In brief
Key points
- ✓Often slower response
- ✓Few follicles
- ✓Fingers and toes especially difficult
- ✓Protection still useful
Biological limits
The density and type of hair follicles differ, and long-standing patches may have fewer cells available to contribute to colour return.
Meaningful goals
Stability, protection, partial response or optional camouflage can all be worthwhile outcomes even when complete repigmentation is unlikely.
Editorial basis: current AWMF S2k guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of vitiligo, register 013-093, version 2.0 dated 27 July 2026. Reviewed on 2 September 2026.
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