You may have heard of phototherapy as a go-to treatment for skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, where it has a long track record of success. But its benefits go far beyond the skin. A growing body of research shows that light therapy can help manage systemic autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis by addressing the body’s internal immune response. This makes it an exciting option for those dealing with widespread inflammation and fatigue. We’ll explore how this treatment works on a deeper level, what conditions it can help, and what the phototherapy procedure involves, giving you a clear picture of its expanding role in autoimmune care.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on the Right Kind of Light: Phototherapy is a medical treatment that uses a precise wavelength, typically narrowband UVB, to calm your immune system. This targeted approach requires a doctor’s prescription and is fundamentally different from sun exposure or tanning beds.
- Consistency is Key to Your Success: This is a gradual process, not an overnight fix. The best results come from working with your doctor to create a personalized plan and sticking to your schedule of short, frequent treatments.
- Manage More Than Just Skin Symptoms: While known for treating skin conditions, phototherapy’s ability to reduce systemic inflammation makes it a promising option for other autoimmune diseases. You can manage common, temporary side effects like redness by moisturizing and protecting your skin from the sun on treatment days.
What Is Phototherapy and How Does It Work?
If you’re exploring treatments for an autoimmune condition, you’ve likely come across phototherapy. The idea of using light as medicine might sound futuristic, but it’s a well-established medical treatment that has been used safely for decades. Phototherapy, or light therapy, involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light in a controlled, medical setting. It’s important to know this isn’t the same as using a tanning bed or sunbathing; phototherapy uses a prescribed dose of light to achieve a specific therapeutic outcome.
For years, dermatologists have relied on phototherapy to manage chronic skin conditions. Now, a growing body of research shows its potential to help with systemic autoimmune diseases by addressing the underlying inflammation that causes so many symptoms. The core principle is that targeted light exposure can influence how your cells behave, particularly the immune cells that have become overactive. It’s a way to work with your body’s own systems to restore balance and find relief. This approach offers an innovative treatment option for those who feel underserved by the current standard of care. Let’s look at how this process works and why the type of light used makes all the difference.
The Science: How Light Becomes a Treatment
So, how exactly does light create a therapeutic effect? When your skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of UV light during a phototherapy session, the light energy is absorbed by your cells. This absorption sets off a chain reaction that helps regulate your immune system. The main goal is to slow down the rapid growth of certain cells and reduce the swelling and irritation caused by inflammation. For skin conditions, this means calming the overproduction of skin cells that lead to plaques and discomfort.
On a deeper level, this light exposure helps calm your immune system. It reduces the activity of T-cells and other inflammatory cells that drive the autoimmune response. Think of it as a gentle reset for the parts of your immune system that are working in overdrive. This makes phototherapy an effective, non-drug option that your doctor can prescribe to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Why Wavelength Matters: Narrowband UVB vs. Other Light
Not all light is created equal, and this is especially true in phototherapy. You’ll often hear the term “narrowband UVB” (NB-UVB), which refers to a very specific and precise sliver of the ultraviolet B light spectrum. This precision is what makes it so effective. Unlike the broad-spectrum UV light from the sun, which contains a wide range of wavelengths, NB-UVB isolates the most beneficial rays while filtering out those more likely to cause skin damage. This targeted approach allows for a potent therapeutic effect with a much lower risk of side effects.
This specific wavelength is particularly good at slowing down the overproduction of inflammatory cells. While it’s a proven treatment for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, its benefits go more than skin deep. Research shows that NB-UVB has a significant photoimmune impact, making it a promising immunomodulatory strategy for systemic conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS). By using this exact wavelength, we can influence the immune response throughout the body, offering a new path for managing chronic inflammation.
What Conditions Can Phototherapy Treat?
Phototherapy has long been a trusted treatment for skin-related autoimmune conditions, but its applications are expanding. Research now shows that light therapy can address deeper, systemic inflammation, offering hope for a wider range of autoimmune diseases. If you’re dealing with an autoimmune condition, it’s worth exploring how this treatment might fit into your care plan. From calming irritated skin to regulating the body’s internal immune response, phototherapy is proving to be a versatile and powerful tool. Let’s look at the specific conditions where it’s making a difference.
Autoimmune Skin Conditions
If you live with an autoimmune skin condition, you’re likely familiar with the frustrating cycle of flare-ups. Phototherapy, especially narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) light therapy, is a go-to treatment for many dermatologists because it works. It helps by slowing down the rapid production of inflammatory cells in your skin, which is the root cause of symptoms in conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema. By calming this overactive response, phototherapy can reduce redness, itching, and scaling, giving your skin a chance to heal. It’s a well-established option for managing a variety of autoimmune skin conditions and restoring skin health.
Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
The benefits of phototherapy aren’t just skin deep. Exciting new research shows that NB-UVB light therapy can also help manage systemic autoimmune diseases that affect your entire body. For those of us dealing with both skin issues and internal inflammation, this treatment can offer a powerful two-for-one benefit. Studies reveal that NB-UVB has immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can help regulate and stabilize your immune response. This is particularly promising for conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), where calming the immune system is a primary goal of treatment.
The Future of Phototherapy: New Research and Uses
The potential of phototherapy continues to grow as researchers uncover more about its broad anti-inflammatory effects. We’re moving beyond just treating the skin and looking at how light can influence the immune system on a deeper level. For example, a recent study published in the journal Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders showed that NB-UVB phototherapy can significantly impact immune system activity in patients with MS. This kind of research is paving the way for new treatment strategies, highlighting the evolving role of light-based therapies in managing complex autoimmune diseases and offering new possibilities for patients.
Your Guide to Phototherapy Types
Phototherapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. Different approaches use specific wavelengths of light to achieve different results, and the right one for you depends on your condition, skin type, and treatment goals. Understanding the main options is the first step in having an informed conversation with your doctor about what might work best. Let’s walk through the most common types of phototherapy you’ll likely discuss. Each has its own unique way of working with your body to calm inflammation and restore balance.
Narrowband UVB Phototherapy
Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) is one of the most common and effective forms of phototherapy available today. It uses a very specific, narrow slice of the ultraviolet B light spectrum. This precision is its greatest strength. By isolating the most therapeutic wavelength of light, it effectively slows down the overproduction of inflammatory cells that contribute to autoimmune symptoms. This targeted approach offers powerful results while minimizing exposure to other, less beneficial UV rays. It’s a go-to treatment for conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema, and it’s at the heart of many innovative treatment options for autoimmune disease.
PUVA Therapy
PUVA stands for Psoralen plus Ultraviolet A light. This is a combination therapy that uses UVA light along with a light-sensitizing medication called psoralen. You either take the psoralen as a pill or apply it as a cream before your light session. The medication makes your skin much more receptive to the UVA light, which enhances the treatment’s effects. PUVA is a powerful option that has been used for decades to treat severe psoriasis, vitiligo, and other conditions. Because it involves medication, it requires careful monitoring by your healthcare provider to manage your skin’s sensitivity and ensure the best outcome.
Excimer Laser Therapy
Think of excimer laser therapy as the “spot treatment” of the phototherapy world. Instead of exposing a large area of skin to light, this method uses a high-intensity, focused beam of UVB light to target very specific, small patches. This makes it an excellent choice for localized conditions, like psoriasis on the elbows or knees, where the affected areas are well-defined. The laser delivers a concentrated dose of light directly where it’s needed, which can lead to faster results for smaller spots while completely sparing the surrounding healthy skin from any UV exposure.
What to Expect During Your Phototherapy Session
Starting a new treatment can feel a little intimidating, but knowing what’s coming can make all the difference. Phototherapy is a straightforward process, and each session is typically very quick. Whether you’re receiving treatment in a clinic or using an at-home device, the steps are designed for your safety and comfort. Let’s walk through what a typical phototherapy journey looks like, from your first consultation to post-session care, so you can feel prepared and confident. The goal is to make this a simple and effective part of your routine. Your care team will guide you, but having a clear picture of the process helps you play an active role in your own treatment.
Think of this as your roadmap to understanding exactly what happens before, during, and after you step in front of the light. We’ll cover the essential preparations with your doctor, what the treatment itself feels like, and the simple aftercare steps you’ll need to follow. By demystifying the procedure, we hope to ease any worries you might have. Understanding each step helps you partner with your healthcare provider to get the most out of your sessions. This isn’t a passive treatment; your preparation and follow-up care are key components of your success. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the entire procedure, setting you up for a positive experience with innovative treatment options like phototherapy.
Before Your First Session: Prep and Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with your doctor. This initial meeting is crucial for tailoring the treatment to your specific needs and ensuring it’s the right fit for you. Your doctor will examine your skin and discuss your medical history in detail. Be prepared to talk about how your skin typically reacts to sunlight and any personal or family history of skin cancer. It’s incredibly important to give your doctor a complete picture of your health. Make sure to mention if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You’ll also need to provide a full list of any medicines you take, as some substances can make your skin more sensitive to UV light. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and even herbal supplements.
Inside the Treatment Room
When it’s time for your session, the process is quick and simple. You’ll be given protective eyewear, which you must wear for the entire duration of the treatment to keep your eyes safe. Depending on the area being treated, you may stand in a light cabinet that looks similar to a standing tanning booth, or your clinician might use a smaller, handheld light wand for more targeted areas. The first few sessions are usually very short—sometimes just a matter of seconds. This allows your doctor to see how your skin responds. Over time, the duration of your exposure will gradually increase, but even longer sessions rarely last more than a few minutes. To see results, you’ll likely need a consistent schedule of several phototherapy treatments per week.
After Your Session: Care and Follow-Up
After your treatment, it’s normal for your skin to feel a bit like it has a mild sunburn. You might notice some redness, itching, or a slight burning sensation, but these effects are usually temporary. Phototherapy can also be drying, so keeping your skin hydrated is key. Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer like Aquaphor or Cetaphil at least once a day to soothe your skin and prevent excessive dryness. Protecting your skin from additional UV exposure is also critical. It’s very important to avoid natural sunlight as much as possible on treatment days. When you do go outside, cover up with clothing and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to all exposed skin. This helps prevent overexposure and allows the therapeutic light to do its job effectively.
Getting Started: How to Prepare for Treatment
Beginning any new treatment can feel like a big step, but preparing for phototherapy is straightforward. Think of this phase as building a strong foundation for your success. It’s all about working with your doctor to create a personalized plan that fits your specific needs and ensures you get the most out of every session. Proper preparation helps make the treatment more effective and keeps you safe along the way.
Before you even step into a treatment booth, you’ll have a clear roadmap. This process starts with a detailed conversation with your healthcare provider to confirm phototherapy is the right choice for you. From there, they’ll assess your condition to tailor the treatment settings. Finally, you’ll get a simple set of instructions to follow before each appointment. Let’s walk through what you can expect at each stage.
The First Step: Consultation and Prescription
Your journey with phototherapy begins with a conversation with your healthcare provider. This initial consultation is essential because phototherapy requires a prescription. Your doctor will want to understand your complete medical history, including any past reactions to sunlight, a personal or family history of skin cancer, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This discussion is crucial for confirming that you’re a good candidate for this treatment and helps your doctor design a safe and effective plan. It’s the perfect time to ask questions and learn how phototherapy fits into your broader plan for managing your autoimmune condition with innovative treatment options.
Your Initial Skin Assessment
As part of your consultation, your doctor will perform a thorough skin assessment. This isn’t just a quick look; it’s a detailed evaluation to identify the specific areas that need treatment and to understand your unique skin type. This step is all about personalization. By examining your skin, your provider can determine the right starting dose and create a treatment schedule tailored just for you. This ensures the therapy is targeted precisely where it’s needed most, which is key to achieving the best possible results. Think of it as creating a custom-fit plan instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.
Following Pre-Treatment Instructions
To help your skin respond best to the light, your care team will give you a few simple guidelines to follow before each session. You’ll need to make sure the skin being treated is clean and exposed, while protecting other areas with clothing, a broad-spectrum sunscreen, or the special goggles provided to you. It’s also important not to apply any creams, lotions, or moisturizers to the treatment area for at least 24 hours before your phototherapy procedure. These products can sometimes block the UV light or cause an unexpected skin reaction, so arriving with clean, dry skin is best.
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects
Whenever you start a new treatment, it’s smart to have a clear picture of the potential risks and side effects. Let’s walk through what you should know about phototherapy. The good news is that when it’s done correctly under a doctor’s care, phototherapy has a well-established safety record. Many of the most significant concerns you might read about are linked to older forms of light therapy, not the more targeted narrowband UVB light used in modern treatments.
The goal is always to ensure the benefits—like calming your immune system and reducing inflammation—far outweigh any potential downsides. Your care provider will carefully calculate your dose and treatment schedule to maximize effectiveness while minimizing risks. Think of it as a partnership; by understanding the potential side effects, you can work with your doctor to manage them effectively and keep your treatment on track. Open communication is key, so never hesitate to bring up any concerns or new symptoms you experience along the way.
Common Short-Term Side Effects
After a phototherapy session, your skin might react similarly to how it would after spending a little time in the sun. It’s normal to experience some temporary redness, itching, or a mild burning feeling in the treated area. For most people, this redness is mild and usually fades within 24 hours.
Your skin might also feel a bit dry or tight. These reactions are generally expected and are signs that the light is having a therapeutic effect on your skin and immune cells. Your doctor will start you on a very low dose of light and gradually increase it to find the perfect amount for your skin, which helps keep these effects to a minimum.
A Look at Long-Term Safety
It’s completely valid to ask about the long-term safety of any ongoing treatment. With phototherapy, the main long-term risks are related to cumulative UV exposure over many years. This can include premature skin aging, like wrinkles or freckles. It’s also important to note that some older forms of treatment, specifically PUVA therapy which combines psoralen medication with UVA light, have been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer.
However, narrowband UVB light, the modern standard for many autoimmune conditions, has a much lower risk profile. Your doctor will monitor your skin closely throughout your treatment journey. Regular skin checks are a standard part of the process, ensuring that you can safely receive the benefits of phototherapy for years to come.
How to Manage Potential Side Effects
You have a lot of control when it comes to managing the common side effects of phototherapy. To combat dryness and itching, get into the habit of applying a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer at least once a day. Products like Aquaphor or Cetaphil are great options. Applying it right after a shower can help lock in moisture.
Because your skin is receiving a therapeutic dose of UV light during treatment, it’s very important to protect it from additional sun exposure. On treatment days and the day after, be diligent about wearing protective clothing and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to all exposed skin when you go outdoors. This simple step prevents overexposure and helps keep your skin comfortable.
How Effective Is Phototherapy?
Phototherapy is a trusted and well-established medical treatment, not just a wellness trend. For decades, dermatologists have used it to manage autoimmune skin conditions. Specifically, narrowband UVB light therapy works by slowing down the overproduction of inflammatory cells in the skin, which helps calm conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema. It’s a way of using a specific wavelength of light to tell your immune system to take a step back, reducing the inflammation that drives these conditions. This approach gets to the root of the issue rather than just masking symptoms, offering a different path for those who feel underserved by creams or medications alone.
Now, researchers are exploring how this same mechanism can help with systemic autoimmune diseases. Early studies show that narrowband UVB can be a promising immunomodulatory strategy for conditions like multiple sclerosis by addressing general inflammation throughout the body. Like any effective medical treatment, phototherapy can have side effects. Some people experience temporary redness, itching, or a mild burning sensation, but these adverse events are well-documented and typically managed by adjusting your treatment time. Your provider will work closely with you to find the right balance that gives you results with minimal discomfort.
Your Treatment Schedule: Timelines and Frequency
Consistency is the key to getting the most out of phototherapy. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific condition and skin type, but most schedules involve frequent, short sessions. Don’t worry—you won’t be spending hours under the light. The first session is usually very brief, sometimes just a few seconds, to see how your skin reacts.
From there, sessions rarely last more than a few minutes. For narrowband UVB, you can typically expect to need several treatments each week, usually two to three times. Your care provider will create a schedule that gradually increases your exposure time to maximize effectiveness while minimizing side effects. Sticking to this schedule is one of the most important things you can do to achieve your treatment goals.
Measuring Success: What Results Can You Expect?
It’s natural to wonder how soon you’ll see changes. While results vary for everyone, many people experience significant improvement. For skin conditions, success is often measured by how much the skin clears. For example, one study on prurigo nodularis found that after one cycle of phototherapy, over half of the patients achieved a satisfactory response, which meant at least 75% of their lesions had resolved.
For systemic conditions, success might look different. It could mean less fatigue, reduced inflammation, or fewer flare-ups. It’s important to set realistic expectations with your doctor and track your progress together. Remember, phototherapy is a gradual process, and improvement happens over weeks and months of consistent treatment, not overnight.
Factors That Affect Your Results
Several factors can influence how well phototherapy works for you. Your specific condition, its severity, your skin type, and how closely you follow your treatment plan all play a significant role. Following the prescribed guidelines from your doctor is essential for both safety and effectiveness.
Access to care is another critical piece of the puzzle. The ability to attend sessions consistently, whether in a clinic or at home, directly impacts your outcome. Research has shown that challenges like insurance copays can be a barrier for in-office treatments, highlighting the need for better coverage of home phototherapy machines. Having a convenient way to stick to your schedule can make all the difference in achieving the results you’re looking for.
At Home vs. In the Clinic: Which Is Right for You?
Once you and your doctor decide that phototherapy is a good fit, the next question is where you’ll receive your treatments. Both at-home and in-clinic options have their own advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific condition, lifestyle, and what’s most accessible for you. This is a decision you’ll make with your care provider to create a plan that helps you stay consistent and get the best possible results. Let’s walk through the key considerations for each setting.
The Case for At-Home Phototherapy
For many people, the biggest advantage of at-home phototherapy is convenience. Life is busy, and traveling to a clinic several times a week can be a major hurdle. Treating yourself at home on your own schedule makes it much easier to stick with your treatment plan consistently. Over time, it can also be more cost-effective by eliminating repeat travel expenses and insurance co-pays for each session. With a prescription from your doctor, you can use an FDA-cleared device designed for safety and ease of use. This option gives you more control over your treatment schedule, fitting powerful therapy into your daily life without the constant back-and-forth to a clinic.
The Benefits of In-Clinic Treatment
Receiving phototherapy in a clinical setting offers the peace of mind that comes with direct medical supervision. A trained professional will manage every session, adjusting dosages and monitoring your skin’s response in real time. This is especially helpful when you’re just starting out or if you have a more complex condition. Clinics often have larger, full-body units that can treat widespread areas efficiently. For patients dealing with both skin symptoms and systemic inflammation, in-clinic phototherapy can provide a dual benefit under a watchful eye. It’s a great way to ensure your treatment is precisely calibrated, and many people start in a clinic before transitioning to home therapy later.
Considering Cost, Insurance, and Access
The practical side of your decision often comes down to cost and accessibility. Insurance coverage for phototherapy varies, so it’s important to talk to your provider to understand what they cover for both in-clinic sessions and at-home units. While a home device has an upfront cost, it may be more affordable long-term than recurring co-pays and travel for clinic visits. The Light Treatment Effectiveness (LITE) Study highlighted that co-pays can be a significant barrier for patients. Your location also matters. If you live far from a clinic, at-home treatment might be the most realistic way to access consistent care. Your doctor can help you weigh these factors and navigate the prescription process to find the best path forward.
Talking to Your Doctor: Key Questions to Ask
Starting any new treatment can feel a little overwhelming, but having an open conversation with your doctor is the best way to feel confident and prepared. Phototherapy is a partnership between you and your healthcare provider, and asking the right questions ensures you’re both on the same page. This conversation is a key part of exploring innovative treatment options that are right for you. Think of this as your chance to build a solid foundation for your treatment plan, covering everything from your health history to your long-term goals.
Sharing Your Medical and Medication History
This is the most important part of your initial discussion. Your doctor needs a complete picture of your health to ensure phototherapy is a safe option for you. Be ready to discuss your full medical history, including any past skin conditions or sensitivities. It’s especially important to “always tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking,” including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and vitamins. Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to light, so providing a comprehensive list helps your doctor tailor the treatment safely and effectively, preventing potential side effects before they start.
Setting Realistic Goals for Your Treatment
It’s natural to want to see results right away, but phototherapy is a gradual process. Ask your doctor what a realistic timeline looks like for your specific condition. While some people “start to see improvements after 6 to 8 treatments, it can take 15 to 25 treatments to see full results.” Understanding this from the beginning helps manage expectations and keeps you motivated. Discuss what “success” looks like for you. Is it less inflammation? More energy? Clearer skin? Setting clear, achievable goals together will help you and your doctor measure progress and stay focused on what matters most to your quality of life.
How to Track Progress and Adjust Your Plan
Your treatment plan isn’t set in stone; it’s a dynamic process that you and your doctor will manage together. Ask how you’ll track your progress and how often you’ll have check-ins. It’s also crucial to know what to watch for between appointments. Your doctor should explain how to monitor for side effects and when to reach out. For example, you should “contact your doctor if you experience signs of infection, severe burning, pain, blistering, worsening side effects, or new symptoms after treatment.” Regular communication ensures your plan can be adjusted as needed, keeping your treatment both safe and effective as you move forward.
Debunking Common Phototherapy Myths
When you’re exploring new treatments, it’s easy to run into conflicting information. Phototherapy is no exception. It’s a well-established medical treatment, but a few persistent myths can cause confusion. Let’s clear the air and separate fact from fiction so you can feel confident in your conversations with your doctor. Understanding what phototherapy is—and what it isn’t—is a key step in deciding if it’s the right path for you.
Myth: It’s Only for Skin Conditions
This is probably the most common misconception about phototherapy. Because it has been used for decades to treat chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, many people assume that’s where its benefits end. While it’s true that narrowband UVB light therapy has a long and successful history in dermatology, its application is much broader. Researchers are now exploring how its immune-calming effects can provide innovative treatment options for systemic autoimmune diseases. The therapy works by reducing inflammation, a root cause of symptoms in many conditions that go far beyond the skin.
Myth: It Isn’t Safe or Effective
Any treatment involving ultraviolet light understandably raises questions about safety. However, phototherapy is not the same as using a tanning bed. It uses a very specific, therapeutic wavelength of light (narrowband UVB) administered in controlled, timed doses prescribed by a doctor. This method has been studied for decades and is an FDA-cleared treatment. Clinical studies show that narrowband UVB has measurable anti-inflammatory effects and can be an effective immune-calming therapy for patients with conditions like multiple sclerosis. When used as directed, it has a strong safety profile.
Understanding What Phototherapy Can (and Can’t) Do
It’s important to have realistic expectations. Phototherapy isn’t a cure-all, but it is a powerful tool for managing inflammation. It works by slowing down the overproduction of inflammatory cells that drive autoimmune responses. While it can lead to significant symptom improvement, it’s also associated with some potential side effects. The most common ones are mild and temporary, like redness, itching, or a feeling similar to a slight sunburn. These reactions are well-documented in clinical reviews of phototherapy for vitiligo and other conditions, and your provider will guide you on how to manage them.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is phototherapy the same as using a tanning bed? Not at all. Think of phototherapy as a precise medical tool. It uses a very specific, prescribed dose of a single wavelength of light—narrowband UVB—to achieve a therapeutic effect. Tanning beds, on the other hand, use a broad and uncontrolled mix of UV rays. Phototherapy is always administered under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure it’s both safe and effective for your specific condition.
How long does it take to see results from phototherapy? Patience and consistency are your best friends here. Phototherapy is a gradual process, not an overnight fix. While every person’s journey is different, you might start noticing improvements after several weeks of consistent treatment. The key is sticking to the schedule your doctor creates for you, as the benefits build up over time with each session.
What does a phototherapy session feel like? Are there side effects? The sessions themselves are very quick, often lasting just a few minutes. During the treatment, you’ll wear protective eyewear and won’t feel much at all. Afterward, it’s common for your skin to feel a bit like it has a mild sunburn, with some temporary redness or itching. These effects are usually minor and can be easily managed by keeping your skin well-moisturized and protecting it from the sun.
Can phototherapy help with inflammation that isn’t on my skin? Yes, and this is one of the most exciting areas of research. While phototherapy is well-known for treating skin conditions, its benefits go deeper. The specific light used in narrowband UVB therapy can help calm and regulate your immune system’s response throughout your body. This makes it a promising treatment for the systemic inflammation that drives symptoms in conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Do I need a prescription to start phototherapy? You absolutely do. Phototherapy is a medical treatment that must be prescribed and supervised by a healthcare provider. This ensures the treatment is tailored to your specific health needs, skin type, and condition. Your first step is always a consultation with your doctor to determine if phototherapy is the right choice for you and to create a safe, personalized plan.
