Vitiligo

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes skin pigmentation loss. This happens when melanocytes, or the cells that create skin pigment, are destroyed. It can present as patches of white skin on the body.

There is no cure for vitiligo. Treatment involves stopping the progression of the pigment loss and achieving re-pigmentation.

Skin injury, including sunburn and cuts, can trigger a new patch of vitiligo to form. People of any skin color can develop vitiligo. However, it may be more noticeable in people with darker skin.

Whether you’re in the early stages of vitiligo or have had this skin condition for a while, it’s important to know about all the treatment options available.

Talk with a dermatologist to help determine which treatment option may work best for you.

Treatment Options

Light therapy

Light therapy uses controlled ultraviolet (UV) light exposure to restore your natural skin color.

1. MELANOCYTE TRANSFER: This relatively new treatment repurposes pigment cells from a donor site & transfers them to the recipient – vitiligo involved sites. Re-pigmentation can be seen as early as 4 weeks. Maximal depigmentation is seen at 6 to 12 months.

People may typically receive light therapy 2 to 3 times per week for a period of 3 to 4 months. If the treatment delivers positive results, it may be continued for up to 2 years.

Light therapy may not be recommended for people with very fair skin.