UVB Light Therapy
Also known as: Narrowband Ultraviolet B Light (nbUVB) therapy, TL01 therapy, light therapy or phototherapy
UVB Light Therapy can treat dermatology conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and other itchy skin conditions.
What is UVB light therapy?
You may be referred for this treatment by a Consultant Dermatologist when other forms of treatment, including topical ointments and/or steroids, have not been successful or are becoming less effective. We use a Daavlin Neolux tall upright cabinet that can treat the whole body and offer a discreet service in a private air-conditioned room.
Before treatment
You will need to have a referral either via one of our in-house Consultant Dermatologists or an external Consultant Dermatologist. Once we have reviewed the referral form, we will contact you to arrange an appointment for a pre-assessment. This is to ensure that your condition is suitable for treatment and to explain the treatment procedure, benefits and short- and long-term potential risks. In most cases this pre-assessment appointment will also include carrying out a Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) test which allows the starting dose for treatment to be safely calculated based on your skin type and response to a low dose of NbUVB.
NbUVB is the safest form of light therapy and it is typically very effective.
Light therapy is recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) regulatory body and we comply with the British Association of Dermatology guidelines, using best clinical practice to ensure treatment is as safe as possible.
How to prepare for the appointment?
Ensure that you know the dates of any planned holiday or times when you will not be able to attend. Bring a list of your current medication, including any supplements.
If you have had previous light therapy elsewhere, make a note of the clinic/hospital details as we will need to request a summary of your treatment.
During treatment
Once we have reviewed the referral form, we will contact you to arrange an appointment for a pre-assessment. This is to ensure that your condition is suitable for treatment and to explain the treatment procedure, benefits and short- and long-term potential risks. In most cases this pre-assessment appointment will also include carrying out a Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) test which allows the starting dose for treatment to be safely calculated based on your skin type and response to a low dose of NbUVB.
Treatment is delivered as a course and it is important to attend all the planned appointments to achieve a good response. Missing appointments will result in the dose needing to be lowered or potentially the treatment discontinued.
Your skin will be assessed before each treatment.
Treatments are usually short and generally well tolerated but allow 30 minutes for each appointment.
An expected response to light therapy is feeling warm during and/or afterwards.
After treatment
Treatment will continue until the course is completed, as long as you are tolerating the treatment well, or your symptoms resolve. Any unused sessions will be saved on your patient account and may be used for further light therapy treatment.
If you fail to attend 2 appointments, treatment may be discontinued but this will be discussed with you and your Consultant Dermatologist.
A discharge letter will be sent to your referring Consultant Dermatologist, who may request to review you. You will also be advised to continue with your moisturising routine and taking care with sun exposure.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where your stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Pay monthly
Paying for your treatment at OSD Healthcare doesn’t need to mean settling the full cost in one go.
Many of our treatments have a pay monthly option that allows you to spread the cost of your treatment over 12 months with no credit checks required.
A minimum spend of £300 does apply. We’ll take your first payment upfront and then arrange a direct debit for your monthly payments thereafter. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.
One session: £70
Course of ten sessions: £630