Vitiligo or leukoderma is the loss of pigment in the skin, resulting in inconsistent patches. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body, but patches are typically found on areas that are exposed to the sun. Pigment-producing cells called melanocytes stop producing or die all together, causing skin to lighten. Vitiligo provides little physical discomfort, but it can cause emotional side effects.
Narrowband UVB light phototherapy devices have proven to be highly effective in the re-pigmentation process. They work by stimulating the production of melanocytes. In a study conducted in Italy, more than 95% of patients experienced repigmentation as a result of phototherapy.1
The process is slow, often lasting months, but treatment for up to 10 minutes only 2-3 times per week can yield favorable results. National Biological Corporation manufactures a range of devices for the treatment of vitiligo. Our most popular units include the six foot PANOSOL 6 for moderate to severe vitiligo, the HANDISOL® for more moderate patches, and the DERMALUME 2X™ wand for small areas.
“Narrow-band ultra-violet light B…is currently the most successful treatment for patients with vitiligo.”
-UMass Medical School Vitiligo Clinic and Research Center. “Treatments.”
1 Percivalle S., et al. “Narrowband UVB Phototherapy in Vitiligo: Evaluation of Results in 53 Patients.” Giornale Italiano di Dermatolgo e Venereologia. Feb 2008.
