UV Light Treatment / UVB Photo Therapy
Patient Information
Ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy involves standing in a light box, a closed-in cubicle which is lined with ultraviolet lights. You will not be locked into the light box. You may open the doors and exit the booth at any time during the treatment. In the beginning, treatment sessions may last around 30 seconds. Treatment times slowly increase, depending on patient tolerance and skin disease being treated. Please follow the guidelines below to assure a smooth and productive treatment experience.
- Males are required to wear an athletic supporter while in the light box. Females will undress completely for their treatment unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
- You will be given a pair of protective eye goggles. Your are required to wear them during the light exposure.
- While you are in the light box, stand in the middle at a normal stance. The lights are on all panels plus reflector sheets which dispense the light rays for uniform exposure.
- For psoriasis patients, apply mineral oil to your skin prior to the exposure to the light. This will decrease dryness and enhance the effectiveness of the light.
- Please notify the staff of any redness and/or tenderness you have during your treatment. At home, cool compresses and aspirin are helpful for mild sunburn reactions.
- Notify the staff if you begin any new medications during your treatment, as certain medications affect your sensitivity to UV light.
- All patients should use moisturizers frequently.
- Allow at least 48 hours in between treatments, or every other day, in order to prevent any burning.
- Avoid additional sunlight on the day of treatment to prevent any burning.
- Children undergoing UVB must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to the doctor's office.
- Timers are provided in the light boxes for your use so that you will be fully aware of the amount of time you receive light. The light boxes also have timers, but backup timers promote safety.
