Skin Phototherapy
Skin Phototherapy also known as light therapy is used for treating a number of skin conditions. It was first used in the treatment of psoriasis and it has proved effective for a number of other skin conditions including vitiligo, eczema, lymphoma and itchy skin. It should be noted that this treatment is not effective against all of the type of eczema and psoriasis and can actually intensify symptoms in some cases.
Phototherapy works by stimulating the skin’s immune system, which causes a reduction in inflammation and speeds the shedding of abnormal cells. Since it is impossible to specifically target the abnormal cells on a cellular level healthy cells will be hit as well, which has the potential side effect of burns, freckling, premature aging of the skin and possibly even skin cancer. The burns can be compared to a mild form of sunburn.
Consequently people who are sensitive to light or have medical problems including skin cancer, macular degeneration or a weakened immune system should not get this treatment. Phototherapy doesn’t work on all skin conditions and reponse to treatment is very individualized. This treatment should only be administered by properly trained personnel as the dosages and the patients response to treatment should be closely monitored and adjusted accordingly.
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