Vitiligo Treatment London

Vitiligo affects the way your skin produces pigment, creating lighter or white patches that can develop anywhere on the face or body. Although harmless to your physical health, changes in skin colour can be a concern, particularly when the affected areas are visible or continue to spread.

At Continental Skin Clinic, we offer advanced, targeted light therapy for suitable cases of vitiligo, using Exciplex® 308nm excimer light technology.

Our approach combines careful skin assessment, personalised treatment planning and ongoing progress monitoring, with the aim of encouraging natural repigmentation while protecting the health of your skin.

What Is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a long-term autoimmune skin condition that causes areas of skin to lose their natural colour. It develops when the immune system attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. As these cells are damaged or lost, the affected skin becomes lighter or completely white.

Vitiligo can affect any skin tone and may develop at any age. It can remain limited to a few patches or gradually affect additional areas over time. Commonly affected areas include the face, lips, hands, arms, legs and areas around the body’s natural openings. The contrast between affected and unaffected skin may be particularly noticeable in people with naturally darker skin tones, although the condition itself can affect anyone.

Vitiligo is not contagious and does not pose a risk to others. While there is currently no definitive cure, several treatments may help manage the condition and encourage the return of pigment in suitable patients.

How Do We Treat Vitiligo at Continental Skin Clinic?

We use Exciplex® 308nm Excimer Light Therapy, an advanced form of targeted UVB phototherapy designed to treat specific patches of affected skin. Unlike full-body phototherapy, which exposes larger areas of skin to ultraviolet light, Exciplex delivers a controlled dose of light directly to the areas requiring treatment. This targeted approach allows us to focus on individual patches while limiting unnecessary UV exposure to surrounding skin. In suitable cases, Exciplex can help stimulate the processes involved in repigmentation, encouraging pigment-producing cells to become active within the affected areas. Over a course of treatments, some patients experience a gradual return of colour, helping to reduce the contrast between vitiligo patches and their surrounding skin.

Results vary, and not every patch will respond in the same way.

How Does Exciplex® Help Restore Skin Pigmentation?

Exciplex delivers monochromatic excimer light at a wavelength of 308nm, within the ultraviolet B spectrum. This wavelength has been studied for its role in treating localised vitiligo. The treatment works through two main mechanisms.

Supporting Repigmentation

Targeted UVB light can encourage melanocyte activity and help stimulate the return of pigment within affected areas where functioning pigment-producing cells remain.

Repigmentation often begins as small areas of colour appearing within or around the edges of a vitiligo patch. These may gradually develop and blend with the surrounding skin over time.

Modulating Local Immune Activity

Because vitiligo is an autoimmune condition, repigmentation is not simply about stimulating pigment production.

Targeted UVB therapy can also influence immune activity within the treated skin, helping to create conditions that may support pigment recovery.

The overall response depends on the type and activity of vitiligo, the affected area and individual biological factors.

Which Areas of Vitiligo Can Be Treated?

Exciplex may be considered for localised vitiligo affecting several areas of the face and body, including:

• Face and neck
• Arms and elbows
• Hands and fingers
• Legs and knees
• Trunk and other suitable body areas

Not all areas respond equally.

Vitiligo affecting the face and neck often responds more favourably to phototherapy, while areas such as the fingers, hands and feet can be considerably more resistant. Patches containing white hair may also be more difficult to repigment. We assess each area individually and explain where meaningful improvement may be more or less likely before recommending treatment.

Why Choose Targeted 308nm Light Therapy?

Precise Treatment of Affected Areas

Exciplex allows individual patches to be treated without the need for full-body UVB exposure.

Non-Invasive Technology

Treatment does not require injections, surgery or removal of the skin’s surface.

Short Treatment Sessions

The light application itself can take only a few minutes for small areas, although additional time is required for preparation, assessment and documentation.

Personalised UVB Dosing

Treatment settings are selected and adjusted according to your skin, the location of the patches and your response to previous sessions.

Suitable for Different Skin Tones

Targeted light therapy may be considered for patients across a range of skin tones, including darker and melanin-rich skin, following an appropriate clinical assessment.

Progress Monitoring

Clinical photographs and regular reviews help us monitor repigmentation and assess whether your treatment plan remains appropriate.

A Different Approach to Pigmentation

At Continental Skin Clinic, pigmentation is one of our key areas of expertise. Many of our existing technologies and signature protocols, including ToneTX™, focus on hyperpigmentation — areas where the skin produces too much pigment. Vitiligo presents the opposite challenge: a loss of pigment. Introducing Exciplex allows us to expand our services to address both sides of pigmentation concerns, using different technologies suited to the underlying condition.

Our aim is not simply to make skin appear lighter or darker. It is to understand what is causing changes in skin colour and recommend appropriate, evidence-informed treatments. For patients with vitiligo, this means focusing on the condition itself and assessing whether repigmentation therapy is appropriate, rather than using conventional pigmentation lasers designed to reduce excess melanin.

Your Vitiligo Treatment Journey

1. Consultation & Diagnosis

Your treatment journey begins with a detailed assessment of your skin. We will discuss when your patches first appeared, whether they have changed or spread, any previous treatments and your relevant medical history. We will also review medications, photosensitivity and other factors that could affect suitability for UVB treatment. Because not every white or pale patch is caused by vitiligo, a confirmed diagnosis is important. If the diagnosis is uncertain or the condition requires specialist medical care, further assessment or a dermatology referral may be recommended before treatment.

2. Personalised Treatment Planning

We assess the size, location and extent of the affected areas and discuss the response you may realistically expect. Clinical photographs may be taken to establish a baseline, and UV sensitivity testing may be carried out to guide safe starting doses. We will explain the recommended frequency, treatment costs and anticipated review points before you begin.

3. Light Therapy

During treatment, the Laser handpiece is positioned over the affected patches to deliver a controlled dose of UVB light. Small areas may require approximately five minutes of light application, with extra time for preparation and clinical documentation. Larger or multiple areas may require a longer appointment. Treatment is generally well tolerated, although temporary redness, warmth or discomfort can occur.

4. Monitoring & Progress Reviews

Repigmentation takes time and develops differently from patient to patient. Your practitioner will monitor the skin’s response, adjust dosing where appropriate and review clinical photographs to track changes. If the affected areas are not responding as expected, we will discuss whether continued phototherapy is appropriate.

How Many Vitiligo Treatment Sessions Will I Need?

Vitiligo repigmentation is a gradual process and usually requires a course of repeated sessions. Targeted light therapy is commonly performed around twice per week, depending on the patient’s condition and clinical treatment plan.

Changes may begin to appear after several weeks, but a longer course may be needed to determine how well the affected areas respond. Some patients develop noticeable repigmentation, while others achieve more limited improvement.

The total number of sessions cannot be reliably predicted at the outset. Factors such as the location, age and activity of the patches all influence the outcome. We recommend regular progress reviews to assess whether continued treatment is worthwhile.

Is Vitiligo Treatment Right for You?

Laser may be suitable for people with diagnosed, localised vitiligo who wish to explore treatment aimed at encouraging repigmentation. However, not everyone with pigment loss will benefit from targeted UVB therapy.

You may require further assessment or an alternative treatment approach if you have:

– Widespread vitiligo requiring a different phototherapy approach.
– Rapidly progressing disease requiring additional medical management.
– A history of certain skin cancers or photosensitivity disorders.
– Medication or medical conditions that increase sensitivity to ultraviolet light.
– White patches caused by conditions other than vitiligo.

Suitability is established through individual clinical assessment, rather than skin tone or appearance alone.

What Results Can You Expect?

The aim of treatment is to encourage the return of natural pigment within suitable areas of vitiligo. Where treatment is effective, repigmentation may develop as small dots or islands of colour, gradually expanding within the affected skin. The amount of improvement varies between patients and treatment areas. Some patches may respond well, while others may show little or no change. Complete repigmentation is not guaranteed, and pigment gained through treatment may be lost again in the future. Vitiligo itself may also continue to develop in previously unaffected areas. We believe patients should understand both the potential benefits and limitations before committing to a treatment course.

Recovery, Side Effects & Aftercare

Most patients can resume their usual daily activities following Exciplex treatment. However, the treatment uses therapeutic ultraviolet light and can cause temporary reactions, including:

– Redness or warmth in the treated area.
– Mild itching or dryness.
– Temporary darkening of treated skin.
– A sunburn-like reaction.
– Less commonly, blistering or crusting.

The long-term risks of repeated excimer lamp treatment are not fully established. Like other forms of UVB phototherapy, cumulative UV exposure may carry potential risks, including photoageing and skin cancer. Your practitioner will discuss these risks, monitor your skin and provide appropriate aftercare instructions. Sun protection is especially important for people with vitiligo because depigmented skin has reduced natural protection against UV radiation.

Vitiligo Treatment Prices

The cost of treatment depends on the number, size and location of the areas being treated, as well as the appointment time required. We offer individual treatments and may recommend a course of sessions depending on your condition and treatment goals. During your consultation, we will discuss the recommended approach, appointment frequency and full treatment costs so you can decide whether to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can vitiligo be cured permanently?

There is currently no definitive cure for vitiligo. Some treatments can encourage repigmentation or help manage the condition, but results may not be permanent, and new areas of pigment loss can develop.

What is the best treatment for vitiligo?

There is no single treatment that is best for everyone. Options include topical medicines, phototherapy and other specialist treatments, depending on the type, extent and activity of vitiligo.

Exciplex may be a suitable option for selected localised patches, but other treatments may be more appropriate for widespread or rapidly progressing disease.

Is Exciplex a vitiligo laser treatment?

Not technically. Exciplex uses a 308nm excimer UVB lamp, rather than a laser beam.

Excimer lasers and excimer lamps are both used for targeted phototherapy, but they use different technologies.

At Continental Skin Clinic, our Exciplex treatment uses specialised excimer light technology.

Can vitiligo be treated on the face?

Yes, targeted UVB phototherapy may be considered for facial vitiligo in suitable patients. Facial patches often respond better than areas such as the hands and feet.

Treatment near the eyes requires particular care and appropriate protection.

Does vitiligo treatment work on darker skin?

Laser may be considered for different skin tones, including darker skin, but dosing and monitoring must be personalised. Repigmentation may be particularly noticeable when previously white patches begin to regain colour, although temporary pigmentation differences can also occur.

Can Exciplex treat hypopigmentation caused by lasers, burns or scars?

Not all hypopigmentation responds to excimer light therapy. Pigment loss following injury, inflammation or aesthetic procedures may have a different cause from vitiligo. We recommend an assessment before considering treatment, and Exciplex should not be assumed to be effective for these conditions.

Is vitiligo treatment painful?

Most patients tolerate Exciplex well. The treatment does not involve needles or injections, but some patients experience warmth, redness or temporary discomfort afterwards.

How frequently will I need treatment?

Excimer light therapy is commonly performed around twice weekly. Your treatment frequency and progress review schedule will be tailored to your individual circumstances.

Can vitiligo spread during treatment?

Yes. Vitiligo may remain stable or continue to spread regardless of treatment. Phototherapy does not guarantee that new patches will stop developing.

Can I have Exciplex alongside other vitiligo treatments?

Sometimes. Dermatologists may recommend phototherapy alongside certain prescribed topical medicines where appropriate. Any combination treatment must be reviewed by the responsible clinician because potential benefits and risks depend on the specific medicines and treatment plan.

What if I choose not to treat my vitiligo?

Treatment is a personal choice. Vitiligo does not always require intervention, and some people prefer to manage it with sun protection, camouflage products or no appearance-changing treatment. Our role is to explain the available options and help you make an informed decision.

Living with vitiligo is different for everyone, and so is the decision to seek treatment.

At Continental Skin Clinic, our approach is based on understanding your skin, discussing realistic outcomes and recommending treatments that are appropriate for your individual circumstances. With Exciplex® 308nm Light Therapy, we can offer targeted phototherapy for selected cases of vitiligo as part of our wider commitment to pigmentation and skin health.