What symptoms can occur when vitiligo is exposed to sunlight?

Jul 19, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Hello, I am 22 years old. I have vitiligo, but recently I was exposed to the sun for a long time during military training. I would like to know what symptoms may occur if vitiligo is exposed to sunlight.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Vitiligo patients may experience a series of symptoms after sun exposure. Due to the lack of melanin protection, the skin in vitiligo-affected areas has a weaker resistance to ultraviolet rays. Therefore, excessive sunlight exposure may lead to the following symptoms: 1. Skin redness: The skin in vitiligo areas may easily turn red upon sun exposure, and even swell. This is an inflammatory response caused by UV radiation irritating the skin. 2. Blisters and pain: In severe cases, blisters may appear on the vitiligo-affected skin, accompanied by a sensation of pain, indicating skin damage caused by UV radiation. 3. Accelerated pigment loss: Ultraviolet rays from sunlight may irritate the skin in vitiligo areas, accelerating pigment loss and expanding the affected areas. 4. Development of new白斑: Long-term or intense sun exposure may also trigger the appearance of new白斑, worsening the condition.