Phototherapy for Psoriasis

Treatment Overview

Phototherapy is the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to slow the rapid growth of new skin cells and to decrease inflammation. This is helpful in treating psoriasis, Opens dialog, which causes inflammation and the rapid growth of skin cells.

There are different types of UV light therapy.

  • Ultraviolet B (UVB):
    • UVB can be narrowband UVB or broadband UVB.
    • UVB can be used with a laser treatment for psoriasis (excimer laser). This can work well for treating smaller areas.
  • Ultraviolet A (UVA):
    • UVA can be used with psoralen. Psoralen is a medicine that makes your skin more sensitive to light. This treatment is called PUVA.

Sometimes UV therapy is used with other psoriasis medicines.

During phototherapy, you may stand in a booth that contains light tubes that give off UV light. Or you may have treatment with a smaller device if you have psoriasis in a limited area. Treatment is usually several times a week at first. Once your psoriasis is doing better, you may have it less often. Sometimes people may be able to do the treatment at home.

To keep yourself safe, carefully follow all of your doctor's instructions, such as protecting your eyes by wearing UV-blocking goggles during treatments.

Information about Phototherapy for Psoriasis

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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