Vitiligo phototherapy — narrowband UVB and excimer light explained

Key facts

• Narrowband UVB for widespread vitiligo; excimer for small areas
• Usually 2–3 sessions per week for months
• Face and trunk respond better than hands and feet
• Often combined with prescription creams
• Dr. Anis supervises care and refers to a phototherapy unit when indicated

How phototherapy works for vitiligo

In vitiligo, the immune system attacks melanocytes, the cells that make skin pigment, leaving white patches. Narrowband UVB phototherapy uses a specific, narrow band of ultraviolet light that calms this immune activity and stimulates remaining pigment cells, especially those in hair follicles, to multiply and migrate into the white skin. Repigmentation often begins as small brown dots around hairs that gradually join up. Whole-body narrowband UVB is used for more widespread vitiligo, while excimer light or laser delivers the same wavelength to small, targeted areas. Both are carried out in specialised phototherapy units with carefully measured doses.

Who is a good candidate

Phototherapy is often considered for non-segmental vitiligo affecting a larger area, for vitiligo that is spreading, or when creams alone have not been enough. Areas with hair, such as the face, neck and trunk, tend to respond better than the hands, feet, lips and fingertips, where hair follicles are scarce. Segmental vitiligo, which affects one side of the body, responds differently and may need other approaches. Dr. Abdullah Anis assesses the type, extent and activity of your vitiligo, your skin type, any history of skin cancer or light sensitivity, and medicines that increase sun sensitivity before recommending phototherapy.

Sessions, timeline and expectations

Narrowband UVB is typically given two to three times per week, starting with a low dose that is increased gradually. Each session is short, often lasting seconds to a few minutes. Early repigmentation may appear after two to three months, and a meaningful response is usually assessed after six months; treatment may continue for a year or more if improvement continues. Results vary considerably from person to person, and complete repigmentation is not always achieved. Combining phototherapy with topical treatments, such as calcineurin inhibitors, steroids or newer JAK-inhibitor creams, can improve response in suitable patients.

Safety and side effects

Common side effects include temporary redness similar to mild sunburn, dryness and itching. Eyes are protected with goggles during treatment, and certain areas may be shielded. Because phototherapy involves ultraviolet light, the cumulative number of sessions is recorded and the skin is checked periodically over time. Patients should tell the team about any new medicines, especially those that increase light sensitivity. Between sessions, sun protection on treated skin remains important, because white patches burn easily. Dr. Abdullah Anis explains these points so you can weigh benefits and practical commitment before starting.

Referral options and combined care at Manhal

Phototherapy requires dedicated equipment and frequent visits, so convenience matters. When phototherapy is suitable, Dr. Abdullah Anis can refer you to an appropriate phototherapy unit and continue to supervise your overall vitiligo care at Manhal, including prescription creams, monitoring of disease activity and advice on camouflage and sun protection. He also checks for associated conditions, such as thyroid disease, when relevant. Seek review if patches spread rapidly, if treated skin blisters or burns, or if you notice any new, changing or unusual spot on skin that has received light treatment.

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Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.