What Is UVB Phototherapy Used To Treat?

Ultraviolet B light (UVB) is present in natural sunlight and is the most common form of phototherapy used to treat various skin diseases including psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis and other skin disorders. Our office offers two types of UVB phototherapy, Narrowband and Excimer Laser.

Narrowband UVB Phototherapy (treating generalized body skin diseases)

“Narrowband” refers to the specific narrow wavelength range of UVB light that has proven to be the most beneficial component of natural sunlight in treating generalized (whole body) skin conditions.

Conditions treated: Psoriasis, Generalized Pruritus, Atopic Dermatitis

Pharos Ex-308 Excimer Laser (ideal for treating localized skin diseases)

Dr. William Wong Sr. is the only Dermatologist in Hawaii to offer the Excimer Laser, which creates a concentrated, yet painless beam of light, delivered through a handpiece that targets the affected tissue. By specifically targeting the diseased skin, the laser delivers high-dose treatment that promotes faster clearing and longer remission. Most sessions last about 5-10 minutes and require 1-2 treatments a week for up to 10 treatments to improve psoriasis and 15 or more treatments to improve vitiligo.

Conditions treated: Psoriasis, Eczema, Vitiligo

BLU-U® Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

What is an actinic keratosis? (Precancerous skin growths)

Actinic keratosis (AK) affects more than 10 million Americans. These precancerous growths on the skin are more common among fair-skinned people who has had accumulated exposure to the sun over a long period of time. They are characterized by red, pink or grey colored lesions with rough or dry textures that appear on sun-exposed areas of the scalp, face, arms and back of the hands. Actinic keratosis can develop into malignant cells, typically squamous cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer. That's why treatment is important!

What is BLU-U PDT?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a new, light-based treatment that uses a photosensitizing drug, Levulan (aminolevulinic acid), which becomes activated by blue light exposure.The Levulan solution is unique because it is only absorbed by pre-cancerous cells. It is the selectivity of this solution with the blue light activation that allows quick success in treating precancerous lesions.

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects include redness, swelling, scaling/crusting, mild itching and stinging and “mild burning sensation” during the first few minutes during treatment.

What precautions should be taken?

After treatment, patients must avoid sunlight or bright indoor light for at least 2 days. Exposure may result in a stinging and/or burning sensation and may cause redness or swelling of the lesions. Regular sunscreens will not protect against these reactions.

BLU-U for ACNE:

Blue light is unique in which it kills the bacteria P. acnes, which causes acne infection. Sitting in front of the “U-shaped” Panel for up to 17 minutes will destroy many of these diseases causing bacteria. There is no pain, swelling or discomfort during or after each session.

The optimal treatment frequency is 2x a week; for up to 8 weeks (2 months). Repeat treatments courses can be repeated as needed. Unfortunately, this procedure is NOT covered by insurance up to now. Therefore, self payment is as follows:

• One Blu-U treatment per week is $30.00/treatment
• Two Blu-U treatments per week is $20.00/treatment

Why choose BLU-U PDT Therapy?

• Blu-U PDT is initiated and completed in an in-office setting
• Treatment is administered by a qualified healthcare professional, supervised by Physician.
• No oral antibiotic or pills to take
• Minimal topical medications needed.
• Low downtime, safe and not painful.

To see if phototherapy is the right option for you, Call Hawaii Dermatology & Surgery Inc. in Aiea at (808) 487-7938 Today!