Phototherapy – Light-Based Treatment for Skin Conditions

Phototherapy is a technique used to treat skin diseases by exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light waves of different wavelengths. Depending on the wavelength used during the procedure, phototherapy is classified into the following types:

broadband UVB (270–350 nm)
narrowband UVB (311–313 nm)
UVA (320–400 nm)
PUVA (psoralen + UVA)

UVB phototherapy has anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and immunosuppressive effects. However, these effects are localized, meaning the treatment targets only the skin. As a result, phototherapy is often considered safer than many systemic medications that affect the whole body.

UVA phototherapy penetrates deeper into the skin layers and helps soften thickened skin caused by chronic diseases.

PUVA phototherapy is the most intensive form of light therapy. It is used for more severe conditions, particularly when other types of phototherapy have not produced the desired results.

Conditions Treated with Phototherapy in Dermatology

Phototherapy is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including:

parapsoriasis, psoriasis
pityriasis lichenoides
eczema, atopic dermatitis
vitiligo
photodermatitis
actinic prurigo
cutaneous porphyria
mycosis fungoides and other related conditions

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When Phototherapy Is Not Recommended

Phototherapy is contraindicated in patients with the following conditions:

dysplastic nevus syndrome
systemic lupus erythematosus
dermatomyositis
genetic cancer syndromes (e.g., xeroderma pigmentosum, Gorlin syndrome)
Bloom syndrome, Cockayne syndrome
patients who are unwilling or unable to follow safety protocols during treatment
patients with poor general health or severe comorbidities (e.g., advanced heart, vascular, or respiratory disease)

Conclusion

Phototherapy is a safe, simple, and effective procedure commonly used for treating chronic inflammatory skin conditions. Compared to drug therapies, it is often chosen for its lower risk of side effects and more affordable cost.