What are the Best Treatments for Vitiligo Management?

The white patches typically appear on the skin, particularly on the face, neck, hands, and body openings. The melanocytes lose their function and are unable to produce melanin. It is a non-communicable disease. It has been observed that although it can affect any skin type, the white patches on darker-skinned individuals are more noticeable. The adult generation is commonly affected. If you are the one suffering from this skin concern, then this blog discusses the best treatments for vitiligo management and how much Vitiligo Treatment cost in Bangalore.

Two major types of vitiligo are: 

1. Segmental Vitiligo
2. Non-Segmental Vitiligo.

Segmental Vitiligo affects one side or segment of the body, for example, one hand or one leg, or one foot.

In Non-Segmental Vitiligo, the white patches are found on both sides of the patient's body.   A wide range of treatments is available for vitiligo. 

Treatments for Vitiligo Management:

• Corticosteroid creams- Some small patches can be treated with steroid creams or other medications and ointments. Some newer, more effective medications have been released in the market for even better results in restoring the skin pigmentation. Sunscreens are essential to protect the skin against UV rays. 

• Light therapy- If the patient has more widespread patches, special light treatment called narrowband UVB therapy is very effective. It involves standing in a light box two to three times a week. Small areas can also be treated with a focused light (Excimer laser).

• Oral medications/Tablets- In fast-spreading vitiligo, short courses of tablets may be used to calm the immune system. Newer medicines, called JAK inhibitors, are also being studied and sometimes used in conjunction with light therapy.

• Surgery- If vitiligo is stable (no new patches for a year), surgical options can transfer pigment cells from normal skin to white patches. This is typically done when creams and light therapy haven’t been effective.

• Emotional support - It can be very useful for patients to receive emotional support and counseling to boost their confidence. 

The dermatologist determines the cost of vitiligo treatment after assessing the patient's concerns and depending on the procedure used, which ranges from INR 2,500 to INR 70,000. 

Conclusion

There is no single treatment for vitiligo management, but various procedures or their combinations can be applied to achieve an effective result. Personalised treatments are provided so that the patient feels comfortable in their own skin, even after the skin pigmentation is restored. 

Consult with the best dermatologist in Bangalore, Dr. Rasya Dixit, for expert skin-related advice and effective vitiligo treatment. One can visit her at Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic!