Phototherapy UVA1

[shopaddict]

Hello, has anyone benefited from phototherapy for morphea/skin tightening. I'm about to start some treatment

[AfterForever]

Hello. I've never received UVA1 therapy because the Lupus component of my MCTD has made me extremely (and very unfortunately) photosensitive. That said, with the understanding I have of it's effects, I very highly recommend undergoing the treatments (with proper blood work and supplementation of specific vitamins, which I'll list at the end). Here's why:

UVA1 (as well as natural sunlight) has the following four, and currently proven, effects. It does have others, though these three will be the most beneficial for you.

1) Immunomodulation

2) Normalization of collagen (though temporary)

3) Normalization of elastin (again, temporary; this is the effect that will most directly benefit your morphea.

4) Incresed Interferon

Precautions:

1) Blood work before beginning treatment for your level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D. Reason: UVA1 decreases production within one's body. If levels are shown to be low prior to or decrease during treatment, supplementation will be necessary. Another option is a combination therapy using UVA1 and nbUVB (narrow broadband UVB). The latter, alone or in combination with UVA1, will / can prevent Vitamin D loss via stimulation of the body's production (as does sunlight - without sunscreen, as it blocks the Vitamin D producing effects of sunlight).

2) Supplementation with N-Acetyl-Cysteine. Reason: NAC increases one's glutathione production, which is generally lowered by the oxidative effects of UVA1 therapy.

Ask questions of your prospective doctor and insist on bloodwork for your Vitamin D levels.

Peace.

[shopaddict in reply to AfterForever]

Thanks for your advice. Much appreciated.

[Hidden]

Hello I am about to start phototherapy, and I wondered as you posted a couple of months ago how you are finding it? and also how many times a week you go for treatment.

Thank you

[shopaddict in reply to Hidden]

Hi. I had 15 sessions of phototherapy over October/November. 3 sessions per week. Quickly built up treatment to 25 minutes per side (front and back) per session. I quickly noticed a difference on my abdomen. Skin was softer and the lumpy hard skin was less obvious although still there. Unfortunately haven't noticed much difference elsewhere. Going back to see dermatologist in January so not sure if I will be offered another 15 sessions. Suppose it depends on whether they think it was beneficial or not. I am a wee bit disappointed as I thought I would see more results particularly on my face chest arms. Anyway, apparently effects of the treatment continue even after treatment stopped so I live in hope that things still may improve. Hope this helps

[Hidden in reply to shopaddict]

Thank you yes very helpful. I really hope things improve for your