Vitamin D
In recent years, studies have found that vitamin D plays a role in the immune system. According to a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology, “Vitamin D deficiency is associated with various autoimmune diseases including vitiligo,” leading to speculation about vitamin D as a treatment option. Doctors have recommended vitamin D supplements and sunlight exposure to treat this condition, but studies have also shown that UV light can aggravate vitiligo.
The most promising research suggests vitamin D supplements help treat vitiligo without UV exposure. According to another study, low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher frequency of depigmented macules on patients affected by vitiligo. In other words, people with low vitamin D levels were more likely to have depigmentation (loss of skin color) caused by vitiligo. Then researchers gave the study participants either a daily vitamin D supplement or a placebo for six months. The people who took the vitamin D saw their depigmentation improve and their vitiligo become less severe, while those taking placebos did not see any changes.
