UVB Phototherapy in Brisbane

Specialist Dermatologist-Supervised Narrowband UVB Treatment

UVB phototherapy is an established medical treatment used in dermatology for a range of inflammatory and immune-mediated skin conditions. It involves controlled exposure of the skin to ultraviolet B (UVB) light under strict medical supervision.

At Your Dermatologist, UVB phototherapy is prescribed and monitored by a specialist dermatologist as part of an evidence-based, individualised treatment plan, with a focus on safety, effectiveness and long-term skin health.

What is UVB phototherapy?

UVB phototherapy uses a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light to help reduce skin inflammation and abnormal immune activity. The most commonly used form is narrowband UVB (NB-UVB), which delivers a targeted wavelength shown to be effective for several chronic skin conditions.

UVB phototherapy is a well-established dermatological treatment when delivered using appropriate protocols and medical supervision.

When is UVB phototherapy used?

UVB phototherapy may be considered for conditions such as:

  • Psoriasis

  • Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

  • Vitiligo

  • Other inflammatory or pruritic skin conditions

Suitability depends on the diagnosis, severity, skin type, previous treatments and individual medical factors.

Why specialist supervision is important

Although UVB phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment, it must be delivered carefully. Specialist supervision is required to:

  • Confirm the diagnosis and appropriateness of phototherapy

  • Calculate safe starting doses

  • Gradually adjust exposure based on skin response

  • Monitor for side effects or complications

At Your Dermatologist, phototherapy is prescribed only when the expected benefit outweighs potential risks, and treatment is reviewed regularly.

Phototherapy equipment

UVB phototherapy at Your Dermatologist is delivered using a medical-grade phototherapy unit, including the Medisun 2800, which allows controlled, standardised delivery of narrowband UVB light.

The choice of equipment supports accurate dosing and patient safety, but outcomes depend primarily on correct diagnosis, protocol and monitoring not the device alone.

What does UVB phototherapy involve?

Treatment typically involves:

  • Short, scheduled treatment sessions

  • Gradual dose escalation over time

  • Multiple sessions per week for a defined treatment course

The number of sessions required varies depending on the condition and individual response.

What results can be expected?

UVB phototherapy aims to:

  • Reduce inflammation and disease activity

  • Improve symptoms such as itch, redness and scaling

  • Support longer-term disease control in suitable conditions

Response varies between individuals. Some conditions improve significantly, while others may require ongoing or combination therapy. Complete clearance or permanent remission cannot be guaranteed.

Safety and long-term considerations

When delivered appropriately, narrowband UVB phototherapy has a favourable safety profile. Your dermatologist will discuss:

  • Short-term skin reactions (such as redness or dryness)

  • Cumulative UV exposure

  • Long-term monitoring where repeated courses are required

Sun protection and adherence to treatment protocols are important parts of safe care.

What to expect at your consultation

Your consultation will include:

  • Assessment of your skin condition and severity

  • Discussion of treatment options, including alternatives

  • Explanation of phototherapy protocol and time commitment

  • Review of risks, benefits and expected outcomes

  • Ongoing review during treatment 

UVB phototherapy with a dermatologist in Brisbane

If you have a chronic inflammatory skin condition that has not responded adequately to topical treatments, UVB phototherapy may be an appropriate option following specialist assessment.

At Your Dermatologist, phototherapy is provided as part of careful, evidence-based medical dermatology with realistic expectations and close supervision.