Ultra Violet Light to Treat Psorisis

Psorisis sufferers may benefit from UVB light, one of the forms of Ultra Violet light that comes from the sun. There are three forms: UVA, UVB and UVC. The UV light which does reach us is mainly long wave UVA, with some intermediate wavelength UVB, and it is the UVB rays which may help psoriasis. In psorisis, this means that the cells do not multiply so rapidly and behave more like normal skin. Too much UVB however is not a good thing either because it burns. You do need to take care even if you do find that sunshine helps your skin. Because ultra violet light is so effective for so many people with psorisis doctors use it in various artificial forms.

UVB contains a wide range of wavelengths and is used to treat guttate psorisis or plaque psorisis, which is resistant to topical treatments. In the past few years a more defined form of UVB has been developed, known as 'narrow band', and this is proving effective. The aim is to clear the skin and this can take up to 30 treatments over a period of weeks. This treatment is administered in hospital under controlled conditions using trained staff.

There are risks associated with UV radiation. It can cause skin damage and eventually skin cancer, and treatments therefore have to be rationed. Doctors will not put patients at unnecessary risk. Care should be taken with the number of treatments over one year and indeed over a lifetime. This will vary from person to person depending on skin type and total dose administered. It is most important to be guided by your doctor.