Eczema Alternative Treatment Using Phototherapy

Phototherapy is one of the many options as an eczema alternative treatment that you may wish to pursue. However, before making a decision, you should be aware that there can be both benefits and risks to this procedure.

This eczema alternative treatment is based on sunlight therapy, which has been used for centuries to treat numerous types of skin diseases. There is more than one type of phototherapy available. Generally speaking, through this therapy, a narrow band of UV light is used to replicate the good properties that are found within natural sunlight. It is also applied in small dosages, so that your eczema skin is not irritated.

Benefits of phototherapy can vary from individual to individual. In one German study, phototherapy has been found to be effective in 80% for cases of severe atopic dermatitis. Phototherapy is also excellent in preventing bacterial infections, a common occurrence of those with atopic dermatitis. It may also significantly reduce your reliance on topical corticosteroids.

You will need a prescription for this form of eczema alternative treatment by your dermatologist. He will need to closely examine your skin. It is very important that you closely follow his recommendations. You should never start a phototherapy treatment on your own though. This is because this treatment is not right for every skin condition. Furthermore, your dermatologist will carefully monitor the amount of UV light that is used to ensure that it meets your needs and does not complicate your skin condition even further. Things such as skin type, age, skin condition and several other factors also need to be taken into consideration. This is why you should never try to treat yourself.

A phototherapy eczema alternative treatment is offered in many dermatology clinics. You would simply enter into a box-like structure that is filled with fluorescent light tubes. You will also need to wear protective goggles when inside this box. The treatment will only last between a few seconds and a few minutes. Even though this time may seem very short to you, the healing process can be noticeable in just a few days.

Of course, you may find it inconvenient to go to visit your dermatologist so often. Or due to economic reasons, you may prefer to purchase a phototherapy unit for use at home. These units are no bigger than a shower stall and are usually covered by your health insurance. They are quite similar to tanning booths, only these units give off special UV rays that are far different from tanning booths.

You should know that this eczema alternative treatment is not all that safe, either. It carries with it some risks. While phototherapy can significantly improve the condition of your skin and even completely clear atopic dermatitis, the UV light used can increase your chance to getting skin cancer or prematurely age your skin. Do also note that this form of treatment is not recommended for all cases of skin diseases. Your dermatologist will not recommend that you undergo this treatment if you develop a sun induced allergic reaction. Also, he will not prescribe this treatment to you if it can worsen your itchy skin condition.