Phototherapy

Phototherapy at Skin Care Doctors uses a medical device that emits specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light to treat skin diseases such as vitiligo, psoriasis, eczema, and other conditions.

UV Light for Healthy Skin

There are two main types of phototherapy: UVB and UVA. UVB phototherapy involves exposing the skin to a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve the symptoms of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. On the other hand, UVA phototherapy involves exposing the skin to a longer wavelength of ultraviolet light, which can help treat conditions such as vitiligo and atopic dermatitis.

What Is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, is a medical treatment that involves exposure to specific wavelengths of light to treat various medical conditions. Phototherapy is often used as a treatment for skin disorders because it helps to slow down the growth of skin cells, which can be useful in treating conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. During phototherapy treatment, you are exposed to a special type of light that mimics natural sunlight, including ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB), and narrowband UVB. The specific type of light used depends on the condition treated and will help to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve the appearance of the skin.

Phototherapy Treatment: What to Expect

There are phototherapy devices designed to serve a wide variety of cases. For instance, targeted devices are intended for small areas of the body. Because incidental treatment of normal skin is avoided, higher levels of light can be used, which may result in quicker disease resolution. However, larger area treatment devices such as hand/foot units and half-body or full-body devices may be used with widespread disease. Your physician will suggest a device that is appropriate for your condition.

A typical treatment regimen is three exposures per week. Initially, treatment times may be just seconds long, but they will gradually increase in length. With psoriasis, clearance will require 25 to 30 treatments if the therapy is consistently used. The regimentation of vitiligo is generally a slower process. Your physician may require that sensitive areas of your body, or those unaccustomed to sun exposure, be shielded or treated with sunscreen before treatment.

Am I a Candidate?

Phototherapy is appropriate for those with moderate-to-severe disease. Typically three to ten percent of body involvement is considered moderate, while ten percent or more is deemed severe. For an average-sized person, the size of your hand (including fingers and thumb) is equivalent to about one percent of your total skin area. If you have a skin disease, our medical providers recommend scheduling an in-office skin assessment to see if phototherapy can help you achieve your desired results.

FAQ

Is phototherapy a cure?

Is it safe?

Is phototherapy safe for everyone?

Is phototherapy a cure?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a “cure” for these chronic skin conditions, but about 85% of psoriasis patients achieve significant clearing with narrow-band UVB. Upon cessation of treatment, symptoms may gradually reappear after several months of remission, so your physician may suggest a maintenance series of treatments to keep your skin clear.

Is it safe?

Yes, phototherapy is considered to be very safe. Sunburn-like symptoms are the most common problem. Over time, phototherapy may contribute to premature skin aging and a slightly increased risk of certain kinds of skin cancer.

Is phototherapy safe for everyone?

Phototherapy has a favorable safety profile, especially compared to many alternative therapies. It may be used by pregnant women, children, and immunocompromised people. As with any treatment, if you are considering phototherapy, make sure that your physician is fully aware of any health conditions you have and any medications you are using.

Why Choose Skin Care Doctors?

At Skin Care Doctors, our board-certified medical providers treat a range of skin conditions. With extensive training and expertise in the field of dermatology, our providers can assess your skin and provide a treatment plan to help you achieve a smooth, even tone and texture. Our office is filled with experts in skin health, working to ensure that your skin remains healthy and comfortable. Whether you have a medical or cosmetic concern related to your skin, contact our office today to see if phototherapy treatment can help you achieve your desired aesthetic.

Phototherapy

UV Light for Healthy Skin

What Is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy Treatment: What to Expect

Am I a Candidate?

FAQ

Is phototherapy a cure?

Is it safe?

Is phototherapy safe for everyone?

Why Choose Skin Care Doctors?

Better skin health starts here. Schedule your appointment today.