"Vitiligo treatment using Excimer laser: Key details and additional information"
In the realm of dermatology, two lasers have emerged as potential solutions for the treatment of vitiligo: the Ti:Sapphire and the Excimer laser. This article aims to shed light on the current state of research regarding their effectiveness and safety.
Ti:Sapphire lasers, solid-state UVB lasers, have received FDA clearance for treating vitiligo, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. Their targeted UVB emission is known to induce repigmentation in vitiligo, making them a clinically recognized option for vitiligo treatment [1]. In contrast, Excimer lasers, which typically use 308 nm UVB light, have been widely studied and are considered a standard effective treatment for focal vitiligo due to their targeted, high-energy UVB light that stimulates melanocyte activity with relatively minimal side effects.
However, recent specific studies comparing the effectiveness and safety of Ti:Sapphire lasers versus excimer lasers for vitiligo treatment are limited or not explicitly detailed in the latest publicly indexed sources from 2025. While Ti:Sapphire lasers are recognized as a viable option, the most recent comparative effectiveness and safety data versus excimer lasers remain sparse or unpublished in accessible recent sources.
Excimer laser treatment may come with side effects such as blisters on the skin, reddening of the skin, hyperpigmentation, and skin lesions if there is a burn. Despite this, it is a popular choice for treating vitiligo, as it only treats the affected areas, is safe to use on children, and can be used in areas that are difficult to treat with other therapies. After treatment, people with dark skin pigment may notice some of their skin areas are darker in color, but this should resolve within a few months.
The number of sessions required for laser treatment depends on the laser chosen and the severity of the skin condition, with evidence indicating that people will require 20 treatments. Dermatologists use a wand-like device to apply the light directly to the affected skin areas with the excimer laser.
While no explicit head-to-head clinical trial results comparing Ti:Sapphire lasers directly to excimer lasers regarding efficacy or safety were identified in the current search results, it is essential to note that both lasers work via UVB wavelengths and aim to stimulate repigmentation by immunomodulation and melanocyte activation. Variations in wavelength, pulse duration, and delivery system could influence outcomes and safety profiles.
As we move forward, further peer-reviewed clinical trials would be needed to definitively establish comparative advantages between Ti:Sapphire and Excimer lasers for vitiligo treatment. For those seeking specific, up-to-date clinical trial data or meta-analyses, consulting recent dermatology journals or clinical trial registries beyond publicly indexed social and commercial sources may be necessary.
- Ti:Sapphire lasers, approved by the FDA for treating vitiligo, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis, are known for inducing repigmentation in vitiligo, making them a clinically recognized option for vitiligo treatment.
- Excimer lasers, which use 308 nm UVB light and are considered a standard effective treatment for focal vitiligo, stimulate melanocyte activity with relatively minimal side effects, but may result in blisters, reddening of the skin, hyperpigmentation, and skin lesions if there is a burn.
- Despite limited recent studies comparing the effectiveness and safety of Ti:Sapphire lasers versus excimer lasers for vitiligo treatment, both lasers work by stimulating repigmentation through immunomodulation and melanocyte activation, and variations in wavelength, pulse duration, and delivery system could influence outcomes and safety profiles.
- In light of the need for definitive comparative data between Ti:Sapphire and Excimer lasers for vitiligo treatment, further peer-reviewed clinical trials will be required, and consulting recent dermatology journals or clinical trial registries may be necessary for up-to-date information.
