Does narrowband UVB phototherapy treat vitiligo?

Narrowband UVB exposes vitiligo-affected skin to a controlled portion of ultraviolet B light. The aim is to encourage pigment activity at the edges and within suitable patches. Response depends on the body area, how active the vitiligo is, the extent of depigmentation, and individual skin response.

Treatment normally requires repeated appointments over a planned course, with exposure adjusted by the dermatology team. The face and trunk may respond differently from hands and feet. Colour may return unevenly, and some areas may need additional treatment or a different approach. A clinician can also check whether the vitiligo is stable before recommending light therapy.

Before treatment, tell the clinician about medicines, supplements, previous light reactions, and any eye or skin condition. Attend the scheduled sessions, use the recommended eye protection, and avoid adding unplanned sun exposure or tanning.

Protect untreated skin from strong sunlight as advised, while following the specific moisturising and topical-treatment plan you receive. Keep photographs or other progress records if your clinic recommends them; gradual colour change can be difficult to judge from memory. Report persistent redness, blistering, or pain so the exposure can be reassessed.

Contact the treating clinic promptly for blistering, severe redness, eye pain, or marked tenderness after a session. Seek medical advice for rapidly spreading depigmentation, new symptoms elsewhere on the skin, or a treatment reaction that does not settle as expected.

Ask whether your vitiligo appears active or stable, which areas are realistic treatment targets, how progress will be measured, and what protection is needed between sessions. Ask what alternatives may be considered if response is limited or colour becomes uneven.