Vitiligo Treatment

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a condition where patches of skin lose their pigment and appear lighter or white. This happens when melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells—are destroyed or stop functioning. While vitiligo itself is not physically harmful, it often carries a significant emotional impact, especially when it affects visible areas like the face or hands.

Up to 2% of people develop vitiligo, with most cases appearing before the age of 30.

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Signs and Symptoms of Vitiligo

• Pale or white patches with clear, defined borders

• Commonly affected areas:

  • Face, hands, arms, feet, legs

  • Skin folds (e.g. underarms, groin)

  • Around eyes, mouth, and genitals

• Early greying of scalp or body hair

• Itch or discomfort in some cases

• May develop following skin trauma or friction

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Vitiligo can spread slowly, stay stable, or occasionally reverse. New patches sometimes appear after stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

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Types of Vitiligo

• Non-Segmental Vitiligo – Most common; usually affects both sides symmetrically

• Segmental Vitiligo – Often starts earlier in life, limited to one area

• Mixed Vitiligo – A combination of segmental and non-segmental

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What Causes Vitiligo?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to be autoimmune-related. Vitiligo may also be triggered or influenced by:

• Genetic predisposition (family history in ~30% of cases)

• Physical trauma or skin injury (Koebner phenomenon)

• Emotional stress

• Associated autoimmune conditions:

  • Thyroid disease (Hashimoto’s, Graves’)

  • Type 1 diabetes

  • Pernicious anaemia

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How is Vitiligo Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on a clinical skin examination.

 

A dermatologist may use a Wood’s lamp to highlight subtle pigment loss.

 

In some cases, blood tests are ordered to check for related autoimmune conditions.

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Treatment Options for Vitiligo

Not all vitiligo needs treatment. If you’re fair-skinned or unconcerned by the cosmetic changes, no intervention may be necessary. For those seeking treatment, several options are available to restore pigment or improve appearance.

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Topical Medications

• Corticosteroids – Effective on limbs and trunk

• Calcineurin inhibitors (e.g. tacrolimus) – Ideal for face, neck, and folds

• Vitamin D analogues – Often used in combination

• New FDA-approved treatments exist for non-segmental vitiligo

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Phototherapy

• Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) – Gold standard for widespread vitiligo

• Excimer laser – Targets small areas

• PUVA therapy – Used less often, but still effective in selected patients

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Treatment is usually given 2–3 times per week over several months.

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Surgical Techniques

• Pigment cell transplant (melanocyte transfer)

• Punch grafting or blister grafting

• Micropigmentation (cosmetic tattooing)

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Most suited to stable vitiligo that hasn’t changed for 6–12 months.

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Depigmentation Therapy

For those with extensive involvement, bleaching the remaining pigmented skin can create a more even appearance.

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Psychological and Social Support

Vitiligo can affect mental health and self-esteem. We support your emotional wellbeing by offering:

• Cosmetic camouflage advice

• Access to psychological services or support groups

• Guidance on sun safety and skin protection

• Consistent follow-up care with your treating dermatologist

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Long-Term Outlook

Vitiligo is unpredictable—some people experience long-term stability, while others may see new patches develop. Treatment success is highly variable but often greatest when started early.

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Our dermatologists tailor each treatment plan to suit your skin, goals, and medical history.

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Why Choose Domain Dermatology for Vitiligo Care?

• 🖥️ Telehealth access Australia-wide

• 🧑‍⚕️ Specialist dermatology care—no referral needed

• 🩺 Evidence-based treatment plans tailored to you

• 🤝 Continuity of care from diagnosis through follow-up

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Book a Dermatology Telehealth Appointment

If you’re concerned about new or spreading white patches, we’re here to help. Speak directly with a dermatologist from the comfort of your home.

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👉 [Book Now] or [Contact Us]