I’m writing this in hopes of helping others deal with summer and summer activities outdoors, less clothes, more vitiligo showing and more skin protection needed. I have a lot of experience with this and since I'm new to the community, I thought I'd share some tips I've learned along the way.
I have a motor boat and vitiligo….not a great combination. I had the boat first and am not willing to give it up, but that doesn’t mean I am always confident about the way I look. I have good days and bad days. I spend every weekend during the summer on the boat or swimming in the lake, so I’ve tried almost everything to cover my vitiligo and protect my skin.
There are several ways to cover vitiligo when swimming or spending the summer outdoors. None are perfect, but all work in different ways. You can wear UPF 50+ sun protection swimwear, get a spray tan, or use cosmetics. I find a combination of these covers is the best way to go, so be flexible.
The simplest way to cover vitiligo for summer fun is to wear UVP swimwear, rash guards, or clothing. It depends on where you vitiligo is located, but I can cover my torso, arms, and my thighs with the UVP clothing, swim all day, and not have to constantly slather my entire body in sunscreen. The material is fast drying and made to swim in and the styles have improved considerable over the years. I recommend the following links:
http://www.columbia.com/Omni-Shade/Technology_Omni-Shade,default,pg.html
http://athleta.gap.com/browse/category.do?cid=92423
And/or I get a spray tan with a professional in the summer - don’t use the machines. Search your local area for a spray tan professional who has worked with vitiligo clients before. Mine sprays my spots first, then my whole body, then re-sprays my spots. The first couple of days, you can’t see my vitiligo at all. It does fade, and the more time you spend in the water, the faster it fades. And, it is not cheap, so sometimes I spot tan myself with a self-tanner lotion just where my UPF clothes are not covering me.
And/or use camouflage make-up. This works great in the cooler weather because it will melt off in high heat and it will wipe-off on your towel and clothing. You will have to reapply throughout the day. I have always used Dermablend products. In my opinion it is the best makeup for vitiligo. They even have videos on application and some inspiring stories from real people like us.
You can also purchase at Sephora.
Lastly, I recommend the following sunscreens:
http://www.neutrogena.com/category/sun.do
I hope this is helpful and everyone has a wonderful summer.
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