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Writer's pictureNelly Kwasinwi

Skin discolouration


Source: Kwanfour

In one day I had two separate discussions regarding skin discolouration and that prompted me to write this article.


Improved makeup artistry and technology, makes it hard to know if images on social media are fake or real. People are tempted to respond in various ways and some might be demeaning. Imagine reading or hearing mean comments about yourself or a loved one who has skin discolouration. How would that further impact on their confidence and self-esteem? Regardless, everyone is unique, special and people are born different. Its better to be mindful of your thoughts and words.


In June 2016 after my morning shower, I noticed some white patches on my skin particularly on the face, hands, and feet. I ignored it and within two weeks, the patches were spreading. I didn’t feel any pain or itches, but I became increasingly uncomfortable because I did not like wearing makeup. The patches were visible, and I felt that everyone looked at my face as seen on picture 1. Those on my hands and feet were covered.


I decided to book an appointment with my doctor and he made a referral to the dermatologist. I waited for three months for my appointment with the dermatologist.


Within that time, I researched on the symptoms and majority of the results gave me a condition called vitiligo. According to the National Health Service, NHS website, vitiligo is a long-term condition where pale white patches develop on the skin. It is caused by the lack of melanin, which is the pigment in the skin. It can affect any area of skin, but it commonly appears on the face, neck, hands and in skin creases. Sometimes it can develop where there are hair roots, such as on the scalp. It often starts as a pale patch on the skin and gradually turns completely white. The pale areas of skin are more vulnerable to sunburn, so it is important to take extra care when in the sun and use of sunscreen with a high sun protection factor.


I also researched on treatment and made a choice to take one herbal supplement, but I choose not to include the name in this article because I am not a medical prescriber, and I took it at my own risk. I was prepared for any outcome because I was actively searching for a solution and I did not want my confidence to be impacted any further. Within 6 weeks of taking this herbal supplement, I noticed the white patches faded.


In September 2016, I attended my appointment with the dermatologist. The patches as on picture two were barely visible and the only proof I had to show the pictures I took on my iPhone. I also showed the herbal supplement I was taking, and the consultant stated that he had no knowledge of the herbal supplement. He advised that it seemed they were working, and I should continue taking whatever I was taking.


I had lost hair at the top middle of my head. Coincidentally, after taking this herbal supplement the patch of hair had fully grown. Now my skin has her original pigmentation and my hair all grown.


Someone might be having skin discolouration. Get help sooner than later and do your research. I might have been fortunate to get a positive result within a few months because I dealt with it earlier.


I hope this helps someone.

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