The issue of visiting a solarium for psoriasis worries very many, since light therapy is widespread in skin diseases. Dermatologists often prescribe ultraviolet light therapy because it has a beneficial effect on the skin. But when asked whether it is possible to go to a solarium with psoriasis, one cannot answer for sure that yes, since the form of the disease plays a role. In general, the procedure is really useful, but the final decision on the appointment of such treatment should be made by a specialist.
Is it possible or not
There are indeed benefits of a solarium in the treatment of psoriasis, but you need to understand that this is primarily a cosmetic procedure, and not the main method of therapy. And he helps not 100% of patients, but about 80-90%. Therefore, before deciding to go to the solarium, you should consult your doctor.
You can visit the solarium for psoriasis. But keep in mind that it all depends on the studio. Not every salon has equipment that will not only do no harm, but also bring good results. The use of a tanning bed for psoriasis is associated with the positive effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin. Its spectrum is divided into several intervals:
- UV-A (UV-A) – ultraviolet spectrum A. The wavelength of light rays is 315-400 nm.
- UV-B (UV-B) – ultraviolet spectrum B. Wavelength is 280-315 nm.
- UV-C (UV-C) – ultraviolet spectrum C. Wavelength – 100-280 nm. This light is harmful to humans and their skin, but it is not used in tanning studios.
In tanning studios, UV-A and UV-B lamps are usually installed. For skin affected by psoriasis, light with a wavelength of 311 nm is most beneficial. This has been proven as a result of several studies by domestic and foreign scientists.
There are even special ultraviolet lamps that give a narrow beam of light. They are often used to treat psoriasis in children, since a tanning bed is contraindicated for them. In childhood, the risk of injury and burns is higher because the skin is delicate and sensitive. It also increases the risk of developing melanoma (skin cancer) in adulthood.
Spectrum selection is also important because excessive radiation can injure the skin and increase the likelihood of developing cancer. The right combination of Spectrum A and Spectrum B is needed to treat psoriasis .
Indications and limitations of the solarium
In winter, many patients are even advised to start going to the solarium. But the benefits are also noted in the summer. The reason is that the solarium does not use the dangerous UV spectrum – the C spectrum, which is found in sunlight.
What are the benefits of visiting a solarium:
- the production of vitamin D is stimulated (relieves stress, inhibits the formation of plaques);
- painful sensations decrease;
- bone structures and connective tissues are strengthened;
- inflammatory processes decrease;
- healing is accelerated, a drying effect is manifested.
Also, fake tanning has a masking effect that can reduce the contrast in the appearance of healthy skin and plaque-covered integuments.
In the question of whether it is possible to go to a solarium with psoriasis, the form of the disease is important. The procedure is especially beneficial with a drop-shaped form, which differs from other varieties in a minimum number of rashes. Artificial tanning is contraindicated in the following types of psoriasis:
- Pustular. This form of psoriasis is characterized by blistering, especially with relapse. Therefore, when heated, the number of elements of the rash will only increase, because heating will increase inflammation.
- Summer. In this case, the number of rashes, on the contrary, increases. This is due to the fact that the skin reacts negatively to exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
Also on the list of contraindications is psoriasis, which is accompanied by erythroderma and photodermatosis (increased skin sensitivity to sunlight).
Basic rules for visiting
Whether a tanning bed is beneficial or harmful for psoriasis depends on how closely the patient follows the dermatologist’s instructions. Basic rules for visiting:
- The duration of the full course is 20-30 sessions.
- Frequency – no more than 1 time in 2 days.
- Each session is no more than 5-6 minutes.
- The time of visiting is better during the period of remission, and not at the moment of exacerbation.
For the body to adapt, it is worth starting with 2-3 minutes of tanning. The main thing is not to exceed the maximum time determined by experts as 5-6 minutes. Dermatologists recommend an upright tanning bed because it works evenly on the entire body. It is also worth checking with a specialist in advance the list of drugs that are incompatible with ultraviolet light. This is important because any patient uses a special ointment for psoriasis.
Finally
Thus, a solarium will help with psoriasis, if you follow the rules for visiting it and constantly be monitored by a professional dermatologist. It is equally important to consider your form of psoriasis, since ultraviolet light is not useful for all manifestations of the disease.
The effectiveness of the procedure can be assessed after just one session. If everything went well, the number of rashes did not increase, and the inflammation did not intensify, then the course can be continued until the very end. To get really good results, it is worth visiting licensed certified studios.
We would like to point out that VF does not recommend a solarium and is against its use. In addition, tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.