How is the treatment done?

Vitiligo is classified into 2 types: Segmental and Non-segmental vitiligo. Segmental vitiligo is less common and more noticed in early age groups. This kind of vitiligo is non-symmetrical. Non-segmental vitiligo happens in 90% of the affected persons and is symmetrical and are more common in areas that are often exposed to the sun. whereas non-segmental vitiligo might not respond to topical treatments, the more stable and fewer changeable segmental vitiligo responds quite well to topical treatments.

Topical treatments include topical creams that contain a corticosteroid, and medications containing calcineurin inhibitors. The topical creams are often used along with vitamin D also. Light medical care or phototherapy could be a preferred treatment once the condition is in its early stages and is confined to a smaller area. A light medical care with UVB radiation will be performed at home itself with a little lamp. In fact, home treatment is way preferred because the patient can use the lamp daily that improves the results. A light therapy with UVA radiation, however, is performed at the doctor’s clinic. Before the therapy, the patient is to orally take a medicine which is able to increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Once the patches are tiny, skin camouflaging will be done with cosmetic coloured creams and make-up. Once the condition is widespread, depigmentation is suggested, that uses strong topical lotions. Skin grafting could be a surgical procedure within which healthy patches of skin are used to cover the de-pigmented areas. Tattooing is an alternative choice wherever the pigment is planted into the skin.

Who is eligible for the treatment? (When is the treatment done?)

Vitiligo is probably going to have an effect on 1% of the world population, and the condition might run in families. Whereas the topical treatments and phototherapy is offered to adults and young adults of all gender, the surgical choices should be considered before undergoing the treatment. The surgeon will assess the patient’s conditions before suggesting the surgical procedure of vitiligo. The surgical procedure isn’t a good choice for kids and for those who will scar easily. For kids, topical treatments can safely be opted for after a consultation with a specialist. Phototherapy with UVA radiation is administered to a child of over twelve years of age. However, the risks and advantages are carefully weighed before going for the treatment.

What are the post-treatment guidelines?

In general, anyone with vitiligo should avoid being in the hot sun. Wearing protecting clothing and use of high-factor sunscreen will be of help. Avoid obtaining skin injury as white patches tend to extend within the injured area. Apart from these, there aren’t any specific measures to be taken care of post any treatment for vitiligo. However, regular observance of autoimmune conditions and thyroid function is important. Also, care is to be taken during a case of psychological depression.

How long does it take to recover?

Vitiligo isn’t completely curable, and treatments will only minimize the visible white patches and improve the skin conditions. Hence, a continuous observation is needed, and also the treatments are too repeated according to the recommendation of a dermatologist.