Skin colour or pigmentation deteriorates as a result of vitiligo. Hence, a person’s skin develops uneven, white, or pale spots or macules. It usually starts on the face, forearms, feet, and hands, and it affects roughly 1% of people worldwide. Although treatment is not required, it is an option if one doesn’t like how their skin tone has changed. People can opt for vitiligo pigmentation creams.

What are the creams available for vitiligo?

Steroid creams

The most effective method for treating localised vitiligo is a topical steroid of moderate to high strength. However, the skin may become thin if topical steroids are used for an extended period of time. So, on delicate places like the face or skin creases, one may use creams with weaker strength. Also, individuals can combine steroids with other prescribed non-steroid treatments to help reduce their risk. Mometasone and fluticasone are effective examples.

Non-steroid creams

Prescription lotions that are non-steroid and treat vitiligo don't have as many adverse effects as steroid creams. Hence, they are frequently used either alone or in conjunction with steroids, particularly on the face or on other delicate areas.

A few of the examples include JAK inhibitors blocking specific immune system signals, and analogues of vitamin D3, such as calcipotriene 0.005% cream that controls the growth and division of skin cells. Although they have fewer side effects than steroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus also suppress the immune system.

Topical vitamin D analogues

Calcipotriene is a popular vitamin D analogue that might be prescribed by doctors. Although calcipotriene was created to treat psoriasis, some medical professionals might suggest it to aid vitiligo patients.

Topical repigmentation creams

The immune response that destroys one's melanocytes is suppressed by topical vitiligo therapies, which increase the pigment in vitiligo patches. Hence, areas with vitiligo become darker when these lotions or ointments are applied. If vitiligo has only impacted a small portion of one's skin, this treatment might be the most effective.

Topical corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory drugs called corticosteroids aid in immune system suppression. Hence, this vitiligo cream for the face could slow the progression and help the body to create more pigment-producing melanocytes. These drugs can be taken by both adults and children. In most cases, these are frequently one of the first vitiligo therapies employed.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors

Topical tacrolimus or pimecrolimus are the calcineurin inhibitors used to treat vitiligo. Calcineurin aids in the immune system's activation, as it can help stop the immune system from attacking healthy tissues. Also, drugs that block this protein are frequently used to treat autoimmune conditions like vitiligo.

What are the treatments for vitiligo?

Primarily, vitiligo treatment aims to change the skin's appearance by bringing back its colour. However, treatment does not always stop the spread of vitiligo, but its effects can be controlled.

A doctor may advise sun protection, camouflage lotions, or creams such as vitiligo vitilox pigmentation cream or an ointment that contains a steroid. Also, further treatment might not be required, depending on factors like the severity of the patch or the natural skin tone. If more treatment is required, a dermatologist may be recommended. Some treatment options include:

Medication for inflammation

A doctor may recommend a corticosteroid cream that can restore colour to the afflicted skin. This works well when vitiligo is still in the beginning stages, and also this kind of cream is efficient and simple to use. However, it can take several months before one notices any changes in the colour of their skin.

One may experience some side effects such as skin thinning or the formation of wrinkles or streaks. But, children and people with significant regions of discoloured skin may be administered milder versions of this medication.

Medication for the immune system

Tacrolimus or pimecrolimus are examples of calcineurin inhibitor ointments that may be useful for persons who have minor depigmentation, particularly on the face and neck. However, this should be used only if prescribed as there is a potential connection between these medications and skin cancer and lymphoma.

Light therapy

Active vitiligo can be treated with narrow-band UVB phototherapy to halt or reduce its progression. Furthermore, when combined with calcineurin inhibitors or corticosteroids, it might be more effective. One might have to undergo therapy two to three times a week. , It may take one to three months to see any change and complete results may take six months or longer.

Removing the depigmentation

If the vitiligo is severe and other therapies haven't helped, this treatment can be an alternative. The skin eventually becomes lighter as a result, blending in with the discoloured parts.

Psoralen and light therapy

To restore colour to the light patches, this treatment combines photochemotherapy with a chemical derived from plants called psoralen. In this treatment, individuals are exposed to UVA light after taking psoralen or applying it to the affected area of the skin. Although effective, this method is more challenging to use and has been supplanted in many clinics by narrow-band UVB therapy.

Here, it is essential to note that, there might be some risks associated with these treatments. Hence, procedures such as pigment removal treatment can be done under expert supervision only. At UnCover, one can get comprehensive guidance and consultation from experienced doctors that can help treat vitiligo. Most importantly, the pigmentation removal treatment is affordable at UnCover and starts only at Rs. 3,000 for 30 minutes.  

Bottom line

Vitiligo treatment options are numerous and include vitiligo pigmentation cream, light therapy, and lasers. Where and how much vitiligo one has, can help decide the treatment. In a few cases, a mix of treatments may be more effective than utilising just one. Regardless, while choosing any treatment procedure it is essential to take expert advice, and one can visit UnCover for effective treatments under the supervision of experienced doctors.