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Home UVB therapy

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miranac
miranac

I have widespread eczema but, like many other sufferers, note it is much better when I am out in the sun and get a light tan. I have recently invested in a small UVB unit from Skinmatters in Bristol (£600) and started to use this. It was the biggest unit I could afford and means I have to do my body in sections. I started off using it for 30 seconds then increased to find a level that suited my skin - seems to be about 2 1/2 minutes. Have used it 4 times and noticed a distinct improvement. I have read a lot around the subject and the therapy seems to be safe when self administered. I was considering paying for private UVB treatment but, although possibel to self refer, ends up costing about £1000 for a course. Given that the eczema is likely to come back the unit seemed a good investment. I know its possible to get UVB therapy on the NHS but its not a given. Clearly doesn't work for all but, if your skin like mine is better in the sun, its worth a go.

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Dancer10
    Dancer10 miranac

    Posted

    Yes uvb is free and available on the nhs. In the nhs your treatments are carefully monitored as there is a safe lifetime limit . When this limit is exceeded you are at high risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Am sorry to say that this is not a safe way to treat eczema! 
    • miranac
      miranac Dancer10

      Posted

      That's really good information so thankyou. The reason I went for this option is that other options not working, referral to dermatologist taking months and GP saying ref to UVB very unlikely where I live. Is there any information available to the public as to what this safe lifetime limit may be given that the units are on sale to the public.

      Would very much appreciate some info as I am being very sparing with the unit but effects are dramatically good.

  • Dancer10
    Dancer10 miranac

    Posted

    The best site to visit is the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD). Regarding limits, there are different protocols. St Johns which is part of Guys & St Thomas,s Hospital is usually 150 treatments or 1000 joules. I am surprised using uvb that after 4 sessions you are up to 2 and 1/2 minutes without burning. Uvb is the spectrum that burns if you were out in the sun. So am guessing this is not a pure uvb machine. Normally you would start at about 12 seconds and then gradually increase having a max or 3 treatments per week. Good luck 
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