Light therapy

Light therapy

Light therapy is used in dermatology for the treatment of skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis and pruritus (itching). Light therapy has a very beneficial effect on these skin diseases and is well tolerated by patients.

What is light therapy?

Light therapy involves the use of UVA or UVB light. UVB is most commonly used, particularly to treat the entire body. Wetering Medical Centre uses UVB (TL01) therapy, the most advanced type of light therapy.

UVB has a very strong effect on the skin; it is the part of sunlight that causes sunburn. That is why, at the start of UVB therapy, very short exposure times (about thirty seconds) are used.

What can you expect during light therapy?

During a session, a trained professional will use a handheld UVB device to target the affected areas of your skin. This method ensures that only the areas needing treatment are exposed to the UVB light. Protective goggles will be provided to shield your eyes during the procedure.

Most patients find the process to be straightforward and tolerable. Sessions are brief, with exposure times increasing gradually up to a maximum of eight minutes per session.

How long does light therapy take at Medical Centre Wetering?

The optimum exposure time is one that is just long enough not to cause you to burn. Exposure time is gradually increased during treatment. The maximum exposure time is usually no more than eight minutes. You will not need to take any medication during UVB therapy. UVB treatment is usually given two or three times weekly, depending on the disease and type of exposure. The entire treatment lasts between eight and sixteen weeks, depending on the result.

Aftercare for light therapy

After treatment, the skin may feel dry, sensitive, or slightly sunburned. It is important to moisturize the treated areas with a recommended emollient to reduce discomfort and dryness. If you experience prolonged irritation or burning lasting more than 24 hours, inform the nurse or dermatologist so your treatment plan can be adjusted.

Frequently Asked Questions about Light therapy

When is light therapy recommended?

Light therapy may be considered for skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or persistent itching, especially when topical treatments like creams or ointments are not sufficiently effective. Whether light therapy is suitable for your situation depends on various factors, including your skin condition, medical history, and previous treatments. The dermatologist will assess your situation and discuss whether light therapy fits into your personalised treatment plan.

What are the possible side effects of light therapy?

Some people may experience mild skin reactions during UVB light therapy, such as redness, itching, or dry skin. In certain cases, the skin may temporarily become lighter or darker in colour. How your skin responds depends on factors such as your skin type and the duration of the treatment. To minimise irritation, exposure times are gradually increased and carefully controlled using a professional light therapy lamp. Protective goggles are provided when needed to shield your eyes during the procedure. Your dermatologist will explain what to expect and how to care for your skin during the treatment period.

How quickly does light therapy work?

Results from light therapy vary from person to person. Some patients notice improvement after a few weeks, while others may need more sessions before seeing results. In conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, it’s common for the effects to build gradually over time. It’s important to follow the treatment schedule consistently to give your skin the best chance to respond. Your dermatologist will monitor your progress and adjust the plan if necessary.

How do I know if light therapy is right for me?

The suitability of light therapy is determined by the dermatologist after assessing your diagnosis, skin type, and overall health. Factors such as medication use, sensitivity to sunlight, or pregnancy are also taken into account. Light therapy is not appropriate for everyone, but it may be a useful option in many cases. During your consultation, the dermatologist will explain how the therapy works, how the UVB light therapy lamp is used, and what you can expect during treatment.