Q: I have a patient that has just been diagnosed with vitiligo, what type of camouflage creams are available? Is there any further help I can provide?

A: Camouflage creams are classed as Borderline ACBS substances. These creams are not all listed as Borderline substances.

They can be prescribed as long as they are not on the blacklist. There are different makes of camouflage cream listed in the England & Wales Drug Tariff; The Scottish Tariff does not have Borderline substances list however they are allowed on prescription as long as they are not in their blacklist.

These creams are also listed in Part X Borderline A&B Northern Ireland Tariff.

Examples of such creams are listed below: 

• Covermark Classic Foundation
• Covermark Finishing Powder
• Dermacolor Camouflage Cream
• Dermacolor Fixing Powder
• Keromask Finishing Powder
• Keromask Masking Cream
• Veil Cover Cream
• Veil Finishing Powder

You can also advise, there is a new charity called Changing Faces that can help with vitiligo and covering of birthmarks.

This charity focuses exclusively on supporting people with conditions that affects their appearance.

They can advise patients how best to apply their creams and powders.

If patients need more information on their skin camouflage they can call 0300 012 0276, email skincam@changingfaces.org.uk or seek support from: The Vitiligo Society 24 Greencoat Place London SW1P 1RD Free phone: 0800 018 2631.

Tariff Tip written by Sue Swift, UK Drug Tariff and Information Technician