When talking about UVA therapy, it helps to start with a clear definition. UVA therapy, the use of long‑wavelength ultraviolet A light to treat skin disorders. Also known as UVA phototherapy, it works by penetrating deeper skin layers than UVB.
One of the most common conditions tackled with UVA light is psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disease that causes red, scaly patches. The therapy often pairs with psoralen, a photosensitizing drug that makes skin more responsive to UVA; together they form the PUVA regimen. This connection means UVA therapy encompasses psoriasis management, while phototherapy requires psoralen to boost effectiveness.
Understanding UVA therapy means looking at a few related ideas. First, phototherapy is the broader umbrella that includes both UVB and UVA treatments, each with different penetration depths and clinical uses. Second, the response to UVA can vary with skin of color, darker pigmentation that may affect light absorption and risk of hyperpigmentation. Finally, safety hinges on dosage control; excessive exposure raises the risk of skin aging and cancer, so clinicians rely on measured treatment sessions.
These relationships shape how practitioners choose UVA therapy. For patients with widespread plaque psoriasis, PUVA often offers faster clearing than UVB alone. For those with vitiligo or atopic dermatitis, UVA can stimulate melanocyte activity and reduce inflammation. In each case, the therapy demands careful monitoring of cumulative UVA dose, especially for individuals with a history of skin cancer or photosensitivity.
Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into the specifics: from fall‑risk medications that may affect balance during treatment visits, to how efavirenz influences blood pressure in patients also receiving phototherapy, and even practical tips on using ibuprofen for shingles pain after UVA sessions. Whether you’re a patient curious about the safety of PUVA or a clinician looking for up‑to‑date management strategies, the posts ahead cover the breadth of topics that intersect with UVA therapy. Explore the insights, compare alternatives, and get the actionable advice you need to make informed decisions about your skin health.
Explore how methoxsalen interacts with UVA to influence collagen production, the science behind its dual effects, safety tips, and future non‑UV alternatives.
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