What to expect from narrowband UVB phototherapy for psoriasis

A clinician checks the areas affected by psoriasis and sets an exposure suited to your skin and treatment history. You may stand in a light cabinet or have a smaller device aimed at selected plaques. Protective eyewear is used, and areas not being treated may be covered. The treated skin can look mildly pink or feel warm afterward. Improvement is assessed over the treatment course rather than after one visit; plaques may become less raised, less scaly, or less itchy as inflammation settles.

Attend the scheduled sessions consistently and tell the clinic about new medicines, creams, supplements, or recent sun exposure because they can change light sensitivity. Follow the instructions about washing, moisturising, and covering sensitive areas. Do not add tanning sessions or deliberate sun exposure to the plan. Keep a note of redness, tenderness, blistering, or changes in itch so the team can adjust the next exposure. Read more about [Narrowband UVB Phototherapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/narrowband-uvb-phototherapy/) and [Psoriasis](/conditions/psoriasis/).

Contact the clinic promptly if redness is painful, lasts longer than expected, or progresses to blistering, marked swelling, or peeling. Seek urgent medical help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, faintness, or a widespread reaction after treatment. A sudden severe flare, fever, or painful joints also deserves prompt assessment rather than waiting for the next light session.

Ask which psoriasis areas will be treated, how you should protect uninvolved skin, what reaction is expected after each session, and how medicines or home creams fit with the plan. Clarify what to do if you miss a visit and how progress will be reviewed.