UVB is a normal component of natural sunlight. Special fluorescent lights in a box deliver artificial UVB. Several different skin diseases including psoriasis, dermatitis and vitiligo have been effectively treated with UVB. Treatment is initially given 2-5 times per week, then less frequently once a response is seen.
What are the risks?
Eye protection during treatment is essential to prevent sunburn and damage to your eyes. UVB may be drying to the skin. Moisturizers may be used after treatment. Burning of the skin with redness, tenderness and occasionally blisters may occur despite all careful precautions. Inform the phototherapist BEFORE treatment if you have had any redness, tenderness or blisters. UVB may cause aging of the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sometimes UVB may worsen the skin disease.
Other medication:
If you start taking another medication including antibiotics, please inform the phototherapist or Dr. Guenther since some medications can make you more sensitive to UVB and could increase the risk of sunburn.
During treatment:
Stand in the middle of the light booth. Always wear the UV protective glasses and keep your eyes closed. Do not touch the light bulbs, but you may hold onto the support bars. The male genitalia and face are usually covered, unless affected by disease. The genitals can be covered with underwear, a sock or athletic support. The same size and height of underwear should be worn every treatment to prevent unnecessary burning. Underwear should not be used if the skin condition affects the buttocks. The face may be covered with sunscreen applied 20-30 minutes prior to treatment, or thick towel. Only the phototherapist or Dr. Guenther may turn on the light box.
After treatment:
Avoid sunlight for 24 hours after treatment since it may promote burning. If outdoor exposure is unavoidable, protective clothing, a broad-rimmed hat and sunscreen with SPF at least 30 should be worn on all exposed surfaces.