When is narrowband UVB phototherapy recommended for dyshidrotic eczema?

Dyshidrotic eczema, also called pompholyx, produces itchy fluid-filled blisters on the palms, fingers, or soles. Once blisters dry, the skin may crack, peel, and become sore. Light treatment is generally a specialist option for disease that keeps returning, covers difficult-to-treat areas, or interferes with using the hands or walking despite an agreed routine of emollients and prescribed medicines. Narrowband UVB is delivered in controlled clinic sessions, and the dose is adjusted to the response of your skin. A dermatologist first checks that the eruption is eczema and not infection, contact allergy, or another blistering condition.

During a flare, avoid bursting blisters and protect cracked skin from detergents, solvents, and prolonged wet work. Use the emollient and prescription plan provided by your clinician. Tell the phototherapy team about medicines, sun reactions, cold sores, and any new products used on your hands or feet. Attend consistently so the dose can be adjusted safely, and report tenderness, excessive redness, or blistering after a session. Keep nails short and use protective gloves suited to the task, while allowing sweaty hands to dry. Read more about Narrowband UVB Phototherapy before the first appointment.

Arrange prompt review if blisters become filled with pus, redness spreads beyond the usual rash, pain escalates, or you develop fever. Cracks that prevent normal hand use, a sudden widespread blistering eruption, or swelling around the eyes also deserve timely assessment. Stop and contact the clinic about a strong light reaction, marked burning, or blistering in treated skin. Breathing difficulty or swelling of the mouth needs emergency care.

Ask whether your diagnosis has been confirmed, what triggers should be addressed first, and why light treatment is being considered. Clarify how to protect your hands and feet, whether creams should be applied before sessions, and how a missed visit or reaction will be managed.