Phototherapy: Learn how to treat skin diseases with lights

Do you have a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis that is difficult to treat? Or have you ever seen your newborn baby with jaundice being treated under a blue light? Today we are going to talk about a special treatment method that is used in such cases. This is called phototherapy. Simply put, it is used to treat certain conditions by directing controlled light rays to the skin.

What is this ultraviolet (UV) light that is used?

Ultraviolet rays, or UV rays as we all know them, are actually something that is found in sunlight. They help our bodies make vitamin D. But like anything, too much UV rays can damage the skin.

But don't worry. Phototherapy uses the same UV rays, but under the supervision of a doctor in a very controlled manner. The doctor will decide exactly how much light to give your skin and for how long, so you can get the benefits of the treatment without harming your skin.

Two main types of UV rays are used for treatment.

Are there colored lights?

Yes, in addition to UV rays, other colors of light are also used for treatments.

• Blue light therapy: Jaundice in newborns is treated with these blue lights. This light helps remove the extra chemical called bilirubin from the baby's body.
• Red light therapy: This red light is used to treat things like wrinkles, redness, acne, and scars. Laser is another type of red light.

Can everyone have this treatment?

Generally, this treatment can be done by anyone, including children and adults, if the doctor recommends it. However, it may not be suitable for some people. If you have any of the conditions below, you should definitely talk to your doctor about whether this treatment is suitable for you.

• If you have a sun allergy.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you have liver disease.
• If you have a condition like lupus.
• If you have skin cancer.
• If you are using certain medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight.
• If you have genetic diseases that make you more susceptible to sun damage, such as xeroderma pigmentosa.

How is this treatment done?

This is a very simple process.

1. Preparation: Before the treatment, you will be given special glasses to protect your eyes. Sometimes you will be asked to cover the parts of your body that will not be treated. You may also be advised to apply sunscreen to some areas before the treatment.

2. During the treatment: You will be placed inside a light box. Then, the light will be turned on at the appropriate time. Sometimes, if only a small area of ​​the body is being treated, the doctor will use a small wand to direct the light.

3. Time: The first time may be completed in a few seconds. As the number of treatment sessions increases, the time may increase to a few minutes. Depending on your condition, the doctor will decide how many treatment sessions are needed and how long each session will last.

Typically, you will see significant changes after 6-8 treatment sessions, but some people may need 15-25 sessions to see full results.

What are the benefits and risks of this?

Like any medical treatment, this has benefits as well as some minor risks.

What do you do after treatment?

After treatment, you can continue to work normally. However, it is very important to follow the instructions given by the doctor.

• Apply sunscreen to treated areas.
• Protect your eyes when going outside.
• Apply a moisturizer every day to prevent skin dryness.
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun.

When should I see the doctor?

If you experience any of the symptoms below after treatment, see your doctor immediately.

• If there is still skin inflammation 24 hours after treatment.
• If blisters appear on the skin.
• If you experience symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and chills.
• If there are signs of infection, such as swelling and pus oozing from the treated area.
• If you notice a change in your vision.

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