Home Phototherapy Proven Effective in LITE Study for Psoriasis Treatment
Landmark LITE Study Confirms Home UVB Light Therapy Is as Effective as In-Office Care
The LITE Study, a multi-year, randomized clinical trial led by Dr. Joel Gelfand, has released promising preliminary results: home phototherapy is just as effective as in-office treatments for plaque and guttate psoriasis.
“Top-line results of the study showed that treatment at home with phototherapy for plaque or guttate psoriasis is clearly noninferior to office-based treatments.”
— Joel Gelfand, M.D.
Key Takeaways from the LITE Study
✅ Home Phototherapy Matches In-Office Results
The study found that 32.8% of patients using home-based phototherapy achieved clear or nearly clear skin, compared to 25.6% of in-office phototherapy users. These results highlight the clinical effectiveness of at-home UVB light therapy for psoriasis.
✅ Effective Across All Skin Types
The LITE Study was inclusive of a wide range of skin tones. It confirmed that phototherapy is safe and effective across all skin types, with the greatest efficacy observed in Fitzpatrick Skin Types V and VI—a major advancement in equitable care.
✅ Home Phototherapy Is Easy to Prescribe
Thanks to technology like the ClearLink® Controller in Guided Mode, dermatologists can confidently prescribe home-based treatments using the National Psoriasis Foundation’s standardized dosing protocol. The study demonstrated that providers can integrate home phototherapy into routine care without added complexity.
✅ Providers Retain Oversight and Control
The use of ClearLink® controller allows healthcare professionals to manage and monitor patient progress, offering peace of mind while enabling patients to treat their skin safely at home.
About the LITE Study
The Light Treatment Effectiveness (LITE) Study is one of the largest clinical trials focused on comparing home phototherapy vs. in-office phototherapy for treating plaque and guttate psoriasis. The trial was designed to reflect real-world care, using everyday clinical eligibility and dosing standards.
Study Details:
- Included patients aged 12 and older
- Diagnosed with plaque and/or guttate psoriasis
- Randomized to receive either home or office-based phototherapy
- Participants could continue other psoriasis treatments (excluding phototherapy) during the study
“Patients were motivated to learn more about home phototherapy. They feel like that’s a treatment they want better access to.”
— Dr. Joel Gelfand
Initial Findings: A Shift in Psoriasis Treatment
The LITE Study confirms what many patients and providers have hoped: home-based phototherapy is not only effective, but accessible, inclusive, and easy to manage in clinical practice. This treatment option may reduce barriers like frequent office visits and increase adherence—without compromising results.
“Adding phototherapy to the mix can really help us maintain response and achieve long-term control for patients.”
— Joel Gelfand, M.D.
Conclusion: At-Home Light Therapy Is a Proven Option for Psoriasis
The LITE Study confirms that NB-UVB home phototherapy is a safe, effective, and patient-friendly alternative to traditional office-based care. With digital tools like the ClearLink® Controller and support from clinical protocols, healthcare providers can confidently expand access to light therapy—especially for patients who face logistical or cost-related treatment challenges.
Learn More:
Read the full LITE Study report on JAMA