Wholebody Phototherapy

What is phototherapy?

Natural sunlight has been known to be beneficial in certain skin disorders for thousands of years. Phototherapy is a specialised treatment, delivered by the Phototherapy Unit at your hospital. It is carefully regulated to ensure patient safety and has proven to be a very effective treatment for many different skin diseases. The ultraviolet part of the radiation produced by the sun (UVR) is used in phototherapy.

 How is Phototherapy different from Sunlight?

Treatment lamps produce these special rays, which has anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Although these rays are also present in natural sunlight, phototherapy is usually more effective than sunlight because harmful and ineffective sunlight rays are filtered out. In this way we also seek to minimise the risk of burning episodes and tanning.

How is Whole Body Phototherapy better than other Phototherapy?

 When the whole body is exposed to ultraviolet light, it produces an effect similar to taking oral medicines without the complications and side effects of taking an oral medicine

What are types of phototherapy?

The types of phototherapy treatments include:

1.    Narrow Band UVB (NBUVB)

2.    UVA (PUVA)

3.    UVA1.

The choice of phototherapy treatment depends upon your skin condition, and on discussions that you have with your doctor about the treatment that would work best for you.

What skin conditions are treated with phototherapy?

Phototherapy is a very effective treatment option for variety of skin conditions. Common among them are:

·      Vitiligo

·      Psoriasis

·      Eczema and Allergies

·      Generalised itching

 How long do treatments last?

This depends on your skin condition and varies from person to person. Treatments are generally given 2-3 times a week for 12-16 weeks. Individual treatments last up to 10 minutes with the total visit taking up to half an hour. The total length of a treatment course will depend on your response and the specific skin condition being treated.

 Are there any side effects of Phototherapy?

Phototherapy is a very safe treatment with no major side effects. Minor problems like Sunburn, Milaria, Tanning and dry skin are sometimes seen during course of treatment. These can be avoided by use of moisturisers, sun protection and taking plenty of water. Risk of getting a skin cancer by phototherapy is almost negligible, same as getting it from sunlight exposure.