The role of commercial tanning beds and ultraviolet A light in the treatment of psoriasis

Abstract

Background: Phototherapy is an effective, safe psoriasis treatment administered via office‐based units or home devices. There is controversy over the use of commercial tanning beds; ultraviolet B (UVB) has documented efficacy although commercial beds emit largely UVA. Objective: To determine the efficacy of UVA and the role of commercial tanning beds in treating psoriasis. Methods: A literature search of UVA and commercial tanning was performed. Results: UVA can be effective for psoriasis, but achieving the high doses required may not be practical. Tanning beds do emit UVB although amounts are variable. Because of variability in UVA and UVB output in different tanning bulbs, it is difficult to predict response rates using commercial tanning beds. Conclusions: UVA can be used to treat psoriasis but may not be practical. Commercial tanning beds, emitting both UVA and UVB, have a role in treating psoriasis as an alternative to office‐based therapy.

• Treatment
• tanning beds
• psoriasis
• phototherapy
• UVA
• UVB
• tanning