Your Guide to UVB Light Therapy
UVB phototherapy is an effective treatment for numerous skin conditions and immune system problems. But what exactly is UVB light therapy and how does it help? If you’re interested in how light may be used as a therapeutic tool, this guide is for you.
In this blog we will go over everything you need to know – from what is UVB light and how does it work, to the pros and cons of treatment and what you can expect when you arrive. By the finish, you’ll be much more informed and know whether UVB light therapy could be the right decision for you and your health.
Understanding UVB Light & How it Works
UVB, or ultraviolet B, is one of three types of ultraviolet rays produced by the sun. It has a lower wavelength than UVA rays, but is more fast-acting in its penetration of the outer levels of skin. Though it can result in sunburn with unprotected exposure to UVB light emitted by the sun, controlled, targeted doses in a clinical or portable application offer medicinal value.
UVB light has the ability to affect how your skin cells grow and divide. This makes it particularly useful for some skin conditions that are due to the immune system working incorrectly or too much cell growth.
What Can Be Treated With UVB Light Therapy
UVB phototherapy is used to treat certain skin disorders such as psoriasis and vitiligo. Following are the particularly frequent sicknesses that can usually be treated with this therapy:
Psoriasis: A long-term condition in which skin cells build up, forming scales and itchy, dry patches. With UVB, the overproduction of cells is slowed and plaques are reduced.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This treatment is designed to control inflammation and reduce itching by controlling an overactive immune system reaction in the skin.
Vitiligo: UVB exposure stimulates the production of melanocytes in the skin, resulting in repigmentation of the areas affected by vitiligo.
Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL): CTCL, which is a type of rare skin cancer, is another condition that may also improve with UVB therapy as a component of overall treatment.
Seborrheic Dermatitis and Lichen Planus are other conditions that may also respond positively to UVB treatment.
Keep in mind, however, that UVB therapy can only effectively treat the symptoms, not cure these chronic conditions.
What Occurs In UVB Light Treatment
UVB phototherapy is typically given in a medical practice with a phototherapy unit using the whole-body (systemic) or hand and foot units. Here’s how the process works:
Evaluation: A dermatologist/prescriber will assess your condition to see if UVB treatment is appropriate for you.
Light Box: The most prevalent method of getting UVB treatment is in a light box.
Handheld Devices (if needed) Some of our patients with localised psoriasis purchase a handheld UVB unit for use at home.
Frequency of Treatment: Treatments are usually done nearly 2–5 times per week, depending on the severity of the condition.
Your doctor would tailor the dose and duration of light exposure to get the most benefit but with the least risk of burning or irritation.
Pros and Cons of UVB Light Therapy
Benefits
Clinically Proven: There have been numerous studies that have concluded a significant improvement in symptoms for individuals with psoriasis, vitiligo and eczema.
Non-Surgical: UVB light therapy treatment is completely non-surgical and involves no downtime for your convenience.
Selectiva Treatment: With only affected areas exposed to the UVB light, and healthy skin unaffected.
Complements Other Treatments: In many cases, light treatments can be used in conjunction with creams, medicines, diet and supplements, to amplify effectiveness.
Risks
There’s no downside-free treatment. Here are a few potential downsides:
Sunburn and Skin Irritation: Overexposure of UVB light may cause temporary burns or rash.
Potential Long-Term Skin Damage: Repeated and extended use could result in early skin aging or skin cancer.
Eye sensitivity: UVB rays can be harmful to your eyes and during the session you are required to wear safety goggles.
By paying close attention to professional advice, these dangers can be lessened and you can enjoy all that therapy has to offer.
Getting Ready for Your UVB Phototherapy Treatment
Preparation is key to maximizing the benefits of your treatments while protecting yourself. Here are some steps for you to consider before your initial class:
Consultation: Tell your doctor what medications you are on because some drugs can cause your skin to be more sensitive to UV radiation.
Steer clear of skin irritants: Avoid scrubbing, shaving, or using exfoliates a day or two before treatment to prevent irritation.
Attire: We recommend loose and comfortable attire that can be removed quickly for full body exposure if desired.
Eye Protection: Goggles will be provided, but if your eyes are sensitive, you should consult with your physician regarding additional means of protection.
When to Call the Doctor
You can take the following steps without taking medication: Keep the windows closed in your bedroom at night so pollen can’t come in.Discontinue use of ceiling fans (because they keep the air moving, which can spread pollen)Use an air conditioner in your home and at work.Take a shower, wash your hair and change your clothes after you’ve been working or playing outside.
Most people take a course of UVB treatments that lasts from a few months to several years, depending on the severity of the condition. During the appointment:
You’ll step into a standing or sitting light box, with the affected areas exposed and your provider observing the treatment process.
You’ll be wearing eye protection during the whole session.
Redness or warmth may be present following your treatment. With regular monitoring and small dose adjustments, these effects typically decrease and your skin will benefit from these effects.
Aftercare and Maintenance
In the long-term, to achieve the benefits, aftercare is paramount. Here is how to prevent skin damage after UVB treatment:
Moisturize Daily: Hydrate treated areas to minimize dryness or flaking.
Sun Protection: Do not stay too long in the sun, even while using a sunscreen product with a high SPF.Suitable for protection during therapy sessions.
Keep Treating: Adhere to your dermatologist’s plan so you’ll see sustained improvement.
Keep an Eye on Your Skin: If you see anything odd (like spots that won’t heal or new bumps) get to your DO now.
What Lies Ahead for UVB Treatments?
As a greater level of detail regarding the effects of light on the skin and the immune system are ushered in as a result of technological breakthroughs in medicine, UVB therapy advances. Recent developments include:
Narrowband UVB:The less harmful type that eliminates all but a small portion of the UVB light spectrum, which is used in more targeted, controlled dosages.
Home-use Phototherapy Devices: With positive trend, there is growing number of such FDA-approved devices that enable easier and more frequent treatment sessions.
Combination Therapies: They are not sure yet how UVB and the new biologics can be combined to achieve the best results.
Given this progress, the flexibility and availability of UVB light therapy will likely continue to increase, resulting in it being a go-to option for many conditions going forward.
Determining if UVB Light Therapy is Right for You
UVB light treatment provides a promising approach towards treating long-term skin conditions without the need for strong medications or invasive processes. But no cure is one-size-fits all. Things such as your health history, skin type and how bad your condition is make a difference in whether this method of treatment is right for you.
If you’re interested in pursuing UVB light therapy, talk to your skin specialist or ask your primary care provider. They’re going to walk you through it, discuss pros and cons, customize a treatment plan for you, or just make an appropriate referral.
With this action, you may be on your way to healthier, happier skin with a therapy that has been scientifically proven to harness the power of light.
