Vitiligo is a skin condition in which melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment, are lost or damaged, resulting in lighter or white patches on different parts of the body. These patches may appear on the face, hands, elbows, knees, legs and other areas. In some people, the hair growing within affected areas may also turn white or grey. While vitiligo is not usually painful, changes in skin pigmentation can affect a person’s confidence and quality of life. Laser treatment for vitiligo in Mumbai may be considered as part of a dermatologist-supervised approach for suitable patients.
Vitiligo occurs when melanocytes are destroyed or become unable to produce normal amounts of melanin. The condition can affect people of different ages and skin types, and its pattern can vary considerably from one person to another.
Vitiligo may affect areas that are exposed to sunlight, such as the hands, face, arms and legs. It can also involve areas around the lips and other mucosal surfaces. In certain cases, pigmentation changes may also affect the hair, eyes or other structures.
Because vitiligo can have different patterns and causes, an evaluation by a qualified dermatologist is important before choosing a treatment. A Dermatologist in Mumbai can assess the affected areas, determine the extent of depigmentation and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
One of the laser-based approaches used for selected vitiligo patches is the 308 nm excimer laser. It uses concentrated ultraviolet B (UVB) light and delivers it directly to the affected skin. The objective is to stimulate repigmentation while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy skin.
At Viva Aesthetic Clinic, the treatment is customized according to the patient’s skin condition and response to therapy. Before treatment, Dr. Deepam Shah determines an appropriate dose. For a new patient, a MED or Minimum Erythema Dose test may be performed to help establish the suitable UVB dose.
During the procedure, the handheld device is positioned directly over the vitiligo patch. Individual sessions can generally take only a few minutes, although treatment time depends on the number and size of areas being treated.
**Laser treatment for vitiligo in Mumbai may be considered for patients with localized or specific vitiligo patches where targeted phototherapy is appropriate. However, suitability depends on several factors, including:**
Location and size of the vitiligo patchesExtent and pattern of depigmentationStability or activity of the conditionPrevious treatments and their responseSkin type and individual treatment responseOverall skin health
A consultation allows the doctor to examine the affected areas and determine whether excimer laser treatment or another vitiligo therapy would be more appropriate.