Light Therapy (Phototherapy)

Narrow Band UVB Phototherapy

Consist of controlled doses of UVB light from an artificial light source with the aim of improving mild to moderate psoriasis symptoms.

UV light slows skin cell proliferation and reduces scaling and inflammation. Side effects include itching, redness, dry skin and mild skin burns.

Excimer Laser

This is a more controlled form of light therapy, often used for mild to moderate psoriasis, treating only the area of the skin affected without harming healthy skin.

For this treatment, a controlled beam of UVB light is directed to the psoriasis plaques in an effort to control scaling and inflammation. This therapy requires fewer sessions than does traditional phototherapy because more powerful UVB light is used. Side effects can include redness and blistering.

PUVA (Psoralen Plus Ultraviolet A)

This treatment though similar adds a light-sensitizing medication called psoralen before being exposed to UVA light.

UVA light penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB light does, and psoralen makes the skin more responsive to UVA exposure.

This is a far more aggressive treatment and is often used for more severe cases of psoriasis.

The downside is that it also includes more severe side effects, including nausea, headache, burning, and itching. Long-term side effects include dry and wrinkled skin, freckles, increased sun sensitivity, and increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.