Why Home Phototherapy Can Be a Better Option for Managing Skin Conditions
For individuals managing chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or vitiligo, phototherapy is a clinically proven treatment that uses specific wavelengths of UV light to reduce inflammation and improve skin appearance. Traditionally delivered in clinical settings, phototherapy is now increasingly available for use at home—offering patients more flexibility, comfort, and consistency.
In this article, we’ll explore why home phototherapy can be a better option than in-office treatment and how it empowers patients to take control of their care.
What Is Phototherapy?
Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, involves exposing the skin to narrowband UVB light, which slows down the overproduction of skin cells, reduces inflammation, and helps relieve symptoms of conditions like:
- Psoriasis
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Vitiligo
- Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
It is typically administered 2–3 times per week over several weeks or months, with improvements often seen after 15–20 sessions.
Why Choose Home Phototherapy?
While clinic-based phototherapy remains an excellent option, many patients and healthcare providers are discovering that home phototherapy offers several unique advantages:
1. Convenience & Flexibility
Home phototherapy eliminates the need for multiple weekly trips to the dermatologist’s office. Patients can schedule treatments around their lifestyle—whether that’s early in the morning, after work, or on the weekend.
2. Improved Treatment Adherence
Frequent clinic visits can be difficult for patients with busy schedules, mobility issues, or limited access to dermatology offices. As a result, missed appointments can disrupt treatment progress.
With a home phototherapy device, patients are more likely to stick to their prescribed treatment plan, leading to better outcomes over time.
3. Cost Savings Over Time
While the initial investment in a home phototherapy device may seem significant, it can lead to long-term cost savings compared to:
- Repeated copays
- Gas and parking expenses
- Missed work or childcare costs
Over months or years, home devices can be more affordable than continuous in-office treatment.
4. Comparable Safety & Effectiveness
When prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider, home phototherapy is just as safe and effective as treatment administered in a clinical setting.
Clinical studies show that patients using home phototherapy:
- Experience similar clearance rates
- Report high satisfaction
- Feel more empowered in managing their care
Modern devices—like the Phothera 100 or 100XL—include features such as dose control, safety locks, and provider access codes to ensure treatments are administered safely.
5. Privacy & Comfort
Some patients feel self-conscious about receiving phototherapy in a public or medical setting. At home, they can treat affected areas with greater privacy, and without the time pressures of a clinical visit.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Home Phototherapy?
Home phototherapy is ideal for patients who:
- Have moderate to severe skin conditions requiring regular treatment
- Have already responded well to in-office UVB phototherapy
- Prefer a private and flexible treatment setting
- Live far from a phototherapy center or have limited transportation options
Providers should ensure the patient is educated on device use and follow-up care to ensure safety and efficacy.
Phothera: Leading the Way in Home Phototherapy
At Phothera, we offer a full line of FDA-cleared home phototherapy devices tailored to meet patient and provider needs. From compact handheld options to full-body panels, our devices are:
- Easy to use
- Prescription-based for safety
- Supported with manuals, guides, and training materials
- Designed for treatment success from home
Get Started with Home Phototherapy
Interested in learning more about home phototherapy for psoriasis, eczema, or vitiligo?
Learn more about Phothera Home Phototherapy.
Or talk to your healthcare provider about prescribing a Phothera home device.
TLDR:
- Home phototherapy offers flexibility, privacy, and long-term cost savings
- Patients can experience similar results to in-office care with proper supervision
- Phothera provides safe, effective, and easy-to-use devices for treating skin conditions from home