Vitiligo is a skin condition that affects the pigmentation of certain areas of the skin. While this condition is not painful or a health risk, it can be unsightly and affect a person’s appearance in unwanted ways, especially if it appears on very noticeable areas like the face or hands. Fortunately, Glendale Dermatology has effective treatments available.
What Is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a disease wherein patches of skin lose their pigment because the melanocytes, the cells that produce that pigment, die or go dormant. These patches may occur on the hands and face, all over the body, symmetrically on each side of the body, on one side of the body, or in certain distinct areas.
Vitiligo Causes
This condition is caused by the death or cessation of functioning of melanin-producing cells. This issue appears to be an autoimmune disorder with a hereditary component, and can be triggered by sunburn, stress, or skin trauma. There is no cure for vitiligo but it can be effectively treated with laser therapy.
Laser Treatment for Vitiligo Skin
At Glendale Dermatology, we treat vitiligo with the XTRAC® Laser. During the procedure, a special handpiece sends a beam of focused laser light to the affected skin using a liquid light guided delivery system. This light energy restores pigmentation to the affected area without damaging the surrounding skin. Side effects can include some redness and tenderness immediately following the procedure, although the procedure itself is not painful. We have seen repigmentation in as few as 6-12 treatments and full repigmentation in as few as 30. Laser repigmentation can last for a year or more.
Laser Vitiligo Disease Treatment in Queens, NY
Vitiligo can be embarrassing and hurt one’s self-esteem, but the good news is that there are treatment options available. To set up a skin consultation and find out if you are a candidate for laser therapy, simply contact us by filling out and submitting the form on this page.