Phototherapy for Vitiligo: Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect

Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition in which skin starts losing its pigmentation, causing white or light colour patches. The available treatment options for vitiligo can help manage or control the condition. One of the most promising and effective treatment options offered by dermatologist in Delhi that has gained attention is phototherapy. The treatment works by stimulating the pigmentation production to repigment the affected area. In this blog, we will be taking a closer look at an overview of phototherapy, its benefits, risks, and what to expect if you choose this treatment. Continue reading for more information. 

 

Overview of phototherapy for Vitiligo?

 

The word ‘photo’ means light. Phototherapy is also known as light therapy. In this therapy, the targeted skin area is exposed to controlled doses of ultraviolet light. Now, during the treatment, there are two ways in which the treatment can be performed, namely:

 

• Narrowband UVB, or NB-UVB: It is the most common type of phototherapy. This type of phototherapy uses a specific wavelength of light for stimulating melanocyte cells (cells responsible for producing melanin pigment). 

 

• Excimer Laser: Excimer laser is used for a more targeted approach. This type of phototherapy uses more focused UVB light to target and treat small areas of depigmented skin. 

 

Benefits of Phototherapy for Vitiligo

 

The benefits of phototherapy for Vitiligo are as follows: 

 

• Effective in Repigmentation: The treatment works by stimulating repigmentation in the affected area and significant improvements can be seen within a few weeks or months. However, the treatment is considered best when used at the early stage of vitiligo. 

 

• Non-Invasive: The treatment is non-invasive and does not involve nicks, cuts, incisions, or injections. It simply involves targeted exposure to UV lights. 

 

• Targeted Treatment: The treatment offers a targeted treatment approach to avoid exposure to non-pigmented areas. Light from the excimer laser is precisely focused on the affected area, making it suitable for individuals with localized treatment. Moreover, this targeted approach also helps in reducing the side effects of treatment on healthy skin. 

 

• Can be Combined with Other Treatments: For more targeted and effective results, the treatment can be combined with other treatment options as well. For example, phototherapy is often prescribed with topical corticosteroids to improve results. 

 

Risks and Side Effects of Phototherapy

 

Phototherapy is generally considered a safe treatment; there are essentially no side effects. However, in some cases, there can be some risks and side effects. These side effects and risks are as follows: 

 

• Skin Redness or Irritation: Since your skin will be exposed to UV rays, it is normal to have sunburns. This causes temporary redness or irritation on the skin. 

 

• Increased Risk of Skin Cancer: As we know, long-term exposure to UV rays increases the risk of skin cancer. This also applied to phototherapy as well. Since the therapy uses UV rays, prolonged exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Thus, it is important to avoid overexposure during the treatment, which should be performed by a skilled dermatologist only. 

 

• Tanning or Uneven Skin Tone: While using UV light, in some cases, individuals may develop uneven pigmentation, tanning the targeted area darker than the surrounding skin. 

 

What to Expect During Phototherapy Treatment?

 

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation with a Dermatologist
2. Preparing for Treatment
3. Aftercare and Skin Protection
4. Monitoring and Adjustments

 

For details on these steps of best vitiligo treatment in Delhi get in touch with a leading dermatologist, Dr. Nivedita Dadu at Dadu Medical Centre. 

Phototherapy offers an effective and non-invasive option for many people looking to treat vitiligo. While the treatment has its risks, including potential skin irritation and long-term exposure concerns, the benefits of repigmentation can make it a highly worthwhile option for those struggling with the cosmetic effects of vitiligo. If you are considering this treatment, you can consult with Dr. Nivedita Dadu at Dadu Medical Centre for vitiligo treatment. The specialist can help you understand whether phototherapy is the right choice for you or not. 

 

For more information, you can book an appointment with Dr. Nivedita Dadu at Dadu Medical Centre, today. The clinic is located at Rajouri Garden West Delhi and Vasant Vihar, South Delhi!