What is it?

Ultraviolet light therapy—sometimes referred to as phototherapy—uses a bright light to treat various skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and specific forms of dermatitis. There are different types of light therapy treatment; the most common is broadband UVB, which uses UV light, type B. Narrow band UVB uses a narrower range of UVB wavelengths and reaches more specific areas, even in skin folds. PUVA is a UVA light treatment that includes a medication called “psoralen” - a group of photosensitizing drugs made from plants. The last type of light therapy treatment is through the use of lasers, which emit UV light directed at specific skin areas.

What to expect

Depending on the level of light therapy being used, we may use sunscreen to protect the areas of your body that are not being treated. Goggles will be provided to protect your eyes from the UV light. The duration of ultraviolet light therapy varies based on your skin type and the intensity of the light selected for your specific condition. Typically, a series of treatments is required until the condition improves and the problem areas are resolved.

Please note, this treatment is exclusively available at our Elkhart location.