that causes the loss of skin colour in blotches.
Vitiligo occurs when pigment-producing cells die or stop functioning.
Loss of skin colour can affect any part of the body, including the mouth, hair and eyes.
It may be more noticeable in people with darker skin.

Symptoms

Vitiligo signs include:

  • Patchy loss of skin color, which usually first appears on the hands, face, and areas around body openings and the genitals
  • Premature whitening or graying of the hair on your scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows or beard
  • Loss of color in the tissues that line the inside of your mouth and nose (mucous membranes)

Vitiligo can start at any age, but usually appears before age 30.

Depending on the type of vitiligo you have, it may affect:

  • Nearly all skin surfaces. With this type, called universal vitiligo, the discoloration affects nearly all skin surfaces.
  • Many parts of your body. With this most common type, called generalized vitiligo, the discolored patches often progress similarly on corresponding body parts (symmetrically).
  • Only one side or part of your body. This type, called segmental vitiligo, tends to occur at a younger age, progress for a year or two, then stop.
  • One or only a few areas of your body. This type is called localized (focal) vitiligo.
  • The face and hands. With this type, called acrofacial vitiligo, the affected skin is on the face and hands, and around body openings, such as the eyes, nose and ears.

It’s difficult to predict how your disease will progress. Sometimes the patches stop forming without treatment. In most cases, pigment loss spreads and eventually involves most of your skin. Occasionally, the skin gets its color back.

Albinism – A genetic condition with lack of skin color all over the body

A group of inherited disorders characterised by little or no melanin production.
This condition increases the risk of skin cancer.
Most people with albinism have pale skin, eye conditions and are sensitive to the sun.
No cure exists, but skin can be protected and eye conditions can be treated.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of albinism involve skin, hair, and eye color and vision.

Skin

The most recognizable form of albinism results in white hair and very light-colored skin compared with siblings. Skin coloring (pigmentation) and hair color can range from white to brown, and may be nearly the same as that of parents or siblings without albinism.

With exposure to the sun, some people may develop:

  • Freckles
  • Moles, with or without pigment — moles without pigment are generally pink-colored
  • Large freckle-like spots (lentigines)
  • Sunburn and the inability to tan

For some people with albinism, skin pigmentation never changes. For others, melanin production may begin or increase during childhood and the teen years, resulting in slight changes in pigmentation.

Hair

Hair color can range from very white to brown. People of African or Asian descent who have albinism may have hair color that’s yellow, reddish or brown. Hair color may also darken by early adulthood or stain from exposure to normal minerals in water and the environment, and appear darker with age.

Eye color

Eyelashes and eyebrows are often pale. Eye color can range from very light blue to brown and may change with age.

The lack of pigment in the colored part of the eyes (irises) makes the irises somewhat translucent. This means that the irises can’t completely block light from entering the eye. Because of this, very light-colored eyes may appear red in some lighting.

Melanin in excess – Hyperpigmentation

Melasma –Grey-brown patches appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin

A condition in which brown patches appear on the face.
Melasma can be due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or from sun exposure. Women are much more likely than men to develop this condition.
The brown or grey-brown patches of melasma appear most often on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin.
In women, melasma often fades on its own after pregnancy. Skin lightening creams can help lasting melasma.

Melasma appears in six locations or a combination of locations on your skin:

  1. Brachial: The melasma appears on your shoulders and upper arms.
  2. Centrofacial: The melasma appears on your forehead, cheeks, nose and upper lip.
  3. Lateral cheek pattern: The melasma appears on both cheeks.
  4. Malar: The melasma appears on your cheeks and nose.
  5. Mandibular: The melasma appears on the jawline.
  6. Neck: In people age 50 or older, melasma can appear on all sides of the neck.

Lentigines – Sharply circumscribed, pigmented macule surrounded by normal-appearing skin

Lentigines, or liver spots, are benign lesions that occur on the sun-exposed areas of the body. The backs of hands and face are common areas. The lesions tend to increase in number with age, making them common among the middle age and older population. They can vary in size from 0.2 to 2 cm.

Lentigo causes flat spots to appear on the body. These spots are usually tan, brown, or black in color. They may have rounded or uneven edges. Lentigines can appear on different areas of your body, depending on their cause.

Various products that give the following benefits are majorly used for treating vitiligo or hypopigmentary disorders of skin:

  • Increases in melanin synthesis by skin cells
  • Helps in the transfer of melanin from basal layer to the upper layer of skin
  • And also induces the functionality of the required enzyme, tyrosinase

These functions are further enhanced by the sun therapy or PUVA therapy. But, due to lack of melanin, the vitiligenous skin becomes very sensitive to the sun exposure. Hence it needs to be protected from the sun damage.

Verdura mela gain cream- what and why

Verdura mela gain cream gives all the above mentioned benefits and helps in the management of vitiligo condition.

It also contains Psoralea corylifolia (natural source of Psoralen) that entraps and boosts the sun therapy and the sun screeners such as Bentonite, Calamine, Titanium dioxide and Zinc oxide that are present in it, give required protection to the skin from over exposure.

Clinical proof for efficacy of Verdura mela gain cream

A clinical study was done on 26 volunteers with cream with and without sun screeners and with and without sun exposure.

The findings of the study suggest that the herbal actives of the cream induce melanin production, irrespective of sun exposure. Simultaneously, the sunscreeners minimize the solar vulnerability of the skin.

Hence, with these proven complimentary benefits from contradicting agents, Verdura mela gain cream can be the best product of choice for vitiligo treatment.