Phototherapy has become one of the most trusted and effective tools in dermatology for managing chronic inflammatory and pigmentary skin diseases. At Modern Dermatology in Annapolis, Maryland, Dr. Lane Neidig, a board-certified dermatologist, uses advanced phototherapy systems to safely and precisely target conditions that impact quality of life, appearance, and long-term skin health. Because phototherapy delivers controlled ultraviolet (UV) light directly to diseased skin, it offers a level of precision and consistency that topical treatments and natural sunlight cannot achieve. For many patients, it becomes a core part of an effective long-term treatment strategy.
How does phototherapy work?
Phototherapy works by influencing immune pathways in the skin. Many dermatologic diseases occur when immune cells release signals that trigger inflammation, increase skin cell turnover, or destroy pigment-producing cells. Controlled UV light reduces this overactivity, allowing the skin to gradually return to a healthier, calmer state. By slowing inflammatory responses and normalizing cell growth, phototherapy can improve redness, scaling, itching, and discoloration. These improvements often appear in a gradual, sustained pattern, with results developing over several weeks of consistent treatment.
- One of the most common applications of phototherapy is psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disease known for thick, scaly plaques that often resist topical treatments alone. Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) phototherapy is particularly effective for psoriasis because it uses a highly specific wavelength that slows the rapid turnover of skin cells and reduces inflammation. Many patients achieve smoother, less irritated skin and experience longer periods of remission. For stubborn plaques that do not respond evenly across the body, targeted excimer light can deliver concentrated treatment only to resistant areas, often speeding improvement.
- Phototherapy is also highly beneficial for atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema. Eczema flares are driven by immune dysregulation that leads to inflammation, itching, and fragile skin. Phototherapy helps stabilize the immune response and strengthen the skin barrier, reducing the frequency and intensity of flare-ups. This is especially valuable for patients who wish to reduce their reliance on topical steroids or who struggle with widespread eczema that is difficult to control with creams alone. NB-UVB is the preferred modality for most eczema patients due to its balance of effectiveness and low risk.
- For patients with vitiligo, a condition in which melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) are destroyed, phototherapy plays a central role in encouraging repigmentation. Both NB-UVB and excimer light stimulate melanocyte migration and activation, helping pigment gradually return to affected areas. Hands, feet, and facial patches often respond particularly well with consistent treatment. Phototherapy is one of the few treatments proven to directly influence pigment restoration without systemic medication.
- Another important application is the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), including early-stage mycosis fungoides. Phototherapy can slow or suppress the abnormal lymphocytes that accumulate in the skin, reducing patches and plaques. NB-UVB or PUVA may be used depending on the stage and thickness of the lesions. While CTCL requires careful monitoring, phototherapy offers a powerful non-systemic option that can significantly improve skin appearance and patient comfort.
- Chronic itching (pruritus) that does not respond to moisturizers or topical therapies often improves with phototherapy. Itching may be caused by inflammation, nerve dysregulation, or chronic skin changes; UV light helps quiet these pathways, reducing the urge to scratch and allowing the skin to heal. For patients who have suffered for months or years with persistent itching, phototherapy can offer meaningful relief.
- Other conditions commonly treated with phototherapy include lichen planus, seborrheic dermatitis, chronic hives, granuloma annulare, and various autoimmune or inflammatory rashes. Its versatility makes it a key tool in dermatologic care, especially for patients seeking alternatives to systemic medications.
How is the treatment performed?
Phototherapy at Modern Dermatology is delivered in a controlled, physician-supervised environment. Treatment plans are individualized, starting with low exposure times and gradually increasing as the skin adapts.
Patients stand in a full-body light booth or receive targeted treatment with a handheld device, depending on the condition being addressed. Sessions are brief—often just seconds to minutes—and typically scheduled two to three times per week. Most patients begin to notice improvement after several weeks, with the best results occurring through consistent, uninterrupted therapy.
What are the risks of phototherapy?
As with any medical treatment, phototherapy carries certain risks. The most common short-term effects include temporary redness, dryness, or mild sunburn-like irritation if the dose exceeds what the skin can tolerate. Protective eyewear is always required, and sensitive areas may be shielded. Long-term risks depend on the type of phototherapy used and cumulative exposure, though narrowband UVB has a strong safety record and is considered appropriate for ongoing use under dermatologic supervision.
For the right patient, phototherapy provides safe, predictable, and meaningful improvement with minimal downtime. Its ability to treat widespread disease, reduce reliance on medications, and improve overall skin function makes it a core component of comprehensive dermatologic care.
If you are living with psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, or another chronic skin condition, phototherapy may offer the steady, effective improvement you need. To learn whether this treatment is appropriate for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lane Neidig at Modern Dermatology in Annapolis, Maryland, and begin a personalized treatment plan designed to restore your skin’s health and comfort.