Staying on Track with Phototherapy During the Summer Months
Summer sunshine can bring relief for many, but for patients undergoing phototherapy, the season also introduces unique challenges. From natural UV exposure to skincare routines, it’s important to know how to safely manage your treatment so you can maintain results and avoid setbacks.
Here’s what you should know about phototherapy during the warmer months:
☀️ Sunlight Is Not a Substitute for Phototherapy
While natural sunlight contains UVB rays similar to those used in phototherapy, it’s inconsistent, uncontrolled, and carries long-term risks such as sunburn and increased skin cancer risk. Phototherapy, on the other hand, delivers a precise, targeted dose of UVB under medical supervision—making it both effective and safe for managing chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema.
📉 Photoadaptation Can Impact Your Dosage
Spending time in the sun increases your skin’s tolerance to UV light, a process called photoadaptation. While this might sound like a good thing, it can actually reduce the effectiveness of your phototherapy dose—or, if not adjusted properly, increase your risk of overexposure. If you’re spending more time outdoors this summer, let your doctor know so they can adjust your treatment plan as needed.
⛱️ Summer Skincare Do’s and Don’ts
Your skin needs a little extra attention during the summer months—especially if you’re undergoing light-based treatment. Here are some simple guidelines to help protect your skin and make your treatments more effective:
✅ DO:
- Use sunscreen—but remove it before treatment. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, but always cleanse sunscreen from your skin before phototherapy sessions.
- Moisturize after treatment. Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers after your session or on off-days to soothe dryness and support skin barrier health.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin supple and more receptive to treatment.
- Wear protective clothing. Long sleeves, wide-brim hats, and lightweight layers help protect your skin without overheating.
- Apply mineral oil to plaques (if directed). This can help improve UV light penetration in thickened skin.
❌ DON’T:
- Apply lotion before treatment. Many lotions contain ingredients that block or absorb UV rays, reducing treatment efficacy.
- Use citrus-based or essential oil products. Ingredients like lime, lemon, or orange oil can make your skin more sensitive to light and increase the risk of irritation.
- Skip treatments due to “summer improvement.” Even if your skin looks better, it’s important to follow your prescribed schedule. Pausing prematurely can result in flare-ups later.
👕 Clothing Tips for Hot Weather
What you wear can also impact your comfort and your skin health:
- Choose cotton or breathable fabrics to avoid trapping heat and irritating sensitive skin.
- Stick with fragrance-free laundry products to minimize flare-ups.
- Wear light-colored clothing to reduce heat absorption and camouflage flakes from dry skin.
- Avoid tight-fitting outfits that rub or trap sweat near inflamed areas.
📅 Staying Consistent Year-Round
It’s not uncommon for patients to feel better in summer—and assume they no longer need treatment. But remission isn’t the same as recovery. Your provider may recommend dose adjustments to account for seasonal changes, but consistency is key to long-term control.
Questions about managing phototherapy in the summer? Talk to your provider to review your treatment schedule and ensure you’re on track.