Phototherapy
Also known as light therapy, phototherapy uses various wavelengths of ultraviolet light to treat skin conditions that cause inflammation (redness, itch) and conditions that cause loss of colour. Unlike UVA therapy, UVB is the safest and most commonly used form of ultraviolet light. Narrow band ultraviolet light B (NBUVB) is beneficial for a whole host of skin conditions and at Q Dermatology we have the latest in light therapy imported from Germany.
Vitiligo, psoriasis, eczema, chronic itch and even some skin lymphomas can be safely and effectively treated using phototherapy. The frequency and doses are determined by your particular skin condition and circumstances. Phototherapy does not contain any nasty ultra-violet light A, and in fact is safe enough to be used during pregnancy and for children. Patients stand inside a specialised cabinet lined with medical grade UVB emitting light tubes. In general treatments are quite short and may gradually build up to a few minutes at a time.
Provided you have a valid referral and access to Medicare, there is no out of pocket fee for phototherapy. An initial course of treatment is usually performed three times weekly for twelve weeks.
Please visit A-Z of skin: Australasian College of Dermatologists