Lichen planus and ultraviolet light therapy

Phototherapy exposes selected skin to a controlled medical dose of ultraviolet light. It is considered mainly for extensive or persistent skin disease, not as a do-it-yourself sun treatment. The clinician chooses the light type and starting dose according to skin response and medical history.

Treatment usually requires repeated clinic visits and gradual adjustment. The treated skin may become warm, pink, dry, or irritated. Eye protection is used when needed, and the team checks for excessive redness or other reactions before changing the dose.

Tell the dermatologist about medicines, supplements, previous light reactions, skin cancers, lupus or other light-sensitive conditions, and pregnancy if relevant. Bring a list of creams and avoid applying unapproved products before a session.

Attend the schedule recommended by the clinic and protect untreated skin as instructed. Do not add outdoor tanning or sun exposure to the plan. Report burning, blistering, severe itch, new eye symptoms, or a reaction that lasts beyond the expected period. Topical treatment may still be used for selected areas.

Contact the phototherapy team promptly after marked redness, blistering, severe pain, or swelling. Seek urgent care for eye pain or vision change, breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or widespread blistering. Mouth, scalp, nail, or genital symptoms may require a different treatment plan.

Ask why phototherapy is being suggested, which light type will be used, how often visits are expected, and how the response will be monitored. Ask which medicines increase light sensitivity, how to protect your eyes and uninvolved skin, and what reaction should pause treatment.