Are phototherapy lights UV?

Phototherapy uses a man-made source of UV light. UV light also comes from the sun. When combined with a medication called psoralen, the procedure is known as psoralen UVA (PUVA). UV light shuts down immune system cells in the skin.

What is UV phototherapy used for?

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is the use of ultraviolet (UV) light for its healing effects. Phototherapy has been used worldwide for nearly a century to treat chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo and severe eczema.

What are the side effects of ultraviolet light treatment?

Side effects of light therapy

• mild sunburn, which typically is not serious and is possible to resolve by changing the UV dosage.
• a stinging or itching sensation.
• an increased likelihood of cold sores in people prone to them.
• signs of premature aging of the skin, such as dark spots and loose or leathery skin.
• blisters.

How does UV light treat psoriasis?

Phototherapy is a type of psoriasis treatment that may make the pain and itchiness of the condition go away. It often uses ultraviolet (UV) light, which reduces inflammation and slows down the creation of skin cells.

Can you get tan from phototherapy?

Significant side effects are uncommon, but a mild sunburn is not. It is at it’s worst about 8 hours after the treatment and fades over the next few days. A severe blistering burn is rare when UVB is properly administered but can happen. Everyone will develop some degree of tan.

Is UV therapy safe?

UV light therapy can have various side effects. For instance, the radiation can dry out your skin and cause itching. So people are advised to thoroughly moisturize their skin with a lipid-replenishing skin care product immediately after the treatment. Light therapy also often causes sunburn-like skin reactions.

What are the risks of phototherapy?

The short-term side effects of phototherapy include interference with maternal-infant interaction, imbalance of thermal environment and water loss, electrolyte disturbance, bronze baby syndrome and circadian rhythm disorder.

How long can you do phototherapy?

There are no specific guidelines for when to discontinue phototherapy. Evidence of hemolysis and age of the infant will impact the duration. In some cases, phototherapy will only be needed for 24 hours or less, in some cases, it may be required for 5 to 7 days.

How long does phototherapy tan last?

In some cases, phototherapy will only be needed for 24 hours or less, in some cases, it may be required for 5 to 7 days.