Comparison · Repigmentation pathways · 6 min read
Phototherapy vs Topicals for Vitiligo
Two foundational pathways — and most patients need both, not one.
Your decision stage
- 01Research
- 02Comparison
- 03Evaluation
- 04Decision
- 05Ready
Decision tool · 4 min
Vitiligo Treatment Explorer
If this article is the right read for where you are, the Vitiligo Treatment Explorer is the right next step. Identify your disease activity, candidacy and the right treatment sequence.
Quick answer
Key takeaways
- 01Topicals: at-home, daily, smaller areas
- 02Phototherapy: clinic, 2–3× weekly, broader coverage
- 03Combination outperforms either alone
- 04Facial patches respond fastest; acral patches slowest
Decision tool · 4 min
Vitiligo Treatment Explorer
Identify your disease activity, candidacy and the right treatment sequence.
FAQs
Asked often.
How many phototherapy sessions before I see change?
+
Visible response typically by month 3–4; meaningful response by month 9–12. Consistency is the single biggest predictor of outcome.
The decision arc
- 01
Research
Understand what the category contains and which paths exist.
- 02
Comparison
Weigh approaches side-by-side and rule out the wrong-fit paths.
- 03
Evaluation
Confirm candidacy and pressure-test your shortlist.
- 04
Decision
Prepare specific questions and de-risk the final commitment.
Personalized Guidance
Where are you in the decision?
AltisPath places you on the arc from exploration to consultation-ready — so the next step is the right one, not just the next available one.
Take the assessment →Decision tool · 4 min
Vitiligo Treatment Explorer
Decision tools are the primary way patients turn insight into a plan on AltisPath. The Vitiligo Treatment Explorer produces a personalised report you can take to any provider — privately, before contact.
Continue your journey
The next step, recommended.
Explore your treatment path
Insight is the beginning. A plan is the point.
Move from reading to a personalized report and tailored next steps — privately, on your own time.
Editorial standards
Treatment decision content reviewed by practicing dermatologists and plastic surgeons before publication.
- 01Drafted by the AltisPath decision-content team
- 02Reviewed by a practicing clinician in the relevant specialty
- 03Cross-checked against current Indian clinical practice
- 04Updated when guidelines or pricing change materially
Medical disclaimer: AltisPath is a treatment decision and guidance platform. This article is educational and is not a substitute for a personal medical consultation. Treatment decisions should be made with a qualified clinician who has reviewed your individual case.