Eczema, a common and non-contagious skin condition, appears as dry and itchy patches that can flare up when exposed to irritants or allergens. It is important to manage these symptoms to prevent the condition from worsening. Using UVB lamps for eczema treatment is a recognised approach that employs ultraviolet B light to diminish symptoms effectively. It safely reduces eczema symptoms and is especially beneficial for sensitive areas of the skin.
In this blog, we will explore what causes eczema flare-ups and how to use UVB light therapy effectively, providing detailed guides and practical tips.
Common Causes of Eczema Flare-Ups
Eczema can affect anyone at any age, often starting in childhood and persisting into adulthood. People with a family history of eczema may be more at risk. Here are some factors to consider:
- Environmental Factors
Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by the environment to manage these triggers effectively.
- Dietary Allergens
Common food allergies include cows’ milk, eggs, peanuts, soya, and wheat. These allergies can cause adverse reactions and should be taken seriously to prevent health issues.
- Stress
Your mental health could affect the health of your skin, which can cause a flare-up of eczema symptoms. If you have high levels of stress, anxiety or depression, you may have more frequent flare-ups of eczema symptoms.
- Skincare Products
Choosing the right skincare products is essential. To reduce the risk of irritation, avoid harsh products and opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options.
- Clothing and Fabrics
Materials like wool and synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon can irritate the skin and should be avoided. Opt for soft, breathable materials like cotton to help keep the skin calm.
How UVB Light Therapy can help to prevent Eczema flare-up
UVB light therapy is an effective and promising treatment for eczema, which uses a specific portion of natural sunlight—UVB rays—to reduce symptoms. This method involves controlled exposure to UVB light and reduces the rapid growth of skin cells and inflammation. It also boosts vitamin D levels, which are crucial for healthy skin.
Atopic eczema treatment proves essential for the long-term management of eczema by controlling the immune system response and significantly reducing redness and itching. Home-based UVB therapy is convenient, and with the right equipment, it provides consistent treatment. This reduces the frequency and severity of flare-ups. UVB therapy has few side effects and improves skin health. Treat eczema with this method for optimal results. This approach gives eczema sufferers great relief and a better life.
Benefits of UVB light therapy
UVB light therapy offers a range of benefits for managing eczema, making it a critical component of treatment strategies. The primary advantages include reducing inflammation, slowing down rapid skin cell growth, and increasing Vitamin D production.
Reduces inflammation: UVB light helps reduce the number of T-cell lymphocytes in the skin. These cells play a major role in the inflammatory processes that aggravate eczema, so reducing their numbers reduces inflammation and relieves symptoms.
Slows down rapid skin cell growth: One hallmark of eczema is the rapid growth of skin cells, which can lead to thick, scaly patches. UVB light therapy effectively slows this growth, helping to smooth the skin and reduce scaling.
Increases Vitamin D Production: Exposure to UVB light increases vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Vitamin D is important for skin health, enhancing its barrier function and resilience against irritation and infection.
How To Use UVB Light Therapy at Home
UVB lamps for eczema are doctor-approved and proven to be the most effective treatment for this specific condition. UVB light therapy at home is not only the most comfortable way to heal your skin.
Safety Considerations
Light therapy for eczema is not only effective but also safe, allowing consistent management of the condition. Here are safety considerations for using UVB light therapy at home, designed to ensure your peace of mind and the safety of your skin:
Consult a Healthcare Provider: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting UVB light therapy to ensure it is tailored to your specific needs and safe for your condition.
Set Up Carefully: Install the UVB therapy unit at home by strictly following all safety instructions to minimise risks and avoid skin damage.
Manage Side Effects: Address side effects like redness or irritation by adjusting the exposure time and practising proper skincare before and after each session.
Types of UVB light therapy devices for home use
There are two suitable UVB light therapy devices for home use designed to accommodate different treatment needs:
- Handheld Devices: These are compact and designed to treat localised areas such as the hands, arms or face. The handheld UV308B1 UVB unit is ideal for targeted therapy. These devices are especially effective for small areas that need concentrated treatment.
- Full-Body Units: For those requiring more extensive treatment across the body, larger devices like the 5 Lamp UVB Narrowband Phototherapy Unit and the 9 Lamp UVB Narrowband Phototherapy Unit. These units offer full-body coverage and are similar to the equipment used in clinical settings but are tailored for convenient home use and ideal for more serious or widespread situations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using UVB Light Therapy
- Preparing the Skin:
Before starting UVB light therapy, it’s crucial to prepare your skin properly to ensure effective treatment. Clean the area to be treated, removing any makeup, lotions, or substances that might interfere with the light’s effectiveness. This helps the UVB rays penetrate the skin more efficiently, enhancing the therapeutic benefits. For sensitive skin, consider a light moisturiser that won’t block the light but will protect the skin.
- Duration and Frequency of Treatments:
The duration and frequency of UVB light therapy should be carefully followed as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Typically, treatments begin with shorter sessions, gradually increasing based on the skin’s response and tolerance. Consistency is key—regular sessions, usually two to three times weekly, are recommended to achieve the best results. Keeping a consistent schedule helps maintain the treatment’s effectiveness and ensures your skin condition improves steadily.
- Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Treatment:
Keep a detailed record of each treatment session, noting the length of exposure and any skin reactions. This log will be invaluable for tracking progress and any side effects. Observe how your skin responds to the treatment, looking for signs of improvement or any adverse reactions. Based on these observations, your dermatologist might adjust the treatment plan, modifying the duration or frequency of sessions to optimise outcomes and minimise side effects.
Combining UVB Light Therapy with Other Treatments
Adding UVB light therapy to your skincare routine before using moisturisers or topical treatments. This helps UVB light penetrate your skin more effectively.
Combine UVB light therapy with topical treatments prescribed by your dermatologist to boost effectiveness. Applying medicated creams or ointments post-light therapy can help soothe the skin and reinforce the therapy’s benefits, leading to better results.
Maintain a detailed journal of your UVB light therapy sessions, noting any additional treatments and your skin’s reaction. This record will help your healthcare provider tailor your treatment effectively, optimise benefits, and minimise side effects.
Conclusion
Understanding the triggers of eczema flaring up, such as allergens and stress, and learning how to manage them with UVB light therapy at home can significantly improve your condition. For safe and effective treatment, it’s crucial to consult regularly with your dermatologist and carefully select the right equipment.
At Skin Matters Bristol, we provide advanced UVB technology to help you treat eczema comfortably from your own home. Explore our range of UVB solutions and begin your journey to healthier skin today.
FAQ’s
- Can exercise cause eczema to flare up?
Yes, sweating during exercise can trigger eczema flare-ups. To keep cool and dry, wear breathable fabrics and shower immediately after workouts.
- What types of allergens can trigger eczema?
Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and certain moulds. Avoiding these triggers can help manage eczema symptoms effectively.
- How can I keep my home environment eczema-friendly?
Maintain a dust-free environment, use hypoallergenic bedding, and control indoor humidity levels to help reduce eczema flare-ups at home.
- How can I create a consistent skincare routine for my eczema?
To maintain skin hydration and health, use gentle, fragrance-free products, moisturise daily, especially after showering, and avoid harsh soaps.
- Are there any specific foods that can cause eczema to flare up?
Foods like dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten can trigger eczema in some people. Consider an elimination diet to identify specific triggers.