Some of the most common skin diseases which are treatable with UVB phototherapy are:

  • Psoriasis: is a common inherited skin disorder, which may vary considerably in extent and severity. Neither phototherapy nor any other available treatment affects a permanent cure. Most psoriasis patients will have their psoriasis cleared or much improved after 12 to 24 treatments. At this stage treatments will usually be discontinued. Even without treatment, the skin may remain clear for some months. However, the psoriasis may later flare up again, and further UVB treatment may be necessary.
  • Dermatitis: UVB is occasionally used for severe cases of dermatitis, especially atopic eczema.
  • Vitiligo: UVB is one of the most effective treatments for vitiligo.  It may take several months to see an improvement.
  • Other skin conditions: Many other skin conditions have been effectively treated with UVB, including generalised itch, prurigo, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, pityriasis lichenoides, and symptomatic dermographism etc.