In brief
Key points
- ✓Assessment comes first
- ✓Activity influences the plan
- ✓Response varies by body area
- ✓Treatment often takes months
- ✓Quality of life is part of care
Three possible objectives
- Reduce or stabilise ongoing activity
- Encourage repigmentation
- Maintain colour that has returned
- Support confidence and daily life
Options discussed in specialist care
Depending on the situation, a dermatologist may discuss prescribed topical medicines, narrowband UVB phototherapy, targeted light or specialised procedures. Benefits, limitations, practical burden and risks should be considered together.
A personal choice
Some people prioritise repigmentation, while others focus on sun protection, camouflage or accepting visible differences. These choices are equally legitimate and can change over time.
Editorial basis: AWMF S2k guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of vitiligo, register 013-093, version 2.0 dated 27 July 2026, valid until June 2031. Sources reviewed on 2 September 2026.
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