Vitiligo treatment typically involves a year-long course of therapy, and interruptions of even a month may necessitate restarting the treatment. Before committing to a long-term plan, it’s essential to assess the financial resources required. Below are rough cost estimates for common vitiligo treatments in the USA:

Doctor Visits

Doctor visits can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per appointment for those without insurance, while insured patients typically pay a copay of $5–$30 or coinsurance ranging from 10% to 50%.

Specialized Drugs (JAK Inhibitors)

Specialized drugs like JAK inhibitors, while effective, can be expensive, with a 60-g tube costing up to $2,000 for uninsured patients. However, patient assistance programs may reduce this cost significantly, often to under $100.

"Off-Label" Topical Treatments

Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids like clobetasol propionate, range from $20–$300 depending on whether they are generic or brand-name. Immunomodulators like tacrolimus can exceed $200.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy remains a cornerstone of vitiligo management.

• Conventional phototherapy: $85–$120 per session, with most patients requiring 180–220 sessions.
• Laser treatments: $150 or more per session, often requiring 20–30 sessions (depending on the area treated).
• Medicare reimbursement: $76 per non-targeted UVB treatment and $150–$240 per targeted UVB treatment. Laser treatments are not covered.
• Home phototherapy devices: Range from $250–$4,000 and may be covered by insurance.

Melanocyte-Keratinocyte Transplantation (MKTP)

Typically costs $2,500–$4,000, although prices may decrease in the near future.

Camouflage Products

For non-medical options, camouflage products such as self-tanners and concealing cosmetics are available at a cost of $25–$35 per container.

Cost-saving opportunities do exist. Large retailers like Walmart and Costco often provide discounts on both prescription and over-the-counter treatments. Additionally, many hospitals offer cash-paying patients discounts of 30% or more. Patient assistance programs can also help reduce the financial burden of specialized therapies.

Suggested reading

• The Real Price Tag of Treating Vitiligo