5 Benefits of Using Phototherapy

Those with vitiligo, eczema, and other skin diseases often choose phototherapy. The treatment, which exposes the skin briefly to a particular wavelength of UV light, has also been used successfully in the treatment of other conditions. Read on for the types of phototherapy and the benefits of this treatment.

Types of Phototherapy

There are three main types of light used in phototherapy. These are PUVA, narrowband UVB, and broadband UVB. PUVA is short for psoralen ultraviolet. PUVA combines UVA light and psoralen, a chemical that is found in plants to treat psoriasis and cutaneous T cell lymphoma.

Narrowband phototherapy uses UV light of a specific wavelength identified as being most beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis and several other skin conditions. Broadband UVB was used to treat psoriasis and is beneficial for treating eczema, although only under certain circumstances.

1. Non-Invasive

Other methods of treating skin conditions like acne can be painful, but phototherapy allows light to penetrate the cell walls of skin to destroy this bacteria without any piercing or other invasive procedures.

2. Drug-Free

There are several options for treating skin conditions, depression, and sleep disorders with pharmaceutical drugs. Phototherapy offers a more natural option for those who prefer drug-free treatment.

3. At-Home Option

Treatment at a doctor’s office may be cost-prohibitive or there may be other reasons why at-home treatment is preferred. Regardless of the reason, phototherapy units provide an option for those who want to self-treat at home.

4. Safe

Phototherapy is safe because the amount of light applied to the skin can be controlled and the effects of the treatment monitored. Professionals can adjust the frequency, intensity, and amount of light easily.

5. Effective

Overall, treatment with Bistos phototherapy lamps has been used effectively for a high percentage of patients who elect to undergo it.

Consistency Is Key

Whether having phototherapy in a doctor’s office or at home, consistency is the key to successful treatment. Most types of phototherapy require two or three weekly treatments for anywhere from two to four months or more. The length of time needed for treatment will depend on the:

• Condition being treated
• Severity of the condition
• Skin type
• Type of phototherapy treatment

It may take several treatments before you see improvement in your skin. Some see results after six weeks; others may require two months or more for results to be evident.

Common Side Effects

The process of phototherapy can produce many of the same effects you experience when out in the sun for too long. Burns, changes in skin color, blisters, and redness are all common side effects of this treatment.

Medical facilities and individual patients alike can reap the many benefits of phototherapy, but only top-quality phototherapy equipment can offer the best chances of successful treatment. At Medical Device Depot, we offer long-term warranties and a price-beating pledge on all of the reliable products we sell. You can learn more by visiting us online or calling 1-877-646-3300.