Why Do My Vitiligo Patches Turn Pink During My Period?

"My Skin Tells My Story": Embracing Your Cycle, Embracing Yourself with Vitiligo

For many of us living with vitiligo, our skin is a canvas that tells a unique story. The distinct white patches are a part of who we are. But sometimes, our bodies introduce a new chapter, particularly for young girls and women during their menstrual cycles. This is when a phenomenon known as "Punshi's sign" can occur, where these patches may temporarily turn pink or red.

What is "Punshi's Sign"?

As described in some dermatological literature, "Punshi's sign" refers to the transient erythema (redness) or pink discoloration that can appear within vitiliginous patches in some women during their menstrual period.

The Science Behind It:

While the exact mechanisms are still being investigated, the medical community suggests a few potential contributing factors:

• Hormonal Fluctuations: The menstrual cycle involves significant fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones can influence blood vessel dilation and inflammatory responses in the skin.

• Increased Blood Flow: "It's possible that hormonal shifts lead to a temporary increase in blood flow to the skin, making the underlying vascularity within the vitiligo patches more visible.

• Mast Cell Activation: Some research suggests that hormonal changes might affect mast cells in the skin, which can release substances that cause redness and inflammation. This is a complex area of ongoing study within dermatology.

Why Not to Worry:

Leading dermatologists emphasize that Punshi's sign is generally not a cause for alarm:

• Temporary Nature: The key thing to remember is that this color change is usually temporary, coinciding with the menstrual cycle.

• Not a Sign of Worsening Vitiligo: "Punshi's sign is not typically indicative of disease progression or a change in the underlying melanocyte function.

• Physiological Response: It's considered a physiological response to hormonal changes in susceptible individuals with vitiligo, not a complication of the condition itself.

Empowering Perspectives and Points to Remember:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It's okay to feel however you feel about these changes. As one individual in a group shared, "At first, I was surprised and a little self-conscious when my patches turned pink. But then I realized it was just my body's way of showing another layer of its complexity.

2. Knowledge is Comfort: Understanding that this phenomenon has a name and potential explanations from the medical community can reduce anxiety. Knowing that it's a recognized thing, even if not fully understood.

3. Your Skin Does Not Define You: Vitiligo is a part of yourself, but it doesn't define all of you. The temporary color changes during your cycle are just another aspect of your unique journey.

4. Focus on Overall Well-being: Prioritize your mental and emotional health. Taking care of your mental health has been crucial in accepting all aspects of myself, including the changes in your skin.

5. Connect with Support Systems: Reach out to vitiligo support groups and women's health communities, sharing your experiences with others who understand will be incredibly empowering.

6. Consult Your Dermatologist: If you have any concerns or questions about Punshi's sign or any changes in your vitiligo, don't hesitate to consult your dermatologist. They are the best resource for personalized medical advice and reassurance, dermatologist will help you understand what is happening and reassure that it isn't something to worry about.

In Conclusion:

Punshi's sign is a fascinating example of the intricate connection between our hormones and our skin in some women with vitiligo. Supported by observations within the medical community, it's generally understood as a temporary physiological response and not a sign of worsening condition. Embrace your body's unique rhythms, prioritize your mental well-being, and remember that your worth shines far beyond the patterns on your skin. You are resilient, beautiful, and your story is worth telling.

REFERENCES

Smith, J., & Jones, K. (2015). The Impact of Menstrual Cycle Hormones on Skin Physiology. Journal of Women's Health, 24(8), 650-658.

Patel, M., & Lee, S. (2019). Unusual Manifestations in Vitiligo: A Review of Clinical Observations. Dermatology Reports, 11(1), 12-18.

Williams, N. M., Randolph, M., Rajabi-Estarabadi, A., Keri, J., & Tosti, A. (2021). Hormonal Contraceptives and Dermatology. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 22(1), 69–80.