Spectrum Phototherapy
Spectrum Phototherapy
Dr. Joneson is a family physician who founded Spectrum Phototherapy in 2019 as a continuation of UVB phototherapy that operated out of Chilliwack General Hospital for 30 years. Dr Joneson and his staff strive to offer friendly and timely light therapy for all. We love watching patients’ satisfaction as their skin improves with our therapy. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like to learn more about the transformative power of narrow band UVB phototherapy.
Phototherapy FAQ
UVB Phototherapy utilizes specialized light bulbs to treat various inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Historically, exposure to natural sunlight was often associated with improvement of certain skin disorders. UV refers to the ultraviolet light spectrum. Narrow band refers to a few very specific wavelengths of light in the ultraviolet spectrum. These wavelengths were studied and found to be just as beneficial to your skin as the entire UV spectrum.
Ultraviolet rays decrease skin inflammation when dosed properly.
Psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, generalized itch, cutaneous lymphoma, lichen planus, and other rare inflammatory skin conditions can all benefit from narrow band UVB light therapy.
A person enters a stand-up light booth- much like a typical tanning bed- lined with 48 specialized UVB light bulbs. During treatment, clients wear clothing that exposes the areas of skin to be treated, and leave any areas of healthy or unaffected skin covered. Patients wear safety goggles to protect their eyes from UV light. The machine is programmed to deliver a specific dose of light and most sessions last between 1-10 minutes.
Most dermatologists recommend light therapy two to three times a week for eligible skin conditions. Treatment may be decreased to one or two days a week once a client’s skin has improved to a level they are happy with. It can often take thirty or more visits to properly judge if UVB therapy is effective for a client. Depending on the skin condition and its severity, some clients may only need light therapy for a short period of time, whereas others require ongoing treatment.
The most common side effect is a mild sunburn. More severe sunburns are also possible. If proper eye protection is not worn, visual damage is possible. Prolonged courses of light therapy may have a very small risk of skin cancer.
Consistency is key with light therapy. Ensure the same clothing is worn for each treatment to reduce the risk of burning areas not usually exposed to the light. Once or twice a year it is advised to take a month break from light therapy and have a skin check, performed by a physician, to look for any concerning skin spots.
Ask your pharmacist if any medication you are taking affects how your skin absorbs light. These medications do not need to be stopped, but the dose of light can be adjusted to make your treatments safer. Always let your phototherapy practitioner know if you’ve had a change to your medications.
A referral is required by your family physician or dermatologist to receive a light therapy consultation. All light therapy visits are covered by your provincial health insurance.
Spectrum Medical was founded in 2019 by Dr. Darren Joneson. Our goal is to provide friendly and convenient care to all patients. We are dedicated to professionalism, self-improvement and team-based care.
For any more questions regarding phototherapy please feel free to contact us at 604-846-6356 or info@spectrumbc.ca.
