How many times have you felt the need to pass on an invitation because your vitiligo made you feel too self-conscious? Sadly, I’ve chosen to stay home instead of enjoying outings with friends far more often than I wish to admit. There have also been countless times when I attended my children’s social events feeling shy and uneasy, unable to fully savor those precious moments. Truly, this is something perhaps only another person with vitiligo can deeply understand. My feelings might seem exaggerated to some, but for me, it’s a genuine struggle with self-image and the worry that my appearance might cause embarrassment to my loved ones.
I know, logically, that the white patches are inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. Just like putting on lipstick, mascara, and styling my hair, it’s completely acceptable for me to cover my vitiligo if it boosts my confidence. Typically, I use my Vitiligo Cover lotion each week, but sometimes the color fades. If it fades too much, leaving the patches too visible for my liking, and I’m faced with the choice of staying home or accepting an invitation, I’ll just apply a bit of bronzer for a deeper shade to help blend the patches more seamlessly. This small step can make a big difference in how I feel stepping out into the world.