Types of Phototherapy

Phototherapy is "a form of treatment for skin conditions using artificial light wavelengths from the ultraviolet (blue light) part of the sun's spectrum," according to the Australasian College of Dermatologists. Phototherapy patients undergo exposure to artificial ultraviolet light for a certain amount of time. Doctors use it to treat conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, lymphoma and general cases of itchy skin. Phototherapy consists of four basic types of treatment.

UVA (PUVA)

• The term UVA stands for ultraviolet light, type A. This type of phototherapy involves taking a tablet called Psoralen, which helps to sensitize the skin. In some cases, doctors may apply light sensitizing creams and lotions in some skin locations instead of a tablet.

Broadband UVB

• UVB stand for Ultraviolet light, type B. Patients receive exposure to a broad range of UVB wavelengths. Doctors often use it to treat psoriasis, and the procedures have been in place for a long time. It cannot treat areas with skin folds and it might cause sunburn, which makes the patients more vulnerable on hot summer days.

Narrow Brand UVB

• This type of treatment "emits a narrower range of UVB wavelengths," according to the NYU Langone Medical Center. This is a relatively new treatment, used to address many skin conditions. In some cases, doctors also use the narrow brand UVB treatment to address psoriasis.

Excimer Laser

• This type of phototherapy treatment uses an excimer laser to emit smaller amounts of ultraviolet light than in the narrow brand UVB treatment. Doctors apply the treatment on different skin areas; it constitutes one of the newest phototherapy treatments.