PUVA phototherapy

What it is

PUVA stands for psoralen and ultraviolet light. Psoralens are a type of medication which makes the skin sensitive to light. The skin is then treated with a special type of light called UVA, provided by a special machine — the PUVA machine.

What it treats

PUVA is one of the treatments used for vitiligo, where the aim is to stimulate the repigmentation process. It is also used for severe forms of psoriasis.

What to expect

The medicine is taken by mouth two hours before exposure to the light. When the vitiligo is localised, psoralens may instead be applied to the skin before the UVA treatment. Treatment is usually given twice weekly and may be required for up to a year.

In vitiligo, the face, trunk, legs and forearms tend to improve more than the hands, feet and lips. How well anyone responds varies from person to person.

Safety

PUVA must be given under close supervision by your dermatologist, who will assess whether it is suitable for you. Take the medicine exactly as prescribed and keep to the treatment schedule you are given.