![]() ![]() There is a reduction in itching, and the eczema slowly clears as treatment continues. Phototherapy improves the skin gradually after several weeks of regular treatments (2-3 times per week). There is debate about how phototherapy works, but it is known to reduce inflammation in the skin, thereby having an effect on the immune system. Both UVA and UVB wavelengths are used to treat eczema. Natural sunlight can help reduce symptoms in eczema for some people by reducing the inflammatory response in the skin. UV light is important for health (it helps the body to produce Vitamin D) but it is also responsible for tanning and burning the skin. Both UVA and UVB penetrate the atmosphere (90% UVA and 10% UVB). UVC has the shortest rays and is mostly absorbed by the ozone layer, so does not reach Earth. UV wavelengths are classified as UVA, UVB or UVC. In nature UV radiation is part of the electromagnetic (light) spectrum that reaches Earth from the sun. ![]() For more information about them, please see our Phototherapy factsheet. There are three types of phototherapy used in the treatment of eczema – broadband UVB, narrowband UVB, and UVA. If phototherapy is recommended, your treatment sessions will be supervised by a nurse or physiotherapist trained in phototherapy. You or your child will need to be referred to a dermatologist, who will assess your suitability. To be considered for a course of phototherapy, you or your child will need to have tried topical therapies and found that they do not control your eczema. Phototherapy (light therapy) refers to the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to treat moderate to severe eczema in adults and children.
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