Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition caused by dysfunction of the immune system. The most common type of psoriasis results in the buildup of thick plaques of skin. People with psoriasis can also develop problems with their nails. In about half of people with psoriasis, arthritis develops. All of these conditions are painful and have proven difficult to treat with medications. Many people have been able to find relief from psoriasis with light booth therapy.
At Pinnacle Dermatology in Birmingham, we can help keep your psoriasis symptoms under control with light booth therapy. Our medical staff is trained and educated in treating a variety of dermatological conditions. If you’re struggling with psoriasis or any other skin issues, contact Pinnacle Dermatology today to schedule your consultation. We can customize a treatment option that is tailored to your needs.
Types of Light Booth Therapy Used for Psoriasis
There are several types of light booth therapy that people with psoriasis can try for reducing problematic skin symptoms. UVB is a popular light booth therapy method that involves the administration of UVB energy waves. This type of energy is also present in natural sunlight. UVB light booth therapy can be done with broad band waves or narrow band waves; both are equally effective at slowing down the growth of skin plaques. Another popular method is PUVA light booth therapy. This involves the use of UVA energy with the addition of a light-sensitizing medication called psoralen.
How Light Booth Therapy for Psoriasis Is Performed
When you come into the dermatology clinic for narrow band UVB therapy, you will be taken to a private room that is set up with the UV-generating system. Our staff will prescribe the duration and frequency of your light booth therapy treatments. In the beginning of your psoriasis treatments, you may need to come in more frequently. As your skin begins to clear, you may not need to come in as often unless you experience a flare-up of your condition.
How Light Booth Therapy for Psoriasis Works to Reduce Symptoms
Light booth therapy for psoriasis works to get rid of uncomfortable and unsightly skin plaques because the UV energy kills the cells that are growing too rapidly. The controlled exposure to UV energy suppresses the growth of inflammatory cells and stops them from multiplying. This non-invasive approach to reduction of psoriasis symptoms can be used in conjunction with other methods like prescription medications for the best results. Even if light booth therapy is used alone, it is highly effective at restoring the skin to a healthy state.
Benefits of Light Booth Therapy for Psoriasis
Light booth therapy is generally well tolerated for most people with psoriasis. The side effects are few, generally mild and short-lived. To get the most out of your light booth therapy sessions, gently remove as much of the plaque buildup as you can before each session. Using a moisturizer before a light booth therapy session may also help with faster skin healing and resolving of the plaques.
