How long does excimer laser therapy take to work for vitiligo?

Vitiligo causes areas of skin to lose pigment. Excimer therapy uses focused ultraviolet light to stimulate pigment activity in selected patches. Colour may first appear as tiny freckles or islands, often near hair follicles or patch edges, before spreading or blending. The pace varies with the body site, stability of the vitiligo, patch size, and individual skin response. Hands, feet, and other sites with fewer active pigment cells can behave differently from the face or trunk. A pause in visible change does not by itself show that treatment has failed; the clinician may need to compare photographs over time.

Temporary pinkness or warmth can follow a session. Those effects should be discussed if they are strong, prolonged, or associated with pain.

Keep appointments consistent and follow the prescribed schedule for creams, moisturisers, and light sessions. Take progress photographs in similar lighting and avoid comparing a treated patch immediately after a session with untreated skin. Protect the area from avoidable sun exposure, since contrast can make colour differences more noticeable and irritated skin may react more strongly. Tell the clinician about new medicines, a sunburn, active eczema, or a history of light sensitivity before treatment. Never increase the dose or frequency on your own.

Report blistering, marked burning, severe tenderness, or swelling after treatment. Seek medical advice for spreading redness, pus, fever, or a wound that is not settling. Arrange an assessment if a patch is rapidly expanding, painful, bleeding, or changing in a way that differs from your usual vitiligo. Such changes may need diagnosis before further sessions.

Ask which areas are most suitable, what early colour changes to look for, when photographs will be reviewed, and how treatment will be adjusted if the skin becomes irritated. Ask whether another vitiligo treatment should be continued alongside excimer therapy.