Question: How long does it take to treat vitiligo?
Answer: Generally, it takes at least three months to see progress from any available vitiligo treatment with some treatment types having no effect for at least six months.
Vitiligo is a permanent condition without a cure but treatments can help address the symptom, white patches, as they appear. Different treatments take longer than others and not all treatments work as well for all people. Anyone with vitiligo may see it spread regardless of undergoing treatment however many have positive results from different treatment options.
Here are some example treatments and how long they take to work:
- PUVA (psolaren and ultraviolet A light) therapy- after six-12 months
- Corticosteroids and medical ointments- about six months
- Depigmentation – six-12 months
- Light therapies – two-18 months
Surgical procedures may bring about change more quickly if they are successful but require a healing period. Treatment lengths and expectations vary greatly and individuals should work with their doctors to determine treatments schedules.