Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light under controlled medical conditions.

The most commonly used form is narrowband UVB (NB-UVB), which delivers a precise wavelength of light that is effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions while minimizing unnecessary exposure.

Phototherapy works by:

• Reducing inflammation in the skin
• Slowing excessive skin cell turnover
• Modulating the immune response

It is a well-established treatment with a long track record of safety and effectiveness.

Psoriasis

Phototherapy is a cornerstone treatment for psoriasis.

It can help:

• Reduce scaling and plaque thickness
• Improve redness and inflammation
• Achieve more consistent disease control

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

For patients with moderate to severe eczema, phototherapy can:

• Decrease itching and inflammation
• Improve skin barrier function
• Reduce reliance on topical medications

Chronic Itching (Pruritus)

Phototherapy is also used for patients with persistent itching related to various underlying conditions.

Other Conditions

Phototherapy may be recommended for additional dermatologic conditions, including:

• Prurigo nodularis
• Certain forms of dermatitis
• Granuloma annulare
• Other inflammatory skin disorders

Treatment is tailored based on the specific diagnosis.

Phototherapy treatments are performed in the office using a specialized light unit.

During treatment:

• The patient stands in a phototherapy booth or receives targeted treatment to specific areas
• Exposure to UV light is carefully timed and gradually increased
• Protective measures, such as eye protection, are used

Each session is brief, typically lasting only a few minutes.

Frequency of Treatment

Phototherapy is most effective when performed consistently.

Patients are typically treated:

• Two to three times per week

The exact schedule is adjusted based on the condition being treated and response to therapy.

Improvement is usually gradual.

Patients may begin to notice:

• Reduced itching
• Decreased redness and scaling
• Overall improvement in skin appearance

Meaningful results are often seen after several weeks of consistent treatment.

The duration of phototherapy varies depending on the condition and response. Some patients undergo a defined course of treatment, while others benefit from maintenance therapy to prevent recurrence.

Treatment plans are adjusted over time to balance effectiveness and convenience.

When performed under medical supervision, phototherapy is considered safe and well tolerated.

Common side effects may include:

• Mild redness or dryness
• Temporary tanning

The treatment is carefully monitored to minimize the risk of overexposure.

At Treiber Dermatology, dosing is individualized and adjusted gradually to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Phototherapy is appropriate for patients who:

• Have moderate to severe psoriasis or eczema
• Have widespread or persistent skin involvement
• Have not responded adequately to topical treatments
• Prefer a non-systemic treatment option

A thorough evaluation is performed to determine whether phototherapy is the right choice.

At Treiber Dermatology, phototherapy is integrated into a broader treatment plan that may include topical therapies, systemic medications, and skincare guidance.

This structured approach allows for improved control of chronic conditions while minimizing the need for more aggressive treatments when possible.

Patients throughout New York and Connecticut choose Treiber Dermatology for phototherapy because of the practice’s expertise in managing complex inflammatory skin conditions.

Care is known for being:

• Structured and well-monitored
• Tailored to individual response
• Convenient and efficient
• Focused on long-term disease control

The emphasis is on delivering consistent, meaningful improvement.