Phototherapy uses controlled doses of ultraviolet light to treat chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema — an effective, drug-free approach to difficult skin disorders.
Phototherapy uses controlled wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light to treat skin conditions where the immune system is driving abnormal skin cell behaviour. The most common modality is narrowband UVB (NB-UVB, 311nm) — which penetrates the skin just enough to modulate immune activity without excessive DNA damage, making it safer than broadband UVB. It is used for psoriasis (both plaque psoriasis and guttate psoriasis), vitiligo (to stimulate pigment cells in de-pigmented patches), atopic dermatitis (eczema), and mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma).
PUVA (psoralen + UVA) is another phototherapy modality — psoralen (a photosensitising compound taken orally or applied topically) is combined with UVA light for enhanced skin penetration. PUVA is effective for thick plaque psoriasis and certain forms of vitiligo, but carries higher long-term skin cancer risk than NB-UVB, so its use has decreased. Other light-based treatments include blue light for acne vulgaris (kills Cutibacterium acnes bacteria) and intense pulsed light (IPL) for rosacea, sun damage, and pigmentation.
In Korea, NB-UVB phototherapy is available at university hospital dermatology departments and private dermatology clinics nationwide. Treatment is typically three sessions per week for several months to achieve and maintain remission. Phototherapy requires commitment to regular attendance but avoids systemic immunosuppressive drugs with their associated risks. Blue light and IPL devices are widely available at cosmetic dermatology clinics in Korea for aesthetic applications — Korea has one of the world's most developed cosmetic dermatology markets.
Key Points
- Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB): effective for psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema
- Drug-free alternative to systemic immunosuppressants
- Typically 3 sessions/week over several months
- Blue light effective for moderate acne
- Available at university hospital dermatology departments and private clinics nationwide
- Long-term NB-UVB has much lower skin cancer risk than PUVA
When to See a Doctor
- Psoriasis not adequately controlled with topical treatments
- Vitiligo spreading or not responding to creams
- Eczema requiring second-line therapy beyond topical corticosteroids
- Discussing whether phototherapy is appropriate for your skin condition
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
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Last reviewed: March 1, 2025