Phototherapy Treatment is one of the best-recognized and most effective ways to treat stubborn skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. Also referred to as light therapy, phototherapy uses controlled ultraviolet (UV) light to slow the growth of abnormal skin cells, decrease inflammation, and promote skin restoration.
If you’ve been referred for phototherapy, knowing what to expect in phototherapy can help the overall experience be safe, smooth, and enjoyable in totality.
The detailed informative guidance below will walk you through the phototherapy process step-by-step, including the process, benefits and care.
Understanding Phototherapy Treatment
Phototherapy Treatment consists of using wavelengths of UV light under the physician’s supervision, with the most common forms being UVB and UVA. The light will penetrate the targeted layers of skin to manipulate the immune response, minimize scaling, and assist with evenly distributing pigmentation.
It has been a staple therapy in Clinical dermatology. for decades, backed up by evidence, and is commonly prescribed for:
- Psoriasis – for decreasing scaling and itching.
- Vitiligo– for stimulating the production of melanocytes.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)- for calming inflammation and redness.
- Lichen Planus and Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma – for controlling excessive activity of the immune system.
Depending on the diagnosis, dermatologists will also use:
- Narrowband UVB (311-313 nm) – This is the most commonly used and is safe for long-term use.
- Broadband UVB- for large areas or thicker plaques.
- PUVA (Psoralen + UVA) – allows UV light to penetrate deeper levels of skin and is used with a photosensitizing medication to increase absorption of the UV light into the skin.
Before the Phototherapy Procedure
Preparation is key to ensuring your skin responds best to treatment.
1. First Meeting with the Doctor
Your dermatologist assesses your history, medications, and skin type. Your dermatologist is careful to examine the possibility of photosensitivity, pregnancy, and previous skin cancers before beginning therapy.
2. Patch Test
Your doctor assesses a small area of skin to determine any UV sensitivity through dermoscopy techniques. This map will aid your doctor in determining the appropriate starting dose and avoiding side effects such as burning.
3. Pre-Treatment Instructions
Do not apply any perfumes, lotions, or oils before each session.
- Remove any metal jewelry or accessories.
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
- Cover any sensitive areas as instructed (i.e., eyes, genitals).
If you are undergoing oral PUVA therapy, take the psoralen tablets about 1.5-2 hours before your therapy.
During the Phototherapy Session
The healing light does its job here. The phototherapy procedure steps are set up with maximum accuracy and comfort in mind.
Step 1: Protective preparation
Before entering the phototherapy chamber, each of our patients goes through:
- Goggles that block UV rays for eye protection.
- Face shields or garments for protecting the unaffected areas.
- Petroleum jelly for the dry patches to prevent overexposure.
Step 2: Light exposure
You will either stand or sit inside the phototherapy booth that is lined with vertical panel UV lamps, depending on whether it is full-body phototherapy or localized.
- The time inside the phototherapy box during your session ranges from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. Duration will increase slowly with light exposure as you tolerate the treatment.
- The doctor will change the wavelength of the light and duration of time using the digital controls to always keep a consistent dose.
- A hand-held device or small panel device can be used for targeted phototherapy treatment on the face, hands, and scalp.
Step 3: Observation and adjustment
- Your skin will be watched closely during the first few sessions to monitor its response. Based on how your skin looks and your tolerance of the treatment, the dermatologist will increase or decrease the time of exposure.
- Most patients receive treatment 2-3 times a week for several weeks or several months, depending on the severity of the skin condition.
After the Phototherapy Session
After you complete the treatment, your skin will continue to react to UV exposure for several hours. Aftercare is important for healing and minimizing side effects.
1. Immediate Take Care:
- Apply moisturizers recommended by your dermatologist and soothe the skin.
- Avoid the sun for at least 24 hours or so after your treatment.
- Do not scratch or exfoliate the treated area.
2. Common Reactions (Mild and Transient)
- Slight redness or warmth (like mild sunburn).
- Temporary tanning or dryness.
- Mild itching or flaking.
These reactions typically resolve within 24-48 hours. If irritation persists, your doctor may suggest a cooling gel or mild corticosteroid available through our clinical dermatology services.
3. Long-Term Care
As symptoms get better, your dermatologist will likely decrease your frequency of sessions. Some patients will transition to maintenance phototherapy, which would be every other week to maintain control of the condition.
At your follow-ups, you can expect that everything stays stable and you do not receive extra UV exposure unnecessarily.
Expected Results & Benefits
The outcome of phototherapy is variable based on condition, frequency of treatment, and skin type; however, most patients will see an improvement after 6–10 sessions.
Key Advantages:
- Reduces inflammation and scales.
- Improves skin tone in patients with vitiligo.
- Improves the moisture and barrier function of the skin.
- Reduces dependence on orally or topically administered steroids.
- Provides long-term remission of chronic disorders.
Dermatologic studies report that narrowband UVB can reduce the symptoms of Psoriasis by 80% in 8–12 weeks when paired with moisturizers or medicated topical creams.
Potential Side Effects & Precautions
While this is a very effective treatment, phototherapy must be performed under a physician’s supervision to ensure its safety.
The possible adverse reactions include:
- Minor sunburn-like erythema.
- Temporary dry skin or pruritus.
- Rarely, blistering or hyperpigmentation.
- Long-term exposure to UV may increase the risk of slight premature aging.
To mitigate adverse effects, your dermatologist will:
- Track the cumulative UV exposure.
- Continuously monitor your skin through dermoscopy examinations.
- Block the sensitive areas with shielding material.
With these safeguards, phototherapy is one of the safest non-invasive dermatologic interventions available.
Who Should Avoid Phototherapy?
Phototherapy may be contraindicated if the person has a:
- History of skin cancer or precancerous lesions.
- Photosensitive disorder (e.g., lupus).
- Pregnancy (with certain PUVA).
- Active infection or open wound.
Always consult your dermatologist with regard to treatment if you are taking antibiotics, isotretinoin, or have taken another photosensitizing medication.
What to Expect in Phototherapy: Realistic Expectations
Understanding that phototherapy treatment takes time and is not a cure is very important. You may see some change within a week or two, but regular follow-up appointments and skincare will be critical.
The skin may get a little darker at the beginning or feel warm to the touch; this is expected. Over time, inflammation calms down, pigmentation is more even, and any flares are less frequent.
Patients who stick to the treatment schedule and the skincare plan get better and longer-lasting results. For complementary treatments, explore our aesthetic services for comprehensive skin health.
Skinstitute: Where Science Meets Skin Health
At Skinstitute, phototherapy is not merely a treatment option; it is a progression that aims to replenish your skin confidence through precision, care, and technology. Our dermatology experts will combine their medical expertise with personal care to put you at ease while you uniquely receive dermatological care in a safe, efficient, and transformative manner.
Skinstitute uses advanced narrowband UVB chambers and specific protocols based on your skin type and presentation to modify and customize your phototherapy intervention. It doesn’t matter whether you are addressing chronic eczema or are trying to repigment patches of vitiligo; the purpose is the same: to enable your skin to heal naturally and beautifully.
When you choose Skinstitute, you have chosen a reliable partner in your longer-term journey to skin wellness, where light can become therapy. Book your consultation today to start your phototherapy journey.
Key Takeaways
- Phototherapy treatment utilizes controlled ultraviolet light for chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.
- Patients first go through a consultation, including a medical history, patch testing, and assessment for safety.
- Sessions are short, safe, and increase in duration gradually to optimize skin benefits.
- After treatment, it’s imperative to moisturize the skin and protect it from sun exposure.
- With experienced supervision, phototherapy can allow for visible changes in texture, tone, and comfort.
- At Skinstitute, each plan is designed with clinical precision and genuine care to help restore confidence and health to your skin.
Final Thought:
Phototherapy goes beyond just being a clinical procedure. It is a science-backed process of restoring comfort and confidence from within. With the help of a professional and consistency, your skin can achieve its natural balance, glow, and strength.
