A UVB phototherapy, called broadband UVB, can be used for a few small lesions, to treat widespread psoriasis, or for lesions that resist topical treatment. This type of light therapy for psoriasis is normally given in a doctor's office by using a light panel or light box. Some patients use UVB light boxes at home under a doctor's guidance.

 

A newer type of UVB used as light treatment for psoriasis is called narrowband UVB. This type of psoriasis treatment emits the part of the ultraviolet light spectrum band that is most helpful for psoriasis. Narrowband UVB treatment is superior to broadband UVB, but it is less effective than PUVA treatment (another type of treatment for psoriasis). This type of light treatment is gaining in popularity because it does help and is more convenient than PUVA.

 

UVB Treatment Course

At first, patients may require several treatments of narrowband UVB spaced close together to improve their skin. Once the skin has shown improvement, a maintenance light treatment once each week may be all that is necessary.

 

However, narrowband UVB light treatment for psoriasis is not without risk. It can cause more severe and longer lasting burns than broadband psoriasis treatment.