How Phototherapy Can Help Your Skin
If you suffer from skin conditions, such as psoriasis, vitiligo, or eczema, using phototherapy can help. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can not only help diagnose either of those skin conditions but also provide phototherapy as a treatment option. Learn more about each skin condition and how phototherapy can be a great treatment option.
How Phototherapy Helps Your Skin
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition in which the skin becomes itchy, red and inflamed. It can occur in just one area of the body, such as the arms, legs, face or back or all over. There is no one cause for psoriasis but is believed to be caused from an abnormality in the white blood cells. The abnormality triggers inflammation resulting in the itchy, red and inflamed skin and may also include white scales. Psoriasis can also be triggered from autoimmune diseases or dry and cold weather. If you think you have psoriasis, it is important to reach out to a dermatologist for proper diagnosis. Once diagnosed they can provide treatment options including phototherapy.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition where the skin loses its natural pigmentation and causes white spots to appear. It can occur on any skin color, but most often occurs on those with darker skin. Some develop a few white spots, while others develop spots all over their body. Vitiligo is caused by a lack of melanin which produces our skin color. When not enough is produced, white spots begin to appear. Through the use of phototherapy, it can help to slow color loss and help to provide the color back into the skin.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition in which the skin is characterized by red, swollen, scaly areas. It can be caused from genetics, allergic reactions, or weather changes, just to name a few. It can appear anywhere on the body from small to large areas and can be a chronic condition, or can be caused by specific triggers. Eczema should be diagnosed by a dermatologist who can then provide treatment options such as phototherapy.
Phototherapy for Psoriasis and Eczema
Once you are diagnosed with psoriasis, vitiligo or eczema, a treatment option provided by the dermatologist will include some type of phototherapy. Phototherapy involves exposing your affected skin to an ultraviolet light on a consistent basis. One example is ultraviolet light B (UVB) that is best suited for patients with psoriasis. The light penetrates the skin and slows the growth of the affected white blood cells. Treatment is done consistently and regularly to ensure the best results. An excimer laser is another treatment option. It directly targets the affected area with a high intensity UVB light. Two sessions a week for up to 10 weeks are needed for the best results. UVB and ultraviolet light A can help with psoriasis, vitiligo and eczema treatment. UVA is often combined with psoralen, a light sensitizing agent, that comes in pill form. They work together to slow down excessive skin cell growth.
Each option can be tested out to see which works best for your skin and the severity of the condition. Unfortunately, there is no cure-all but each of these options can lessen symptoms and the appearance of redness. Continued treatment is often needed to continue seeing results.
It is time to let phototherapy help your skin from your skin condition. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or surrounding areas, complete this form. A dermatologist from Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute will be in touch to inform you how phototherapy can help your skin.