Phototherapy

Phototherapy is the therapeutic use of ultraviolet light to improve conditions and diseases of the skin. Ultraviolet radiation consists of UVA, UVB, and UVC light.

UVB (ultraviolet B light) is the most common form of phototherapy and is used to treat various skin diseases and conditions, including psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema and itching.

Other less common skin conditions can also benefit including granuloma annulare, pityriasis rosea, lichen planus, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides) and pityriasis lichenoides (PLEVA or PLC). This form of phototherapy also increases vitamin D levels.

You will be exposed to this high-energy UV light for a certain length of time depending on a variety of factors. This treatment can effectively control, improve or maintain clearance of improved skin over extended periods of time, and in some cases clear your skin condition.

Each condition and patient will vary in the number of treatments needed per week and the time it will take to reach clearing. Most patients initially require 3 treatments each week to clear their lesions.

Typically, treatments start with only a few seconds of light exposure and increase gradually as determined by our staff. It may take 15-25 treatments (e.g. 1-3 months) or longer to improve your skin disease. Not all patients will clear completely. Many patients go into remission and may then stop treatments.

The expected benefits of phototherapy are:

(1) Improvement of existing lesions;
(2) Reduction/prevention of new lesions;
(3) Remission – in many cases phototherapy has resulted in a near total clearing of the disease process. The duration of this remission varies with each patient. Maintenance therapy may be required.

Note that treatments are completely covered (free) by OHIP. Only UV-protective eye goggles require purchasing. Since UV-light can cause the skin to become slightly more dry, it is a good idea to apply a moisturizer cream immediately after your treatment or later that day. If you feel that your skin is sensitive or red from your last treatment (e.g. similar to a sunburn), skip your next treatment session or two to allow your skin to calm, or check-in with our nurse or doctor.

Phototherapy Schedule:

Monday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM

*Please be aware that the schedule is subject to change. Any changes or exceptions will be posted in the light room in advance.