When it comes to treatment for vitiligo, there is no cure. However, treatment can help repigment the patient’s skin. Seeing a dermatologist is very important. Research has shown that an even skin tone for patients living with vitiligo can improve psychological and physical health. When it comes to determining what type of treatment is best, a dermatologist will consider a few factors. Some treatments are recommended for certain types of vitiligo and some work better on certain parts of the body. The dermatologist must also consider how much of the patient’s skin is affected as well as the age and general health of the patient.

One type of treatment for vitiligo is light therapy. There are a few different types of light therapy treatment. One type is narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB.) This treatment often requires 2-3 sessions a week for several months. Patients will typically stand in a light body or get localized light treatments. NB-UVB works best on the face and the trunk of the body, working less efficiently on the hands and feet. However, it’s worth a try!

Another type of light therapy for vitiligo is PUVA. This treatment used psoralen, a medicine that makes the skin more reactive to light, and UVA light. This treatment is up to 75% effective in areas of the face, trunk, upper arms, and upper legs. However, it is often only a partial response. Again, the hands and feet do not typically respond well to this type of treatment. PUVA treatments are administered 2-3 times a week and only under close supervision by the dermatologist, as there is the potential for serious side effects.

Aside from light therapy, there are topical treatments available to patients with vitiligo. These medicines will be applied at home and work slowly to return color to the skin. They may sometimes be combined with light therapy treatments. Skin grafting is another treatment option that is possible, typically for those with localized vitiligo. Skin grafting is a surgical procedure wherein healthy pigmented skin is removed and placed over skin affected by vitiligo.

The last option for treatment is depigmentation. This treatment is an option only for those with most of their skin affected by vitiligo. This treatment removed the leftover color from the skin, leaving the skin completely white. This is achieved by a patient applying a prescription cream 1-2 times a day to the skin with color, this must be done for 1-4 years. Depigmentation is a permanent treatment, and the pros and cons should be weighed carefully.

When it comes to children with vitiligo, their treatment options are more limited. Some prescription topical treatments are possible, as well as light therapy. However, PUVA light therapy is only recommended for those of age 12 and older. Even at the age of 12, there are risks that must be carefully considered when deciding on treatment.

Vitiligo is a unique medical condition. Luckily, it has very little impact on general health. However, this does not mean that it does not affect the lives of its patients. There are medical treatment options available for those who wish to seek them, but there is also the possibility of living with vitiligo and accepting it as a part of the beautiful you.

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