Micropigmentation for the treatment of vitiligo.

A technique of permanent dermal micropigmentation using a nonallergenic iron oxide pigment to cover recalcitrant areas of vitiligo is described. The areas included in this study were the distal digits, the lips, hands, wrists, axillae, elbows, hairline, perioral area, and lower legs. The immediate postmicropigmentation results invariably showed dramatic aesthetic improvements. There was a moderate degree of fading in the majority of cases, most of which occurred within the first six weeks. The pigment that remained usually persisted with minimal to no further fading. Short- and long-term complications, which were few, mild, and resolved fully, are discussed. No allergic reactions to the pigment or koebnerization of the vitiligo have been noted.