A condition like psoriasis besides being uncomfortable can be a blow to self-esteem, especially when they appear on exposed areas of the body. Other skin conditions, like psoriasis, are not only unsightly, but can be extremely uncomfortable as well. If you suffer from either of these conditions and have been struggling to find an effective treatment solution, we urge you to come into Glendale Dermatology to try Narrowband UV light therapy for psoriasis and similar conditions.
What Is Narrowband UV Light Therapy?
Narrowband UV light therapy, also called phototherapy, specifically, UVB phototherapy, is a method of treating an affected area of skin with precise wavelengths to resolve imperfections without harming surrounding skin. While ultraviolet light has been used to treat skin conditions like this for over one hundred years, the specific wavelengths involved in Narrowband UVB light have been found to be extremely effective in the treatment of psoriasis and other skin conditions.
What Does Narrowband UV Light Therapy Treat?
Narrowband UVB treatment has been found to be highly effective in creating a dramatic reduction in the need for steroid creams and other skin treatments in psoriasis patients.
How Does It Work?
We begin by determining the maximum amount of light we can safely apply without reddening the skin. Once we have found the proper exposure level, we deliver that exact amount of light to the affected areas. In UVB light therapy for psoriasis cases, this inhibits DNA synthesis and destroys the immune cells that trigger the inflammatory response.
Why Is Narrowband UVB Therapy Better than Other UV Skin Treatments?
Evidence suggests that Narrowband UVB has greater efficacy and safety than other UV treatments, such as Broadband UVB or PUVA phototherapy
Why Glendale Dermatology?
Throughout Glendale and surrounding areas of Queens, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brezel is well-known for his dedication to patient care combined with proven success in treating a wide range of challenging skin conditions. He is well-versed in the use of Narrowband UV Light Therapy and will be more than happy to use it to improve your skin if it is indicated.
Who Is a Candidate for This Treatment?
Most people who struggle with psoriasis or similar skin conditions see marked improvement with this treatment. Dr. Brezel will examine and test your skin to see if you are a good candidate.
Does Narrowband UV Light Therapy Hurt?
No, it is a painless treatment. There may be some brief redness but we will take steps to minimize this and it should fade quickly.
What Is the Recovery Time? Are There Any Side Effects?
This is a fast, simple, outpatient procedure and you will be able to resume your normal daily activities immediately after your treatment. You can achieve significant results even from relatively low doses of Narrowband light, so side effects are generally not a concern.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect?
We may recommend a few treatments a week for several months. At least one study found complete psoriasis clearance for up to 80 percent of patients with a complete treatment protocol. You should start to see significant results after about 10 treatments. Most patients require between 20-40 treatments for the full effect.
What Does It Cost?
In most cases treatments are covered by your medical insurance plan. Because the number of treatments, amount of treatment and areas treated vary so widely, we will need to examine you personally to generate a realistic estimate of the costs of your Narrowband UV Light Therapy treatment.
Narrowband UV Light Therapy in Queens, NY
These skin conditions can significantly interfere with quality of life, and at Glendale Dermatology, we have the tools to turn things around. The sooner you get started, the sooner you can start to say goodbye to your psoriasis, so contact us using the form below to set up an appointment now!