Vitiligo in Children: Understanding to Reassure
Contrary to what we might sometimes imagine, a child growing up with vitiligo does not always see it as a problem. As long as the people around them offer reassurance, avoid constantly drawing attention to their skin or asking intrusive questions, this difference can simply become “a part of who they are.”
Parents therefore play a key role:
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Answer questions simply whenever their child asks them.
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Help their child explain what vitiligo is in their own words when classmates ask about it.
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Offer reassurance: vitiligo is not contagious and does not generally pose a threat to their overall health.
Despite the challenges, children with vitiligo often develop remarkable resilience, particularly when they feel supported, understood and valued.
“Léo s’efface”: A Gentle Way to Talk About Vitiligo
To support children and their families, the French Vitiligo Association (Association Française du Vitiligo) has published a children's picture book entitled “Léo s’efface”, written by Paule Battault and illustrated by Julie Debezy.
The book tells the story of Léo, a young boy with vitiligo, through the eyes of his little sister, who narrates the story. This child's perspective makes the story particularly authentic, accessible and moving. Surprise, concern, kindness and acceptance are all portrayed with great sensitivity.
The book explores:
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How others perceive vitiligo and the importance of choosing the right words.
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Léo's emotions and those of his family.
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The journey towards acceptance, particularly when Léo meets other children like himself.
The gentle, poetic illustrations depict depigmented patches as small “eraser marks,” creating a metaphor that is both visual and symbolic.
Designed for primary school children, as well as parents, teachers and healthcare professionals, “Léo s’efface” is a valuable educational resource. It encourages conversations about vitiligo with tenderness, simplicity and hope. Feel free to share this book with others.
You can order the book (a €10 shipping fee applies).
V-SOD: A Formula Developed to Complement Vitiligo Care, Including in Children
GliSODin V-SOD was developed to complement vitiligo care. Its formula combines a French melon extract rich in gastroprotected superoxide dismutase (SOD) with a protective wheat protein.
Made with plant-derived ingredients and manufactured in accordance with strict quality standards, GliSODin V-SOD may be used in children* under the guidance of a dermatologist, with recommendations adapted to their age and weight (4 to 12 years old, weighing between 15 and 40 kg).
The regimen described in the original French article is:
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2 capsules per day for 3 months.
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Followed by 1 capsule per day for the next 3 months.
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In combination with natural UV exposure or as prescribed by the dermatologist.
For younger children, the original guidance recommends opening the capsules and mixing their contents with applesauce or yogurt.
V-SOD does not replace dermatological treatment. It is intended as an additional measure within an appropriate, individualized medical care plan, under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
