Formulation and Clinical Trial of a Traditional Dosage Form for Skin Depigmentation and Comparison to a Marketed Preparation in Two Groups of Patients Suffering From Vitiligo

Background. The cosmetic problem that vitiligo produces affects patients psychologically. Many patients with vitiligo are suggested
to cover their white skin patches with cosmetic products. There are formulations in traditional Iranian pharmacy to color these
white skin patches. In this study, one of these formulations was compared with a cosmetic formulation. Methods. Two groups of
patients were selected. One group used a marketed formulation and other group used a traditional Iranian pharmacy formulation.
The quality of life of the patients was compared based on the Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire. Results. Both
interventions were associated with statistically improved Dermatology Life Quality Index scores over the 8-week intervention
(P < .05), although the difference between the 2 was not statistically significant (P ¼ .436). Conclusion. Traditional Iranian pharmacy
formulation is effective in increasing the quality of life in vitiligo patients.