Ultraviolet phototherapy (UVB)
LIGHT TREATMENT FOR SKIN CONDITIONS
HCA UK provides light treatment for skin conditions to treat a range of disorders, including psoriasis and eczema.
What is ultraviolet phototherapy?
Ultraviolet phototherapy is used to provide an alternative method of treatment for inflammatory skin conditions. It uses fluorescent light bulbs and ultraviolet B (UVB) wavelengths of light to clear the condition and reduce inflammation.
Phototherapy can help to treat a range of chronic skin conditions including: psoriasis, eczema, polymorphic light eruption, generalised itching, pityriasis lichenoides, cutaneous T cell lymphoma, lichen planus and vitiligo.
There are two main types of ultraviolet phototherapy UVB:
- broadband UVB (BBUVB), where the full UVB light spectrum is used.
- narrowband UVB (NBUVB), where a small part of the UVB light spectrum is used.
Need to know
Ultraviolet phototherapy treatment typically takes a few seconds initially, and this will gradually increase to several minutes over the course of your treatment. In order to get the maximum benefit from the therapy, you will need to have treatment two or three times a week, over a course of up to 30 sessions.
During the treatment, you will be required to undress and wear goggles for the protection of your eyes, as well as a visor (or face shield) if the skin on your face is unaffected.
You may experience some redness or blistering after your treatment, it’s important to tell us if this happens. You may also find that your skin condition worsens temporarily after treatment. Again, you should inform your specialist nurse or consultant if this happens, in case we need to adjust your treatment to let it settle down.
Our Ultraviolet phototherapy (UVB) locations
The Wellington Hospital
London Bridge Hospital
The Harley Street Clinic
The Shard Outpatients
Elstree Waterfront Outpatients
Patient stories
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.