UVB Light Treatments
Ultraviolet light B (UVB) therapy is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions including psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and chronic itching. UVB therapy is different from natural sunlight and tanning beds because it delivers a concentrated dose of UV light at a specific wavelength (311 nm), which minimizes the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
UVB treatments are performed in-office, 2-3 times weekly on a regular schedule. The affected skin is treated while standing in a light unit that uses swinging doors to completely encircle the body. Goggles are worn during this painless light exposure, which lasts less than five minutes. The goal, after at least 6-8 weeks of therapy, is to bring relief from rash and itch, and ideally, to induce remission of the underlying condition. It is not uncommon for patients to repeat a UVB series in the future on an as-needed basis.
