Phototherapy – what is it and what does it treat

Phototherapy is a type of treatment that uses light to heal various medical conditions. It has been used for centuries, but only recent technological advances have made it possible to practice phototherapy more effectively and safely than ever before.

Use of phototherapy

Phototherapy provides an effective non-invasive treatment option for many different types of medical problems, including those related to skin health and mental well-being. Phototherapy can be used to treat various skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema and acne, as well as other conditions such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or depression.

What is phototherapy

The most common form of phototherapy is narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB). This type of therapy involves irradiating the affected area directly with UVB rays from special lamps designed for this purpose. The length and level of intensity are carefully regulated by the doctor so that only enough radiation reaches the target area without damaging the surrounding tissues or causing burns on the surface of the skin. In addition, some newer forms of NB-UVB systems allow physicians to have more control over the amount of radiation administered during each session, which helps ensure that appropriate dose levels are achieved while minimizing any potential side effects associated with overexposure to UV light sources.