There are several ways to camouflage or disguise vitiligo. People who have naturally fair skin are better off staying out of the sun. This way they prevent their pigmented skin from darkening in the summer and the contrast with the vitiligo spots remains minimal. In addition, vitiligo patients can use makeup to camouflage.

Camouflage agents

If you are going to use camouflage make-up for the first time, it is advisable to seek advice and tips from a certified skin therapist or beautician. They can advise you on which product and color combination is suitable for your skin. They can also teach you how to apply the product. You can find: on the website of the Dutch Association of Skin Therapists skin therapists near you or a medical beautician near you.

Camouflage agents do not protect against the sun. It is therefore wise to first use a day cream that does offer this protection. Once the day cream has been absorbed into the skin, you can apply the camouflage agent over it.

The ideal camouflage agent

• Do not close the skin.
• Doesn't look like a mask.
• Adheres well to the skin as a transparent layer.
• Is not washable.
• Comes in many color combinations.
• Does not irritate.
• Can be fitted with a sun protection filter.

 Self-tanning creams

There are various self-tanning creams available. These creams artificially give your skin a tan. Accurate application is necessary to prevent the edges of the pigmented skin from darkening. The advantage of self-tanning creams over camouflage make-up is that they are not washable and last longer. The disadvantage is that these creams are only available in one color, so you do not get as close to your own skin color as with makeup. Moreover, they have a different effect on one skin color than on another. So you have to try several creams before you find your right color.

Self-tanning creams do not protect against the sun. You will also have to use sunscreen. Self-tanning cream has the best results for light skin types.

Reimbursement for the various products?

For a medically justified reason, such as vitiligo, camouflage products are usually reimbursed. This does not apply to self-tanning products, which the patient must pay for themselves.

What are the do's and don'ts of camouflage?

“General camouflage advice does not exist, because every skin is different. Just think: coarse or fine pores. Oily, dry or normal skin. Light or dark complexion. Severe or moderate sensitivity to the sun. The location of the vitiligo also plays a role. What does the patient want to achieve with camouflage?

Where can I read more about camouflage and make-up?

You will also find more information about your skin and camouflage on these websites:
www.nationaalhuidcentrum.nl
https://www.medisch-schoonheidsspecialist.nl/