New Hope for Those With Vitiligo

Individuals with the auto-immune disease vitiligo might soon have better treatments to rely on. A research team from King’s College in London found that topical use of peperine, a substance found in black pepper, resulted in renewed pigmentation in affected areas.

Using mice, researchers found that using topical peperine and its synthetic derivatives for 6 weeks resulted in an even, light brown re-pigmentations. When used in conjunction with radiation based phototherapy, the results were even better.

Vitiligo is a disease that is marked by the destruction of melanin – the substance responsible for pigment. This loss of melanin results in white, pigmentless patches that are emotionally disheartening for those who suffer from it, particularly those with darker skin tones. Physically, it leaves those with vitiligo at a higher risk of skin cancer since the body is without its natural UV defenses.