Clinical research helps us learn more about new potential treatments for conditions like vitiligo.¹ In the past five to 10 years, researchers have found new ways to help with vitiligo symptoms. However, new treatment options are needed to help more people with vitiligo.² Researchers test the safety and efficacy of investigational treatments through clinical trials.¹

Read on to learn about four ways research has helped expand treatment options for vitiligo.

1. JAK Inhibitors

Recently there has been more research into drugs called biologics and small molecule inhibitors to treat autoimmune conditions.^2,3 For vitiligo, one focus is on small molecule inhibitors that target Janus kinase (JAK) pathways.²

In 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a topical JAK inhibitor cream for people 12 and older with nonsegmental vitiligo. It’s the first treatment approved to help restore skin color, or pigment, in people with vitiligo.⁴

Researchers are also studying several different oral JAK inhibitors to see if they can help treat vitiligo.² These drugs are in clinical trials to test their safety and effectiveness. Research on JAK inhibitors aims to develop more treatments that help improve symptoms of vitiligo.²

2. Surgical Devices

Another advancement in vitiligo treatment is in surgical devices. Surgery can help restore skin color. However, it’s recommended only in some cases, like when topical treatments and phototherapies haven’t worked or if your vitiligo is stable and not active, meaning existing patches haven’t grown or new ones haven’t emerged in the last 12 months.⁵ One type of surgery is a cell transplant, in which a surgeon moves healthy skin cells to patches of skin with vitiligo.⁵

In 2023, the FDA approved a surgical device to restore skin color in people with stable vitiligo.⁶ This device uses a laser to collect and transplant healthy skin cells onto areas of skin with vitiligo.⁶

3. Combination Therapy

Health care providers may suggest using multiple treatments together, called combination therapy. Sometimes, medications are used with light therapy to restore skin color.^2,5

Recent research has looked into the safety and efficacy of combining different vitiligo treatments, like surgery with light therapy. This research helps improve treatment guidelines for vitiligo.^2,7,8

4. Treatment Options on the Horizon

Researchers are also exploring other ways to treat vitiligo. Some are looking at drugs that target microRNAs (miRNAs), which may be involved in vitiligo development.⁹ MiRNAs can affect the genes in pigment-producing cells.⁹

There’s also research on treatments targeting regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are immune system cells. Scientists have identified Tregs as a factor involved in the development of vitiligo. Some studies are exploring the use of treatments that activate Tregs and how they affect vitiligo symptoms.²

Another area of research is monoclonal antibodies, which target substances in the immune system that might cause vitiligo.²

Communicate With Your Health Care Provider

Talk to your dermatologist or another health care provider about your vitiligo treatment options. You can also ask about joining clinical trials. Participating in clinical trials can help bring more treatment options in the future.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyVitiligoTeam is the social network for people with vitiligo and their loved ones. Here, over 13,000 members come together to ask questions, offer support and advice, and meet others who understand life with vitiligo.

Are you curious about how research may lead to vitiligo treatment options? Share your thoughts in the comments below or by posting on MyVitiligoTeam.