Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser

Phototherapy (Narrow-Band UVB) – Session Instructions

Last reviewed 1 July 2026 — Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed

A patient advice sheet — 8 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.

Last reviewed: July 2026

The advice

Phototherapy is safe and effective for psoriasis, vitiligo and more under medical supervision — completely different from tanning beds.
Consistency is everything: 2–3 sessions weekly, and results usually need 15–30 sessions; a long gap resets the dose downwards and delays results.
Before each session: no perfumes, oud oil or scented creams on the skin — they photosensitize and can cause burns; only what your doctor recommends (a thin layer of plain moisturizer) is allowed.
Tell the team about any new medicine before each session; some drugs increase light sensitivity.
Inside the unit: protective goggles are mandatory at all times, genital shielding for men, and the face is covered if not affected.
Expose the same skin areas every session (same clothing) so dosing stays consistent and safe.
Mild pink redness after a session is normal; painful redness lasting beyond 24 hours, or blisters — tell the team before your next session so the dose is adjusted.
Moisturize generously every day, and avoid heavy sun exposure and tanning on treatment days.

See also the full treatment page: Psoriasis treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.

My private clinic at Kuwait Hospital (Sabah Al-Salem) — direct assessment and a treatment plan built around your case.