How much do you know about light therapy?

Recently, many people in the outpatient clinic have asked, what is the role of light therapy? Is light therapy safe? Does phototherapy emit radiation? Wait, on these issues, the editor today will tell you about the magic of popular science light therapy.

1.What is phototherapy?

Clinically, phototherapy is an effective means of using light to treat skin diseases. At present, according to the range of light waves, light therapy mainly includes ultraviolet therapy, infrared therapy, and visible light therapy.

2.What is the mechanism of phototherapy? Is light therapy safe?

 At present, the most used clinically is ultraviolet phototherapy. Ultraviolet light is invisible light with a wavelength of 180-400 nm outside of violet light. Ultraviolet rays are divided into long wave, medium wave and short wave. Among them, the ultraviolet rays in the 311nm and 308nm bands have a strong therapeutic effect. They can directly act on the epidermis and superficial dermis of the skin, stimulate the defense function of tissues against diseases, and strengthen the body. Immune function, promoting pigment production and desensitization. Phototherapy can be used for pregnant women, which can effectively reduce oral and external drugs. It is a conventional, efficient and safe treatment method used in modern dermatology.

3. What are the indications for UV phototherapy?

       Ultraviolet phototherapy has been widely used clinically in the treatment of various skin diseases such as psoriasis, vitiligo, pityriasis rosea, eczema, atopic dermatitis, pruritus, and scleroderma.

    4. Are there any contraindications to phototherapy?

    Phototherapy is not suitable for the following groups: patients with diseases that are aggravated by ultraviolet radiation: such as lupus erythematosus, xeroderma pigmentosum, etc.; patients who are taking photosensitivity drugs.

    5. What precautions should be taken before and after phototherapy?

    a. It is best to cleanse and moisturize the skin the night before or the morning of the phototherapy.

    b. During phototherapy: the illuminated parts should be fully exposed, goggles should be worn, and photosensitive drugs, food, skin care products, etc. should be avoided during treatment.

    c. Avoid excessive sun exposure on the day after phototherapy, and use sunscreen if necessary. Dry skin may occur after phototherapy, so moisturizing cream should be used.