UVB: Your Top Questions Answered

UVB is a type of phototherapy which uses a specific band of ultraviolet B light to treat various skin conditions. As it slows the growth of affected skin cells and reduces inflammation. UVB therapy is commonly used to treat:

UVB is entirely safe when administered correctly under medical supervision. It has fewer long-term risks than PUVA therapy (which uses UVA light plus a drug). However, overexposure can cause sunburn-like effects and long-term skin damage.

Short-term side effects may include:

Long-term risks (with excessive or prolonged use) include:

It’s generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable if:

Everyone is different and how an individual’s skin reacts can vary. Typically, most treatment schedules involve 1 – 3 sessions per week for several weeks, up to a couple of months, depending on the condition severity. Treatment times can start from as little as 30 seconds, with the maximum duration being 4 minutes – though this is achieved gradually over the course of treatment. Some clients experience relief after the first session or two, though most notice improvement within the first 2 – 4 weeks, but it often takes 4 – 12 weeks to see significant progress.

The treatment is painless. However, overexposure or sensitivity can cause mild redness or sunburn-like discomfort. Though we monitor session times carefully to avoid this.

It depends on the condition and the other treatment, but more often than not, yes. UVB is sometimes combined with topical treatments (like steroids) or systemic medications. Any long-term medications shouldn’t interfere with UVB treatment, though some antibiotics and photosensitising medications may increase the risk of burning. We advise clarifying this with your GP prior to beginning treatment.

Single UVB session – £20
Theralight 360 + UVB – £60
10x UVB Sessions – £150

Please avoid applying any lotions, creams, oils, or sprays for at least 1 hour before and after your UVB treatment, as they may interfere with light absorption and affect results. Before treatment, please remove all jewellery to ensure even exposure and prevent patchy pigmentation. We will provide protective goggles to shield your eyes during the session. For the therapy to be effective, your skin must be exposed to the UVB light. However, we recommend that you keep your underwear on to protect sensitive areas in case of any adverse skin reactions. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and put back on, as the entire undressing and redressing process typically takes less than 5 minutes.

When you arrive, we will briefly review your skin concerns and assess the severity of your condition. Based on this assessment, we’ll assign your treatment time and guide you through operating the machine. This is a good opportunity to ask any final questions before starting your session. The treatment is performed in a fully private, lockable room to ensure your comfort and modesty. After the session, we’ll check in on how you’re feeling and schedule your next treatment(s) as appropriate.