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Treating Vitiligo

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo or leukoderma is the loss of pigment in the skin, resulting in inconsistent patches. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body, but patches are typically found on areas that are exposed to the sun. Pigment-producing cells called melanocytes stop producing or die all together, causing skin to lighten. Vitiligo provides little physical discomfort, but it can cause emotional side effects.

Treating Vitiligo with Phototherapy

Narrowband UVB light phototherapy devices have proven to be highly effective in the re-pigmentation process. They work by stimulating the production of melanocytes. In a study conducted in Italy, more than 95% of patients experienced repigmentation as a result of phototherapy.1

The process is slow, often lasting months, but treatment for up to 10 minutes only 2-3 times per week can yield favorable results. National Biological Corporation manufactures a range of devices for the treatment of vitiligo. Our most popular units include the six foot PANOSOL 6 for moderate to severe vitiligo, the HANDISOL® for more moderate patches, and the DERMALUME 2X™ wand for small areas.

Photo of a woman with vitiligo smiling and drinking coffee.
Series of 4 photos from February 2018 through July 2018 showing a patient's shoulder showing progressive regimentation as a result of their UV phototherapy treatments.

“Narrow-band ultra-violet light B…is currently the most successful treatment for patients with vitiligo.”

-UMass Medical School Vitiligo Clinic and Research Center. “Treatments.”

Other Resources and Information

Vitiligo Support International Logo
Vitiligo Support International

www.vitiligosupport.org

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology Logo
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology

www.ijdvl.com

American Academy of Dermatology Association Logo
American Academy of Dermatology

www.aad.org

1 Percivalle S., et al. “Narrowband UVB Phototherapy in Vitiligo: Evaluation of Results in 53 Patients.” Giornale Italiano di Dermatolgo e Venereologia. Feb 2008.

Why choose phototherapy?

What is phototherapy and how does it work?

How to order a home phototherapy device