handheld UVB light to treat Psoriasis effective ?
Discussion
Have a search here: http://www.psoriasis-help.org.uk/forum/index.php
When I worked in the NHS we used to have a sunbed (effectively) for psoriasis treatment. IIRC (it's been a while) treatments would last 15-20 minutes so unless you only have a few small areas I can't see you using a handheld lamp for long enough to help.
As it was the UV bed was moderately effective but the effects didn't last much beyond the 6 sessions.
As it was the UV bed was moderately effective but the effects didn't last much beyond the 6 sessions.
mechsympathy said:
When I worked in the NHS we used to have a sunbed (effectively) for psoriasis treatment. IIRC (it's been a while) treatments would last 15-20 minutes so unless you only have a few small areas I can't see you using a handheld lamp for long enough to help.
As it was the UV bed was moderately effective but the effects didn't last much beyond the 6 sessions.
The NHS provides 2 different types of UV treatment. PUVA & UVB(TL01). PUVA requires the use of Psoralen (hence the P in PUVA) which can be taken as either a tablet, or applied in a bath. As it was the UV bed was moderately effective but the effects didn't last much beyond the 6 sessions.
Narrow Band UVB (TL01) uses a different frequency of light than UVA and as PUVA usually takes a series of sessions over 6 weeks. Treatment times will vary depending on skin type and reaction to the treatment. Remission can last from days to in some cases a couple of years.
The small handheld devices can (and I emphasise can) be useful for small patches. You are of course exposing your skin to concentrated UV light which can cause skin cancer.
Psoriasis is notoriously difficult to treat as some regimes work for some and not others.
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