How to treat vitiligo that has spread extensively on the body?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on May 23, 2025
00:00
00:00

Vitiligo is related to reduced immunity, genetic inheritance, copper deficiency in the body, or localized trauma. In some people, the condition can develop quickly, with small white patches appearing and then rapidly spreading over the body in a short period. If this occurs, it is advisable to seek standardized treatment at a dermatology department of a reputable hospital, where oral medications and topical applications are used in combination with 308 laser treatment for faster effects. If the condition does not respond well to treatment, small doses of oral steroids may be used to manage it. During treatment, it is recommended to avoid spicy and irritating foods, not stay up late, eat more black-colored foods, avoid consuming too much vitamin C-rich food, engage in more exercise, and strengthen immunity.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
55sec home-news-image

How to determine if the white patches on the face are vitiligo

The most common diagnostic methods for vitiligo currently are the Wood's lamp and a dermatoscope. If white patches appear on the face, it is best to visit the dermatology department of a formal hospital for an examination with a dermatoscope and Wood's lamp, which can essentially determine whether it is vitiligo. If the white patches appear around the mouth, beside the nose, or near the eyes, there is a higher probability that these are vitiligo. If the white patches develop on the eyebrows or where there is hair, and if the hair also starts turning white, it can generally be confirmed as vitiligo. If diagnosed with vitiligo, it is necessary to seek treatment promptly. Generally, a combination of oral and topical medications along with 308 laser treatment can be quite effective. Additionally, some facial white patches may simply be pityriasis versicolor, which is somewhat related to fungal infections.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
28sec home-news-image

What fruits can people with vitiligo eat?

Any type of fruit can be consumed as long as it is done normally, appropriately, and in moderation. Even fruits rich in vitamin C have little impact on vitiligo. Consuming fresh fruits normally provides various vitamins and trace elements, which are beneficial to the human body. However, long-term excessive intake of vitamin C-rich foods, medications, or fruits may trigger vitiligo.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
54sec home-news-image

Can late-stage vitiligo be life-threatening?

Generally speaking clinically, vitiligo does not have a concept of a late stage, but if the disease has been present for a long time and covers a large area, treatment can be troublesome. Vitiligo poses no harm to life and health; even if the affected area is large, it does not threaten life, but treatment can be troublesome, requiring long-term commitment and substantial costs. Once detected, it is best to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a standard hospital. Generally, doctors will formulate a treatment plan based on the individual's condition. The combination of oral medication, topical medication, and 308 laser therapy is currently the most effective method for treating vitiligo. During the treatment period, it is also important to strengthen physical exercise to enhance immunity, helping to prevent the complete loss of melanin after it is deposited.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
59sec home-news-image

Can patients with vitiligo use mobile phones?

Generally speaking, playing with mobile phones does not affect patients with vitiligo, but it is important not to stay up late while using them. If staying up late regularly leads to a decreased immune function, it can worsen the symptoms of vitiligo. Vitiligo is mainly associated with reduced immunity, genetic heritage, a lack of copper in the body, or local trauma. Once detected, it is crucial to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a reputable hospital. Oral medication combined with topical drugs, along with the 308 laser treatment, yields better results. Consuming more black-colored foods is recommended, while it is best to avoid consuming too much food rich in vitamin C. If long-term treatment is ineffective, melanin transplantation can also be considered. It is essential to undergo formal treatment; otherwise, the affected area may continue to expand, and the difficulty of treatment will also increase.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
46sec home-news-image

What is generalized vitiligo?

Generalized vitiligo, as opposed to localized vitiligo, generally covers larger areas and can appear on various parts of the body, while localized vitiligo typically occurs in only one area, such as the palms or around the mouth. Once this disease is discovered, especially generalized vitiligo, it must be treated properly; otherwise, the affected area can increase, making treatment more difficult later on. Treatment should be sought at a reputable hospital's dermatology department, where a combination of oral medication, topical medication, and 308 laser therapy can be effective. During treatment, it's important to exercise to strengthen the immune system, avoid foods rich in vitamin C, and consume more dark-colored foods, which can help in the production of melanin.