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Number 2 Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)

Number 1 Skin Cancer & Pre-Cancer Care
Number 1 Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)
Number 3 Pigment & Lesion Disorders
Number 4 Non-Cancer Growth
Number 5 Surgical Dermatology (Non-Cancer Procedures)
Number 6 Cosmetic Dermatology
Vitiligo PDF

• Vitiligo

(Loss of skin pigment that causes white patches)

What Is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a condition where areas of skin lose pigment (color), leading to white or lighter patches. It can affect any part of the body, and it can also affect hair (turning it white) and sometimes the inside of the mouth. Vitiligo is not contagious.

Vitiligo often has periods of change and stability. Some people choose not to treat it, while others want treatment to restore pigment and/or slow progression—both are valid choices.

What Does Vitiligo Look Like?

Vitiligo commonly appears as:

  • Smooth white or lighter patches

  • Sharply defined borders

  • Common areas: face, hands, arms, feet, and around body openings (mouth/eyes)

How We Diagnose Vitiligo

Diagnosis is usually made with:

  • A focused history and skin exam

  • Sometimes a special light exam in the office to help define pigment loss

  • Rarely, additional testing if another condition needs to be ruled out

Vitiligo Treatment Options

Your plan depends on patch location, how widespread vitiligo is, and whether it’s active.

1) Topical medications (creams/ointments)

These can help calm inflammation and support repigmentation in selected areas, especially on the face.

2) Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) phototherapy

NB-UVB is a common, effective option for more widespread vitiligo. Treatment is typically done 2–3 times per week, and results usually take time—often months, not days.

3) Excimer light/laser (308 nm)

Excimer is targeted light therapy—great for smaller, localized patches because it treats the spots while sparing unaffected skin.

4) Combination plans

Many patients do best with a combined approach (for example: topical therapy + phototherapy), depending on goals and skin type.

Pre-Op Instructions (Before Phototherapy or Excimer)

(No fasting needed — these are “before treatment” tips.)

1–2 weeks before starting

  • Avoid tanning and sunburn

  • Tell us if you:

    • Take medications that increase sun sensitivity

    • Have a history of frequent skin cancers or photosensitivity disorders

    • Are pregnant or trying to conceive (we’ll tailor options)

Day of treatment

  • Arrive with clean, dry skin on treatment areas

  • Avoid perfumes/body oils on treated areas (unless we instruct otherwise)

  • Bring a list of all medications and topical products you use

Post-Op Instructions (After Phototherapy or Excimer)

a) What’s normal

  • Mild pinkness/warmth for a few hours

  • Mild dryness or itch

  • Gradual, patchy repigmentation over time (often first seen as tiny “freckles” of color)

Skin care after sessions

  • Use a gentle moisturizer daily

  • Avoid hot showers/saunas/exercise that overheats you for 24 hours if you tend to get red easily

  • Use consistent sun protection (vitiligo patches burn more easily)

Call our office if you have

  • Painful redness like a sunburn that lasts >24–48 hours

  • Blistering, significant swelling, or worsening discomfort

  • New rash outside treatment areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vitiligo dangerous?

Vitiligo isn’t usually physically dangerous, but it can increase sun sensitivity in the lighter patches, and it can significantly affect confidence and quality of life.

No—vitiligo is not contagious.

  • NB-UVB is often used for widespread vitiligo.

  • Excimer (308 nm) is often used for localized patches.
    Your dermatologist will recommend the best fit for your pattern and schedule.

Many patients need multiple weeks to months to notice pigment returning, and longer courses may improve response.

It can. Narrow Band-UVB phototherapy has been shown to help slow progression in active vitiligo.

It can. Some people need maintenance strategies and ongoing follow-up.

Yes. Opzelura® (ruxolitinib) cream is FDA-approved for nonsegmental vitiligo in ages 12+.

Yes—lighter patches are more likely to burn. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are strongly recommended.