Affecting 70+ Million People Worldwide
Leukoderma is a condition where those affected have white patches on the skin. These patches are due to partial or total loss of skin pigmentation. Vitiligo is a specific type of leukoderma.
Contrary to popular misconceptions, vitiligo is not just a cosmetic issue, but a serious autoimmune disease, which is psychologically devastating and socially isolating. Although it is not contagious, people often react as if it is.
Vitiligo, which affects all races but is most visible in individuals with darker skin, has no FDA-approved pharmaceuticals specifically for treatment, however, UVB light therapy has been scientifically shown to return skin pigmentation with treatments over time.
UVB Benefits
• Slows down melanocyte cell destruction
• Stimulates melanogenesis & cell proliferation on residual melanocytes
• Lymphocyte Apoptosis
• Stimulates skin recovery
• Treats even on hard-to-reach or sensitive areas
• Possible side effects (restricted erythema and sunburn)
UVB Applications
• Is considered standard of treatment for vitiligo
• Treats Vitiligo depigmentation Stage I & II (from moderate to severe)
• Up to 3 treatment sessions a week are ideal
• Can be used after or in combination with topical treatments
• Areas with hair follicles repigment fastest, and provide the best results (e.g. face, upper arms, upper legs, chest, back, buttocks)
Vitiligo before and after 22 weeks of treatment. Photos courtesy Dr. Sakhiya