Phototherapy using a light box can be an effective non-invasive treatment for several skin conditions. Patients with conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and vitiligo may benefit from this treatment at West Sound Dermatology in Poulsbo, WA.
Phototherapy is a treatment which uses specific types of light to improve the skin’s health, typically by suppressing an over-active immune response. Several types of phototherapy are available to treat various conditions which may use broadband UVB, narrowband UVB or psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) light. At West Sound Dermatology, our phototherapy treatment is administered through light boxes.
Light box phototherapy can be beneficial for a wide range of skin conditions. Some examples include:
In most cases, phototherapy is used to resolve an over-active immune response. Prior to your treatment, you may be instructed to use a topical medication to enhance photosensitivity and the overall effectiveness of phototherapy. A light box is then used to expose the treatment area to specific types of light. This can be completed in our office, with most treatments taking 30 minutes or less. Most patients will receive two to three sessions of phototherapy weekly for the duration of their treatment.
While many patients are good candidates for light therapy, some conditions may disqualify you from candidacy. These include melanoma or other types of skin cancer. Those who experience photosensitivity as a side effect of medications (such as antibiotics, antifungals or diuretics) or conditions such as lupus should not undergo light therapy.
To learn more about phototherapy, schedule an appointment at West Sound Dermatology by calling (360) 824-5474.
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