I have vitiligo on about 60 per cent of my body, and there is no family history of the condition. Please recommend some treatment.

For widespread vitiligo without a family history, doctors may consider systemic treatments such as oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to help slow further depigmentation. Phototherapy, especially Narrowband UVB, is often effective for large areas and can support repigmentation. If repigmentation does not occur and the condition stays stable, depigmenting the remaining normal skin may be an option to achieve an even skin tone.

I am currently taking Melanocyl Tablet and Trimop Forte Tablet for vitiligo, along with sun exposure for pigmentation. Some areas have regained pigment, but the condition has not fully improved. Please suggest what further steps I should take.

Partial repigmentation indicates that your current treatment is helping, but you may need specialist guidance for further improvement. Your dermatologist may advise switching from sun exposure to Narrowband UVB phototherapy, which is safer and more targeted. They may also add topical treatments, such as calcineurin inhibitors or corticosteroids, to improve repigmentation in stubborn patches.

I have white or pink patches on my lip that look different in colour. Earlier, I had blisters on my lip. What could this be?

Based on your history of blisters, the patches may be due to post-inflammatory changes in skin colour after the blisters, or they could also be caused by conditions such as vitiligo, eczema, or a fungal infection. You should see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Until then, avoid irritants and protect your lips from the sun to prevent further changes.

I have a lot of sun exposure every day, and I take Melanocyl Tablet for vitiligo. Should I take any precautions?

Yes, Melanocyl Tablet (Methoxsalen) can make your skin very sensitive to sunlight, so you should avoid direct sun exposure for 24 hours before and after taking this medication. Use a high SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours. If you notice redness, burning, or irritation, speak to your dermatologist for further guidance.

What is the best medicine for a faster recovery from vitiligo vulgaris besides steroids?

For faster skin colour recovery in vitiligo vulgaris, narrow-band UVB (NB-UVB) light therapy is considered the most effective treatment after steroids. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (such as tacrolimus) can also help, often used alongside NB-UVB, especially for facial patches. Results may vary depending on skin type and the extent of the disease, and treatment usually needs to be consistent and long-term.

I have vitiligo, and the lesions are causing psychological discomfort. Are psoralens effective for treating vitiligo, and can they improve the lesions?

Psoralens can be effective in treating vitiligo when combined with controlled ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy, as they help stimulate repigmentation. This treatment is typically recommended for individuals with widespread vitiligo or those who have not responded to other therapies, and it can noticeably improve the appearance of the lesions. However, PUVA therapy requires careful monitoring by a dermatologist, as it can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight and may raise the long-term risk of skin cancer.