Top 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis and Phototherapy

1. What is phototherapy used to treat?

Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, uses controlled doses of ultraviolet (UV) light to treat skin conditions like:

The UV light helps slow the growth of affected skin cells, reducing inflammation and itch.

2. What are the side effects of UVB treatment?

UVB phototherapy is generally safe with fewer side effects than many prescription medications. Common short-term side effects include:

Redness (similar to a mild sunburn)
Itchiness or dryness
Temporary discomfort

These symptoms typically go away with moisturizers or adjusted dosing.

3. Is home phototherapy safe and effective?

Yes. Home phototherapy has been shown to be just as safe and effective as in-office treatments when used properly. It offers:

Clinical grade results
Improved convenience
High patient satisfaction

Phothera’s home devices are FDA-cleared and designed with built-in safety controls to ensure correct treatment.

4. Can phototherapy make psoriasis worse before it gets better?

It’s possible for psoriasis symptoms to temporarily flare early in treatment, especially as the skin adjusts. This is normal and often followed by gradual improvement with continued sessions.

5. Can phototherapy cause skin cancer?

When administered correctly, narrowband UVB phototherapy does not increase the risk of skin cancer. Studies have shown that UVB, unlike tanning bed UVA light, is safe when used under medical guidance or with prescribed home devices.

6. Is it okay to use a tanning bed for psoriasis treatment?

No. Tanning beds primarily use UVA light, which is not effective in treating psoriasis and comes with a higher risk of skin cancer. Medical phototherapy devices use narrowband UVB light, which is clinically proven and much safer.

7. How long does it take for phototherapy to work?

Most patients begin to see results after about 20 treatments, done 2–3 times per week. Sessions start short—just seconds long—and gradually increase to a few minutes based on your skin’s response.

8. Does psoriasis get worse with age?

Not necessarily. While psoriasis itself doesn’t automatically worsen with age, stress, immune changes, or other health conditions can cause flare-ups. With good treatment and lifestyle management, many people keep their psoriasis well controlled long-term.

9. How much does phototherapy cost?

Compared to biologics or long-term topical medications, home phototherapy can be a cost-effective option:

Topical meds: $500+ per tube
Biologics: $20,000+ per year
Home device (one-time purchase): often covered by insurance and can save hundreds in travel and copays over time

10. Are there foods that make psoriasis worse?

While diet alone won’t cause or cure psoriasis, some people report flare-ups after eating:

Red meat and full-fat dairy (high in arachidonic acid)
Processed/junk foods with trans fats
Alcohol

Consider working with a nutritionist or your healthcare provider to identify dietary triggers.

Learn More About Safe, At-Home Phototherapy

At Phothera, we provide clinically backed home phototherapy devices that are easy to use and designed for safety. If you’re considering light therapy to manage your psoriasis, our team can help you determine if it’s the right fit.