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Alternative Systemic Treatments for Vitiligo: A Review

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Abstract

Vitiligo is a common, acquired disorder of skin pigmentation that can significantly impact quality of life. It often represents a therapeutic challenge, which has resulted in interest in alternative treatments such as herbal and vitamin supplements. In this review, we provide an overview of the most commonly studied complementary agents, describe proposed mechanisms of action, identify potential adverse effects, and discuss the primary evidence supporting their use. Our discussion focuses on l-phenylalanine, Polypodium leucotomos, khellin, Ginkgo biloba, and vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B12, C, and E, folic acid, and zinc used as monotherapy or in combination with other treatments for the management of vitiligo.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, 240 East 38th Street, New York, NY, 10016, USA

    Brandon E. Cohen, Nada Elbuluk, Euphemia W. Mu & Seth J. Orlow

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  1. Brandon E. Cohen
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  2. Nada Elbuluk
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  3. Euphemia W. Mu
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  4. Seth J. Orlow
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Correspondence to Seth J. Orlow.

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No funding was received for the preparation of this review.

Conflict of interest

Brandon E. Cohen, Nada Elbuluk, Euphemia W. Mu, and Seth J. Orlow have no conflicts of interest to disclose that are relevant to the content of this review. In the past 12 months, Dr. Elbuluk has served as a consultant to Suneva, and Dr Orlow has served as a consultant to Dermira, Galderma, GSK/Stiefel, and Provectus.

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Cohen, B.E., Elbuluk, N., Mu, E.W. et al. Alternative Systemic Treatments for Vitiligo: A Review. Am J Clin Dermatol 16, 463–474 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-015-0153-5

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