Psoriasis UVB Light Treatment
Psoriasis represents a complication in the body's immune system in which it targets its own healthy cells, causing the accelerated growth and dying off of skin cells. This causes dry, scaly patches of skin.
Psoriasis is common on the scalp, lower back, elbows, knees and knuckles. There is no known cure for the condition, but there are treatments, one of which is exposure to UVB light, also known as phototherapy. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, 80 percent of psoriasis sufferers find UVB therapy beneficial.
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Facts
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Sunbathing is normally discouraged because of the risk of damage to the skin. Overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet light can cause premature wrinkles and more serious conditions like cancer. On the other hand, psoriasis patients are encouraged to sunbathe because the sun's ultraviolet light causes psoriasis to clear up by slowing skin cell replication. This halting in cell production decreases the buildup of psoriasis scales.
History
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People used to go to the Dead Sea to treat their psoriasis. The sun shines there 300 days out of the year. And since the Dead Sea is 1,300 feet below sea level, there is a natural atmospheric filter that allows people to be exposed longer to the sun's rays without burning.
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Home Treatment
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The sun emits UVA light and UVB light. It is the UVB light that is used in psoriasis treatment. A home light unit can be used for UVB light treatments; however, the light used at home is not the same light used in tanning booths and salons.
UVB Light Unit
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There are a few things to look for when purchasing a UVB light unit, a child safety switch, for example. This is to prevent children from using the UVB unit. They should not use the unit unless it has been prescribed by a doctor.
Look for a unit that has a reliable and accurate timer. Safety guards over the lamps will help prevent accidental burning. Check the stability of the equipment to prevent the accidental tipping of the unit. Talk to the salesperson about the cost of replacement bulbs before you purchase a unit. Also see if there are special requirements on how and where the replacement bulbs can be purchased.
Warning
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Be careful when using UVB light treatment so that you do not get burned. Burning can cause psoriasis to flare up. Have a dermatologist check your skin regularly to look for signs of skin cancer.
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