Vitiligo is more than just a skin condition; it can affect a person’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. When patches of skin lose their color, it can significantly affect aesthetic appearance.
Although there are a number of treatment options available for vitiligo, the choice of treatment depends on the spread of vitiligo and their personal goals. In this blog post, we’ll share what vitiligo is and which treatment is better for vitiligo. Let’s get started!
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo, pronounced “vit-il-EYE-go,” is a condition where the skin loses its pigment, causing white patches or macules to appear. These patches may be small, less than a centimeter, or larger, and they can develop anywhere on the body, including areas with hair, which may also turn white or silver.
This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Without these cells, skin loses its natural tone, resulting in visible white patches. While vitiligo itself is not physically painful, its impact on a person’s appearance can lead to emotional and psychological distress.
Vitiligo comes in several types:
- Generalized Vitiligo: The most common form, causing macules to appear in various areas of the body.
- Segmental Vitiligo: Affects only one side or area of the body, like the face or hands.
- Mucosal Vitiligo: Impacts mucous membranes, such as the mouth or genitals.
- Focal Vitiligo: A rare form where macules develop in a small area and do not spread significantly.
- Trichome Vitiligo: Creates a bullseye pattern, with a white center and lighter pigmentation surrounding it.
- Universal Vitiligo: The rarest type, leading to more than 80% of the skin losing its pigment.
How Vitiligo Progresses
Vitiligo often begins with a few small white patches on areas like the hands, face, or feet. Over time, these patches can spread, but they may remain in the same area for years before affecting other regions of the body. The progression is highly variable; for some, it spreads quickly, while for others, it remains stagnant or only affects small areas.
While the amount of skin affected differs from person to person, one thing remains constant: the emotional toll. Many seek treatment not just to restore their skin’s appearance but to regain confidence and ease the social challenges vitiligo can bring.
Diagnosing Vitiligo
To accurately diagnose vitiligo, a medical professional will often begin with a thorough physical examination, including a detailed family history. A lamp, which uses ultraviolet (UV) light, can be used to highlight areas of depigmentation, making them glow bright under the blacklight.
Other diagnostic tests may include:
- Blood tests to check for autoimmune diseases, as vitiligo is often linked to other immune system disorders.
- Eye exams to detect uveitis, an inflammation sometimes associated with vitiligo.
- Skin biopsies confirm the absence of melanocytes, which characterize vitiligo.
Which Treatment is Better for Vitiligo?
While there is no cure for vitiligo, several treatments are available to help manage and improve the appearance of affected skin. The effectiveness of these treatments can vary based on the type and extent of vitiligo, but here’s an overview of the most popular options.
Phototherapy (Intense Pulsed Light Therapy)
One of the most widely recommended treatments for vitiligo is phototherapy, particularly Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL), also known as UVB therapy. This treatment uses ultraviolet B rays to slow or stop the spread of vitiligo and, in some cases, even restore pigment to the skin.
The treatment involves exposing affected areas to UVB light. It typically requires consistency, with at least two sessions per week over several months. Results can take up to six months to become visible. While this treatment has shown significant promise, it’s essential to recognize the potential risks, including an increased chance of skin cancer, especially with prolonged UVA exposure. However, UVB therapy tends to carry a lower risk than UVA-based treatments.
It’s worth noting that at-home sunlamps, though marketed for vitiligo treatment, are not recommended due to safety concerns. Professional treatments are much more effective and regulated.
Skin Grafting
For individuals with small, stable patches of vitiligo, skin grafting can be an effective option. This procedure involves transferring healthy pigmented skin from one area of the body to a depigmented patch. The treatment works best in cases where no new patches have appeared within the last year, and the vitiligo was not triggered by trauma, such as sunburn.
Performed under local or general anesthesia, this procedure can restore pigment to targeted areas. However, it is time-consuming, carries risks of scarring, and is not suitable for children.
Non-Cultured Melanocyte Transfer
This is a highly specialized procedure that takes a small sample of healthy skin and separates melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells. These melanocytes are then transplanted into the depigmented areas. The results are slower to appear, usually between two and four months, but the effectiveness of this treatment is noteworthy. Patients undergoing this procedure can see excellent long-term results, making it a popular choice for those who qualify.
Finding the Best Clinic for Vitiligo Treatment in Surat
Choosing the right treatment for vitiligo depends on several factors, including the type of vitiligo, the extent of the patches, and personal preferences. However, finding a skilled medical professional who understands the complexities of vitiligo is just as important.
In Surat, Celebre Aesthetics, led by Dr. Siddharth Sakhiya, offers a comprehensive approach to treating vitiligo. Dr. Sakhiya, a board-certified plastic, cosmetic, and hair transplant surgeon, emphasizes one-on-one consultations to thoroughly understand each patient’s condition. This personalized approach ensures that the root causes of vitiligo are considered when devising a treatment plan, leading to better outcomes for patients.
At Celebre Aesthetics, transparency is a core value. Dr. Sakhiya ensures that patients are fully informed about the potential results of their treatments, empowering them to make well-informed decisions. Whether considering phototherapy, skin grafting, or more advanced treatments like non-cultured melanocyte transfer, patients can trust that they will receive expert care tailored to their specific needs.
Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Siddharth Sakhiya.
