What should you know about UV light for vitiligo?

Vitiligo causes lighter patches when pigment-producing cells are absent or less active. Controlled ultraviolet treatment may prompt remaining pigment cells to become active and move into the pale skin. Narrowband UVB is commonly delivered in a dermatology clinic or with a prescribed home device. Excimer laser therapy can focus light on selected small patches. Results vary by body area, stability of the vitiligo and the treatment plan; hands and feet may respond differently from the face or trunk.

Treatment is different from unprotected sun exposure. A clinician chooses the light type, starting exposure and adjustments while checking for redness or irritation. The treated skin can be temporarily pink or sensitive, and overexposure can cause a burn.

Have the diagnosis confirmed before starting, especially if new white patches are appearing. Follow the prescribed schedule exactly, protect untreated skin as directed and tell the clinic about medicines or products that increase light sensitivity. Do not add tanning sessions or extra home exposure to speed the process. Keep appointments so the dose can be adjusted when the skin response changes.

Ask whether a topical treatment should be used alongside light therapy. Options may include topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors or a JAK inhibitor treatment, depending on the area and your medical history. For limited patches, a focused light device may be discussed; for stable disease that has not responded, melanocyte transplant may be considered.

Pause treatment and contact the treating team if the skin develops marked redness, blistering, severe tenderness, crusting or swelling. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty or a rapidly spreading reaction. Arrange a review when new patches continue to appear, existing patches change quickly or the treatment is causing distress without a clear plan for reassessment.

Which light treatment suits the size and location of my patches? What response should we look for, and when will the plan be reviewed? How should I protect my eyes and unaffected skin? Could any of my medicines or skincare products increase sensitivity?