Vitiligo
Vitiligo
Vitiligo treatment can reduce and limit white patches and pigmentation issues caused by vitiligo. This skin disease can affect people of all ages and skin types, but may be more noticeable in people with darker complexions. Vitiligo appears when there is an absence of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) around an area of the skin, causing the appearance of pale, white spots. Thanks to continued vitiligo research, numerous treatment options have been developed to improve the symptoms of vitiligo, including Excimer laser treatment and topical care. Our team of board certified dermatologists and skin care experts at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron can diagnose and treat vitiligo using the most up-to-date modalities and techniques to help you improve your complexion.
| Vitiligo Overview | |
| Characterized by white patches on the skin | Can affect patients of any age or skin type, but is more noticeable in people with darker skin |
| Pale spots are common around areas that are exposed to the sun | There are various classifications of vitiligo |
| May affect any area of the body, especially the face, hands, arms, feet, or midsection | Can be correctly diagnosed by your dermatologist |
| White patches may spread to other areas | A combination of Excimer laser treatments and topical products can reduce vitiligo symptoms |
WHAT IS VITILIGO?
Vitiligo is characterized by white patches that form on the skin due to a lack of melanocytes. These cells are responsible for producing melanin, which gives the skin its color. When melanocytes are absent, pale patches form on the skin and contrast with your natural skin tone. There are multiple classifications and subtypes of vitiligo, including:
- Generalized Vitiligo: The most common type of vitiligo that can affect numerous parts of the body. Classifications include acrofacial vitiligo (occurring around the face, hands, or feet) and vitiligo vulgaris (scattered patches around the body).
- Segmental Vitiligo: Vitiligo symptoms occur on only 1 segment or side of your body.
- Localized Vitiligo: Symptoms of vitiligo are not widespread. May affect a specific area of the body (focal vitiligo) or your body’s mucous membranes (mucosal vitiligo).
- Universal Vitiligo: This type of vitiligo affects nearly the entire body.
- Mixed Vitiligo: When various types of vitiligo occur at once.
VITILIGO TREATMENT AT A GLANCE:
Different vitiligo treatments can be combined to achieve substantial results. Laser therapy utilizing the Excimer laser can be used along with topical products. Our board certified dermatologists and physician assistants specialize in vitiligo laser treatment. During this procedure, laser energy is directed to white patches caused by vitiligo. Energy from the Excimer laser can repigment the skin to achieve a more uniform complexion.
| Vitiligo Treatments | ||||
| Vitiligo Laser Treatment | Excimer laser delivers energy to the affected patches of skin | Numerous treatments (usually 10-15) are necessary and follow-ups are required to maintain results | Can repigment the skin, reducing the prominence of white patches | Laser therapy requires little-to-no downtime |
| Topical Treatments | Topical medications, creams, or specialized ointments are applied to areas of vitiligo | The specifics of your topical regimen will depend on the products being used | Can reduce the appearance of pale spots caused by vitiligo | Does not require any healing time or recovery |
HOW MANY LASER VITILIGO TREATMENTS ARE REQUIRED?
Patients usually require anywhere from 10-15 vitiligo laser treatments to ensure optimal results. Follow-up treatments are also necessary in order to continually reduce the symptoms of vitiligo. Our dermatologists at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron can further discuss the details of your vitiligo procedure during your in-office consultation.
WHO IS CONSIDERED AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR VITILIGO TREATMENT?
Patients who have been diagnosed with vitiligo and would like to reduce the appearance of white patches or pale spots caused by this skin disorder may be candidates for vitiligo treatment. Our team at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron can help advise whether vitiligo treatment is right for you during your consultation at our New York City offices.
IS ANESTHESIA RECOMMENDED?
Anesthesia is not usually required when undergoing laser therapy for vitiligo. Your dermatologist can apply a topical numbing cream to minimize any discomfort from your procedure.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER UNDERGOING TREATMENT FOR VITILIGO?
Moderate redness and sensitivity may occur following your laser procedure. These side effects usually subside quickly. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after completing treatment. Our dermatologists suggest that you frequently apply sunscreen if exposed to the sun and consistently moisturize the treatment area.
WHAT KIND OF VITILIGO RESULTS CAN I EXPECT?
Laser therapy and topical treatments for vitiligo can reduce the appearance of white spots and pale patches around the body while restoring a more natural-looking skin tone to the areas affected by vitiligo.
HOW DO I GET STARTED WITH VITILIGO TREATMENT?
The doctors and staff at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron would be happy to discuss your vitiligo treatment in more detail.