If you suffer from vitiligo (white patches of skin in different parts of the body), it may feel like a hopeless situation. But don’t despair; you may be relieved that modern phototherapy is successful in at least 80% of cases. This revolutionary technology has allowed thousands of people suffering from vitiligo to control and even reverse the disease. Let’s discuss this fantastic therapy option and how it can help you.
A few words about vitiligo
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease that causes loss of skin color in the form of white patches. It can occur in any part of the body and even affect the hairline or the inside of the mouth.
The color of human skin and hair depends on the pigment melanin. The cells producing melanin (called melanocytes) stop working in someone suffering from vitiligo. They either die or stop doing their job. You can use UV Lamps for Vitiligo to reduce the symptoms of the disease.
Vitiligo affects people with different skin types, but the disease is more noticeable in people with dark skin. Most often, it manifests itself at an early age, from 10 to 30 years, and is hereditary.
How does phototherapy work?
Phototherapy treatment for skin conditions uses ultraviolet light to slow the growth of skin cells. It is essentially the same type of light as natural solar radiation, but it has been specially filtered to deliver only those wavelengths that stimulate repigmentation.
Phototherapy is carried out under the supervision of a doctor or at home with a particular installation. Equipment sizes can range from small wands that can be held in the hands to large panels or cabinets that allow the entire body to be treated. When choosing a device, there are several factors to consider:
- Make sure the equipment is suitable for the treatment of vitiligo.
- Research different brands and models, comparing them based on functionality, portability, cost, and user reviews.
- Be sure to ask your doctor which type of light therapy will be most effective in your case.
The number of sessions required each week depends on the severity and rate of progression of vitiligo. Sessions gradually increase in length as treatment progresses, depending on how your skin responds to light. During treatment, the patient undergoes light therapy using a specific amount of light controlled or prescribed by the doctor. Repigmentation takes on the appearance of freckles and will spread to fill in the white spots.
Key benefits of phototherapy at home
Although light therapy is one of the most popular treatments for skin conditions, it does not promise that you will be able to get rid of all the symptoms of vitiligo after the first session. This type of home therapy must be done frequently, 2-3 times a week, to maintain results. The procedure must be carried out carefully since some risks, including burns, accompany excessive use.
Some of the benefits of treating vitiligo with UV lamps include:
- Comfort: you can save time and money by performing the procedure at home without visiting a specialist.
- Safety: vitiligo treatment with ultraviolet light is considered one of the most effective ways to reduce symptoms.
- Investment: modern companies offer a wide range of UV lamps, from portable to full-size solutions, so you can find the right solution regardless of your budget. Such equipment has a long service life and is a good investment in long-term therapy.
Remember that treating vitiligo is a long process. According to experts, the patient can expect 25% repigmentation after three months and 50% after a year. It may take one year or more to see complete repigmentation. However, the sooner you start treatment, the easier it is to recover!
