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Phototherapy is a type of medical treatment which is used to treat wide range of inflammatory skin conditions by directing increasing increments of artificial light to the skin in an accurate controlled manner. In the phototherapy process-- also called as ‘light therapy’-- ultraviolet light (blue light) is used. And, other forms of light may be used as well which depends upon the condition that is being treated. Through phototherapy, the patient whole body or a confined area can be treated. Phototherapy is quite proven and useful technique in treating various skin conditions.
How does Phototherapy work?
Phototherapy is quite a popular technique which is equipped with Light Heat Energy (LHE) technology. Phototherapy is mostly performed at doctor’s office and it most likely differs for different skin condition. It is currently being used to treat several diseases including: acne and psoriasis. The basic principle behind this treatment is to expose the skin to Ultraviolet light (UVB), more specifically green and red light. Green light penetrates deep below the surface of the skin to destroy the bacteria responsible for acne formations while the red light act as more of an anti-inflammatory agent. The “H” in LHE is the heat, when combined with the entire LHE process, it is extremely effective in opening and exfoliating skin pores.
What is Phototherapy used for?
Phototherapy is used to treat different skin conditions. Moreover, it was first used in the treatment of psoriasis, a number of other skin conditions including:
Eczema, vitiligo where pigment cells are damaged resulting in white patches)
Skin-based lymphoma
Some cases of generalized itchy skin-- especially due to kidney or liver disease-- can be treated this way if they haven’t responded to other treatments. Phototherapy is not suitable for all forms of psoriasis and eczema and may even aggravate some forms of these diseases.
What Types of Phototherapy are there?
There are two types of phototherapy – UVA and UVB.
UVA phototherapy is usually given in conjunction with a light sensitising tablet called psoralen (PUVA therapy). Sometimes a light sensitising cream or lotion containing psoralen can be used in localised skin areas, e.g. feet (topical PUVA). UVA is part of the UV spectrum associated with pigmentation.
UVB phototherapy utilises the sunburning part of the UV spectrum. “Narrowband” UVB uses light of one wavelength only.
What are the benefits of phototherapy?
Helps in increasing the formation of new capillaries that speed up the healing process by carrying more oxygen and more nutrients needed for healing.
It increases collagen production as a result less scar tissue is formed at the damaged site.
Helps damaged cells to be replaced more promptly.
Stimulate tissue granulation and connective tissue projections, which are part of the healing process of wounds, ulcers or inflamed tissue.
What can be the possible side effects?
Generally, phototherapy is regarded as a well-tolerated and safe procedure. Some mild side effects can be experienced, especially initially; but possibility of severe side effects is rare. Some mild side effects that can be experienced during the treatment include headache, insomnia, eyestrain, nausea and fatigue. Irritability can also occur and if this persists or worsens, the duration of treatment may have to be decreased. There have been reports of manic episodes. With properly adjusted and maintained equipment there is no evidence that phototherapy can damage the retina.
What should NOT use Phototherapy?
Who those have very fair or sensitive skin that burn with very minimal sun exposure,
Small children,
Who those have medical problems which increase susceptibility to sunburn (e.g. lupus),
Who have previously had certain types of skin cancer, and
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