Light box therapy (also called narrow band UVB phototherapy) uses a specific, safe wavelength of ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation, calm overactive immune cells in the skin, and relieve symptoms such as  itchiness, scaling and plaques in conditions like eczema, psoriasis, pruritus and vitiligo.

Patients who have not gotten sufficient relief from topical treatments like steroid creams and ointments, especially when creams are difficult to use or less effective on large areas, hands, or feet. Also for moderate-to-severe skin disease that significantly affects quality of life – especially mobility, sleep, or function. Medical evaluation will determine suitability (skin type, medical history, any photosensitizing medications, etc.) for treatment.

The standard care protocol is two to three (2-3) times per week for 12 weeks. Consistency is important to see optimal results. After the initial course, maintenance or fewer sessions may be needed depending on how the skin responds.

Nearly all skin areas are treatable. We have full-body light boxes for larger regions, and special hand-units and foot-units designed for hands and feet which often respond poorly to creams.

Many patients begin to notice improvements (reduced itch, less redness, scaling) within the first few weeks. More substantial clearing often takes several weeks into the full 12-week course.

Yes, when performed under medical supervision, narrow band UVB is considered quite safe. But there are possible side effects including:

• Mild redness, dryness, or “sunburn-like” sensations after treatment.
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
• Long-term risks (though rare) may include premature skin aging or increased skin cancer risk, especially if safety protocols are not followed.

Protective measures (eye protection, avoiding extra UV exposure, following treatment plan) are used to minimize risks.

Absolutely. Topicals (emollients, moisturizers) are encouraged to support the skin barrier. Steroidal creams or anti-inflammatory topicals may be used before, during, or after the UVB therapy as advised, though sometimes the potency or frequency may be reduced as light therapy begins to work.

Yes. Hands and feet are challenging areas for creams due to thickness of skin and movement, but we have equipment (hand and foot units) designed specifically to treat these areas effectively with UVB light.

Sessions are typically short (starting with very brief exposure – seconds to a few minutes) and adjusted based on skin type and response. Discomfort is usually mild (warmth, slight redness) and most people tolerate it well.

Before treatment: remove any lotions, oils, perfumes on the treatment area; the medical team will help you with protective eye gear and facial protection. The medical team will give you guidelines about photosensitizing medications. After treatment: moisturize well; avoid sun exposure or tanning beds; protect skin with sunscreen or clothing; follow any maintenance / aftercare advice.

Insurance coverage varies but most plans cover this service if recommended by the dermatologist. Some plans cover phototherapy as a medically necessary treatment for moderate-to-severe skin disorders. We will manage the pre-authorization process and check your insurance benefits or provide estimates. 

Contact us for a consultation — we will evaluate your condition, medical history, and determine if UVB light therapy is appropriate. If so, we’ll set up a treatment plan (frequency, duration), orient you on what to expect, and schedule your sessions.