Impacts of Topical Treatments and Phototherapy on Stratum Corneum Hydration, Sebum and Elasticity in Vitiligo Skin

Vitiligo is a prevalent depigmentation disorder. Due to the depigmentation and treatments, skin function of patients with vitiligo may be affected, manifested by changes in the stratum corneum (SC) hydration, sebum and elasticity. However, few researchers have paid attention to the skin condition of vitiligo after treatment. A cross-sectional study was conducted. SC hydration, sebum and elasticity of 154 vitiligo lesions were measured to evaluate skin function after topical treatments and phototherapy and investigate potential influencing factors. Treated vitiligo lesions exhibited significantly lower SC hydration and elasticity compared to normal skin, while sebum levels were notably higher. Combined treatments-specifically, 308-nm excimer laser with topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCI) and either topical corticosteroids (TCS) or compound kaliziran tincture (CKT), as well as 308-nm excimer laser with TCI, TCS and CKT-resulted in reduced SC hydration and elasticity as well as increased sebum levels in lesions. Notably, the 308-nm excimer laser had a greater effect on increasing sebum on lesions. Our findings indicate that skin barrier damage and decreased elasticity occur in patients with vitiligo after topical treatments and phototherapy. This underscores the need for enhanced skin management and appropriate post-treatment skin care for patients with vitiligo.