Vitiligo and the Sun: Why Sun Protective Clothing Matters

Discover why it's so important for people with vitiligo to stay protected from the sun with UPF 50+ clothing along with some stylish and comfortable suggestions from us here at UV Skinz.

Rhonda Sparks

August 30, 2023

Did you know that individuals with vitiligo are at an increased risk of sun damage and sunburns? This is due to their depigmented skin that makes them more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Learn more about vitiligo and why it's so important for anyone who has this autoimmune disorder to stay protected from the sun.

What Is Vitiligo?

According to Global Vitiligo Foundation, vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder that affects about 1% of the population.

It occurs when the body's immune system attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin and the pigment that gives color to our skin, hair, and eyes. This results in those white patches or depigmented patches that you see.

While vitiligo itself isn't harmful or contagious, the absence of melanin makes these individuals' skin more susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

As a result, many people with vitiligo wear sun protective clothing to protect their skin from sun damage.

Understanding Vitiligo and Sun Sensitivity

Before diving into the benefits of sun protective clothing for people with vitiligo, it's important to understand the relationship between vitiligo and sun sensitivity.

The main concern for people who have vitiligo is how vulnerable their skin is to UV radiation. As melanin acts as a natural shield against the sun's rays, sun exposure can cause some concerns, including sun damage and sunburns.

Sun exposure can exacerbate vitiligo in the following ways:

1. Sunburns: People with vitiligo are more prone to sunburns because their skin lacks the protective melanin.

2. Increased Vitiligo Spread: Excessive sun exposure may lead to the spread of vitiligo, as UV radiation can trigger autoimmune responses.

3. Sun Damage: Sun damage can accelerate skin aging, causing premature wrinkles and fine lines.

How Sun Protective Clothing Can Help People with Vitiligo Stay Protected

Sun protective clothing offers a fantastic solution for people with vitiligo in the following ways:

UV Protection - Sun protective clothing is designed with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, which consists of fabric that has been tested to effectively block a certain percentage of UV radiation from reaching an individual's skin.
Confidence Booster - For people with vitiligo that may feel a little self-conscious about their skin, wearing sun-protective clothing can help - especially if they feel comfortable and stylish in their choices.
Convenience - While we always recommend wearing broad-spectrum SPF and UPF clothing/swimwear, we acknowledge that UPF clothing is much more convenient! You just put it on and there you go. No need to reapply sunscreen multiple times a day.