How effective is cortisone cream for vitiligo repigmentation?
Corticosteroid (cortisone) creams are one of the most commonly prescribed first-line treatments for vitiligo. They work by calming the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can help stop melanocytes from being attacked — giving them a chance to recover Show Full Answer
How effective is cortisone cream for vitiligo repigmentation?
Corticosteroid (cortisone) creams are one of the most commonly prescribed first-line treatments for vitiligo. They work by calming the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can help stop melanocytes from being attacked — giving them a chance to recover and produce pigment again.
They tend to work best on:
- The upper body
- Darker skin tones
- Newer patches
- Sun-exposed areas
Many people begin to see results after about three months of use. That said, they're not without risks. Side effects to be aware of include:
- Thinning or drying of the skin
- Stretch marks
- Acne
These risks increase with long-term use and higher-potency formulas. For that reason, dermatologists usually recommend using the mildest effective strength for the shortest time possible.
An alternative worth asking about is tacrolimus (a calcineurin inhibitor), which works similarly but doesn't cause skin thinning — making it a good option for sensitive areas like the face. Always work closely with a dermatologist to find the right approach for your specific situation.
3 days ago
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