How to Stop Vitiligo from Spreading: 5 Dermatologist-Backed Tips

Vitiligo can be unpredictable, but there are proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk of it spreading. As a consultant-led dermatology clinic in Maida Vale, Central London, we help patients manage vitiligo with the latest evidence-based treatments and personalised care.

What Causes Vitiligo to Spread?

Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition where pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) are destroyed, leading to white patches on the skin. While not contagious or life-threatening, the condition can gradually spread over time—especially when triggered by certain factors such as skin trauma, stress, infections, or inflammation.

5 Dermatologist-Backed Tips to Stop Vitiligo from Spreading

1. Protect Skin from Trauma and Sunburn

Any physical injury or inflammation can trigger new vitiligo patches. This includes cuts, scrapes, burns, or even excessive rubbing. This is known as the Koebner phenomenon. Apply SPF 50+ daily, avoid aggressive skincare, and wear protective clothing to minimise trauma.

2. Treat Active Inflammation Early

Redness, itching or irritation on or near depigmented patches may signal active disease. Your dermatologist may prescribe topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, or phototherapy (like Excimer UVB) to calm inflammation and prevent spread.

3. Support Immune Balance with Professional Care

Because vitiligo is autoimmune, managing your overall immune health can help reduce flare-ups. This includes treating infections, managing thyroid conditions, and addressing co-existing autoimmune issues with support from your GP or specialist.

4. Reduce Psychological Stress

Stress doesn’t directly cause vitiligo, but it’s strongly linked to disease progression. At Skinhorizon Clinic, we take a holistic approach—supporting both physical and emotional well-being through education, mindfulness tips, and sometimes referral to a psychologist if needed.

5. Start Early Treatment with Excimer UVB or Topicals

The earlier you start treatment, the better your chance of repigmentation and halting spread. Our vitiligo treatment plans often include Excimer UVB phototherapy, which targets patches precisely with minimal UV exposure to healthy skin.

When to See a Consultant Dermatologist

If your vitiligo is spreading quickly, affecting your face, hands, or genitals, or impacting your mental well-being, it’s time to seek specialist input. At Skinhorizon Clinic, we offer consultant-led, evidence-based care tailored to your individual skin type and disease activity.

How We Treat Vitiligo at Skinhorizon Clinic

We use a combination of:

• Excimer UVB Laser Therapy (GME technology)
• Topical corticosteroids or tacrolimus creams
• Cosmetic camouflage and makeup support
• Psychological support and lifestyle advice
• Ongoing skin monitoring

We also offer Wood’s lamp diagnostic examination to assess subtle pigment loss invisible to the naked eye.

Frequently Asked Questions