How to Stop Vitiligo from Spreading: 5 Expert‑Backed Tips from a Dermatologist in London

If you’ve noticed new pale patches or worried that your vitiligo is spreading, you’re not alone. While there isn’t a guaranteed way to “switch off” vitiligo in every case, a consultant‑led plan can slow activity, encourage repigmentation, and protect your skin long‑term. This London‑focused guide outlines five practical, evidence‑based steps we use at Skinhorizon Clinic in Maida Vale to help patients across Central London, West London, St John’s Wood and Paddington.

1) Confirm What’s Active — Get a Proper Diagnosis

The first step is understanding where your vitiligo is active and how it behaves. In clinic, we examine your skin and use a Wood’s lamp to highlight subtle borders and early lesions that look normal in daylight. This helps us target treatment precisely and track stability over time.

• See our diagnostic tools: Wood’s lamp and optional digital skin analysis.
• Read more about the condition: Vitiligo.

2) Treat Early with the Right Topicals

Early, targeted topical therapy can calm inflammation at the edges of patches and reduce further spread. We typically use calcineurin inhibitors and, for short windows on selected sites, appropriately cycled corticosteroids. Application technique, potency and timing matter — especially on the face, hands and delicate areas.

Your consultant will tailor a regimen for your skin type and lifestyle, with clear “flare vs maintenance” instructions to keep things simple and safe.

3) Use Targeted Light to Encourage Repigmentation

308 nm Excimer UVB is a precise, clinic‑grade light therapy that can help repigment small, localised patches — particularly on the face. It’s delivered only to affected areas, limiting exposure. We build realistic session plans and measure progress.

• Learn about Excimer: 308 nm Excimer UVB.
• Comfort support between sessions: LED phototherapy.

4) Be Sun‑Smart (Without Hiding Indoors)

Sun can trigger redness and contrast, and — in some — new lesions (Koebner phenomenon) after sunburn. We teach a balanced approach: daily broad‑spectrum SPF, shade and hats on bright days, and gentle routines that won’t irritate your barrier. For visible areas, high‑tolerance camouflage can improve confidence while you repigment.

5) Reduce Friction & Stress on the Skin

Repeated rubbing, tight straps, harsh exfoliation and scratch‑prone dryness can aggravate vitiligo. We minimise friction on common sites (waistbands, elbows, hands) and build a simple, fragrance‑free routine to keep the skin calm. If itch is an issue, we address dryness and triggers so you’re not tempted to scratch.

What Results to Expect (and When)

Repigmentation is gradual and varies by site and duration. Early “freckling” often appears around hair follicles within weeks of starting an appropriate plan, with progressive blending over months. Some sites (face) respond faster than others (hands/feet). Your plan includes periodic reviews so we can adjust and maintain gains.

Your Next Step in London

If you’re noticing new areas or want to stabilise vitiligo sooner, a structured, consultant‑led plan is the most effective path. Explore our pathway here: Vitiligo treatment.

FAQs: Stopping Vitiligo from Spreading