White patches on the skin, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Vitiligo (白癜风), is a common skin condition characterized by localized loss of pigment, forming white patches. It is frequently seen in children but can occur at any age and on any part of the body.
Vitiligo is not contagious; however, the appearance of white patches often brings significant psychological pressure to patients and can even impact their social lives.
Dr Li Rui Shares a Real Case Study: A Young Girl’s Journey to Recovery
Eight-year-old Chen Min (pseudonym) first noticed white patches appearing on her neck at the age of five. The patches led to teasing at school, and some classmates even mistakenly believed Vitiligo was contagious, causing them to distance themselves from her. Her worried family brought her to see Dr Li Rui at the Singapore Shanghai Chinese Medicine Centre.
After a period of systematic TCM treatment, the white patches stopped spreading, and "melanoma islands" (small dots of pigment) began to appear within the affected areas. Although the improvement process was gradual, the results remained stable. Currently, her white patches are almost invisible.
The Advantages of TCM in Treating Vitiligo
TCM treatment for Vitiligo emphasizes "Syndrome Differentiation." It is believed that the occurrence of Vitiligo is closely related to the disharmony of Qi and Blood, Liver and Kidney deficiency, and Spleen and Stomach weakness. Treatment methods focus on "harmonizing Qi and Blood, tonifying the Liver and Kidneys, and dispelling wind to open the meridians."
In clinical practice, Dr Li Rui utilizes a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle regulation. While the course of treatment is relatively long, the process is natural and gentle with low side effects, helping to improve the patient's constitution and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Daily Care Recommendations
TCM emphasizes that Vitiligo patients should follow these guidelines to support treatment and prevent the condition from worsening:
• Avoid spicy and stimulating foods, as well as seafood and mutton.
• Avoid physical trauma, scratching, and sunburn to reduce the risk of the patches spreading.
• Manage emotional stress; avoid excessive anxiety, tension, or mood swings.
• Maintain a regular lifestyle and engage in moderate exercise to enhance immunity.
Seek Timely Treatment to Prevent Spreading
Dr Li Rui reminds patients that the efficacy of treatment is highest during the early stages of Vitiligo. It is crucial to seek professional treatment early to prevent the condition from spreading, which can further impact quality of life and mental health.
