Cosmetics: Many patients find that corrective makeup can help mask patches of white skin. Sunless tanning lotions or dyes can also be used. Patients who are interested in semi-permanent dyes and stains should consult with their dermatologists to obtain the names of suitable products.
Depigmentation Therapy: This therapy may be appropriate for those who have extensive vitiligo affecting much of their body. Chemical agents may be used to remove the remaining melanin pigment from normal skin, making the body an even white color. This therapy takes approximately a year to complete and is permanent.
Topical Steroid Agents: Creams containing corticosteroids can be used to return pigment to small areas of vitiligo. However, these treatments can thin the skin or cause formation of stretch marks and should only be used under a dermatologists care.
Ultraviolet B (UVB) Lightbox Phototherapy: Large UVB lightbooths have been the traditional means of light therapy in years past. The drawback to this treatment is that the entire body, including healthy skin, is unnecessarily exposed to UVB light.
PUVA: A type of medication known as psoralen can be prescribed for those undergoing ultraviolet A (UVA) lightbooth treatments (PUVA). Psoralen makes the skin very sensitive to light and should only be used under the close supervision of a dermatologist. PUVA treatments can cause nausea and increase the risk of photodamage and the development of skin cancers.
The BClearTM Targeted PhotoClearing System is a highly selective therapy for vitiligo. The BClear System combines the proven benefits of UVB therapy with the latest advances in targeted-light technology. Repigmentation is stimulated only where needed and the surrounding healthy skin is protected. Most patients feel no discomfort during treatments; no anesthesia is required. A few patients report a mild, sunburn-like sensation afterward that can last a few days. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.
Depending on the areas to be treated and the extent of involvement, each BClear treatment session may last as little as five to twenty minutes. Multiple treatments requiring several months may be necessary for satisfactory repigmentation.
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