Can Phototherapy or Light Treatments Help Restore Pigment in Vitiligo? Understanding Light-Based Therapies for Repigmentation

Can Phototherapy or Light Treatments Help Restore Pigment in Vitiligo? Understanding Light-Based Therapies for Repigmentation

Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes), leading to white patches on various parts of the body. While there is no permanent cure, medical treatments can help restore pigment, especially when started early. Among the most effective and widely used options is phototherapy, also known as light treatment. This therapy stimulates melanocytes and encourages repigmentation in affected areas. Here's how it works and what you can expect.

What Is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light under controlled conditions. The goal is to stimulate melanocytes in the skin or hair follicles and promote the return of pigment in vitiligo patches. There are several types of light therapy used in the treatment of vitiligo:

1. Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) Phototherapy

This is the most common and effective form of phototherapy for vitiligo. NB-UVB uses a specific wavelength (311–313 nm) of ultraviolet B light to stimulate melanocyte activity and immune regulation.

How It Works:

• Treatments are typically done 2–3 times per week at a clinic or with a home device under supervision.

• Over time, patients may see gradual repigmentation, especially on areas like the face, neck, and upper body.

Benefits:

• Safe for long-term use

• Suitable for widespread or generalized vitiligo

• Can be used in children and adults

Limitations:

• Results may take several weeks to months

• Less effective on hands, feet, and bony areas

• Requires consistency and patience

2. Excimer Laser (Targeted Phototherapy)

Excimer laser delivers a concentrated beam of 308 nm UVB light to specific vitiligo patches. It’s ideal for localized vitiligo and small patches.

Benefits:

• Faster results in fewer sessions

• Minimal exposure to surrounding healthy skin

• Suitable for hard-to-treat areas like around the eyes or mouth

Limitations:

• Not effective for widespread vitiligo

• Higher cost and less availability

3. PUVA (Psoralen + UVA)

An older method that combines a light-sensitizing drug (psoralen) with UVA exposure. While effective in some cases, PUVA has more side effects, including skin aging and increased cancer risk, and is now less commonly used compared to NB-UVB.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Phototherapy is most effective for individuals:

• With non-segmental vitiligo

• Who have recently developed patches

• With stable vitiligo (no new patches for at least 6 months)

It may be less effective for people with long-standing or resistant vitiligo, but some improvement is still possible.

Final Thoughts

Yes, phototherapy can help restore pigment in vitiligo and is considered one of the most effective medical treatments available. While not a permanent cure, consistent sessions can lead to significant and sustained repigmentation, especially when combined with other therapies like topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors. If you're considering light therapy, consult a dermatologist to determine the best approach based on your skin type, vitiligo pattern, and treatment goals.