Light Therapy – The Solution Individuals with Skin Conditions Have Been Looking For

Medical professionals often turn to light therapy to treat various skin conditions. Ultraviolet light has been shown to minimize the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. In addition, it is often used to treat jaundice in newborns. How can the average person benefit from phototherapy? What should they know about this treatment before trying it? 

What is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy or light therapy involves using bright UV lights to treat various skin conditions. Ultraviolet light or radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and comes in several forms. Most associate this type of light with the sun, and this light helps the body produce Vitamin D. However, in large quantities, it can harm the skin. The UV light used for light therapy is the same type of light, but the user controls the amount of exposure to prevent skin damage. To learn more about light therapy devices, check out DermForge and its product lineup.

Ultraviolet Light Types

Light therapy may involve the use of UVA or UVB light. Ultraviolet light A features a long wavelength that penetrates the top two skin layers. Overexposure to this light leads to wrinkles, sunburn, and other skin damage. UVG light has a medium wavelength, so it cannot penetrate as deep. Medical professionals use this light to treat conditions that affect the top layer of skin, taking care to prevent the skin from burning. 

Phototherapy Lights

People need different phototherapy lights to treat various conditions. Blue LED lights are used in blue light therapy. Many people have been warned about the blue light cell phones emit. Phototherapy uses this same light to treat the skin and is commonly used as part of a jaundice treatment plan. Red light therapy is used to treat acne, scars, wrinkles, and redness of the skin.

Who is a Good Candidate for Light Therapy?

Most people, including babies and senior citizens, can undergo light therapy safely. However, some people need to speak to their medical doctor to learn if they have any conditions that can make this treatment unsafe. Anyone with a sun allergy should avoid light therapy, as it will cause them to break out in hives much as they do when they go in the sun. 

Men and women who have been treated for skin cancer should talk with their doctor before undergoing UVA phototherapy to ensure it won’t cause more problems than it will solve. Pregnant and nursing women need to avoid light therapy until the baby has been weaned, and anyone with liver disease should consider other treatment options. 

Individuals with lupus aren’t good candidates for light therapy, and the same holds for those with a genetic disease that increases sun sensitivity. Xeroderma pigmentosa is a good example. Certain medications increase a person’s sensitivity to the sun, so always talk with a doctor before beginning light therapy to ensure it is the right choice. 

Conditions Phototherapy May Treat

Phototherapy may be used to treat many skin disorders beyond eczema and psoriasis. Vitiligo and jaundice are two disorders that respond well to light therapy. Patients with morphea or mycosis fungoides should also speak with their doctor to learn whether this is a treatment option that should be considered. 

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Light Therapy

Light therapy helps reduce skin inflammation while minimizing itchiness. Symptoms flares seen with skin issues like dermatitis decrease. However, there may be some skin redness following a treatment session, and the skin may feel dry. Overexposure can lead to burns and blisters, like those seen with sunburn. In addition, excessive exposure can lead to premature aging, fine lines, and wrinkles. The individual may develop skin cancer with prolonged use of UVA light therapy. 

Always talk with a doctor before trying light therapy. They can explain the benefits, risks, and side effects for the condition being treated. Also, share with them any medications and supplements being taken, as they may also interact with light therapy. With proper use of UV lights and caution, many people will have great results.