Phototherapy

Phototherapy is best suited for individuals with chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, lichen planus, or persistent itching that has not responded well to topical medications alone. It is ideal for people seeking a non-invasive and medically supervised treatment that can improve symptoms and quality of life. Candidates should be in good general health and able to commit to multiple sessions, since phototherapy is typically performed over a series of treatments for best results. A consultation with a dermatologist or medical provider will help determine if phototherapy is the right approach for your specific skin concern.

Phototherapy is clinically validated for the treatment of several chronic dermatologic conditions. It can improve psoriasis by reducing plaque thickness, scaling, and itching through the slowing of rapid skin cell turnover. It is also effective for atopic dermatitis (eczema), helping to decrease inflammation and itching, particularly when topical corticosteroids are no longer sufficient. In cases of vitiligo, phototherapy stimulates melanocyte activity to help restore pigment in affected areas. It can also reduce inflammation and itching associated with lichen planus, as well as calm persistent itch, known as chronic pruritus, even when the underlying cause is unclear. Because each condition responds differently, treatment plans are always customized and supervised by a medical professional.

Yes. Phototherapy is a medically recognized, evidence-based treatment supported by decades of clinical research. It is considered a first-line or second-line treatment for conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and vitiligo by major dermatological associations including the AAD and the Canadian Dermatology Association.

In rare cases, phototherapy may cause temporary irritation or dryness, especially in very sensitive skin. However, when performed under medical supervision and properly tailored to the individual, it is highly effective at reducing eczema flare-ups and improving skin comfort over time.

No. Any darkening of the skin due to phototherapy is usually temporary. Once treatment ends, skin tone gradually returns to baseline. Persistent pigmentation changes are uncommon and typically only occur with excessive UV exposure or improper protocols.

Results vary depending on the condition treated. Most patients begin noticing improvements after 4 to 6 sessions, with full therapeutic effects often achieved after 20 to 30 sessions. Your physician will track progress and make adjustments as needed.

Yes. Phototherapy, especially narrowband UVB, is one of the most effective and safest treatments for moderate to severe psoriasis. It slows down the rapid skin cell turnover characteristic of the condition and significantly reduces plaque thickness, scaling, and itching.

When administered in a controlled clinical environment, phototherapy is very safe. Treatments are carefully timed and dosed based on your skin type and condition. Side effects are typically mild and may include slight redness or dryness.

No. While both involve UV light, tanning beds emit broad-spectrum UVA and UVB in uncontrolled doses, which increases skin cancer risk and premature aging. Phototherapy uses medical-grade, specific wavelengths of UV light in precisely measured doses to treat skin disease safely.

No. Phototherapy uses ultraviolet (UV) light to treat inflammatory skin conditions. Red light therapy uses visible red or near-infrared light and is primarily used for cosmetic purposes like skin rejuvenation or wound healing. The mechanisms and applications are completely different.

Most side effects are mild and temporary. These can include redness, dryness, mild burning or itching, and temporary tanning. Rarely, overexposure can cause blistering. Long-term treatment may increase the risk of photoaging, so monitoring by a medical professional is essential.