Excimer laser treatments

Chronic skin conditions can be hard to manage, especially when symptoms affect sensitive areas of the body. Excimer laser treatment is a type of phototherapy that uses ultraviolet B (UVB) light to target only the affected skin, leaving healthy skin untouched. It helps reduce inflammation and ease the uncomfortable symptoms common with conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema. This noninvasive, painless option can bring relief faster than traditional light therapy, especially on areas like the face, ears, hands, and feet.

Excimer laser therapy is typically provided by general or cosmetic dermatologists, or specialized centers with trained staff and advanced equipment. Penn Medicine specialists offer this treatment to people of all ages and with many types of skin conditions.

The excimer laser is a gentle, pain-free form of light therapy. During the session, your provider will use a small handheld wand to deliver a focused beam of UVB light directly to the affected skin. The laser targets only the problem areas and leaves the healthy skin around them untouched.

The wand can be used on many parts of the body, including the face, scalp, hands, elbows, knees, and soles of the feet. Treatment usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes and doesn’t require any numbing beforehand. Most people start to see improvement after the first few sessions, which are usually scheduled two to three times per week.

There’s no downtime after treatment, so you can go back to your normal activities right away. Recovery is quick, and most people don’t experience any lasting sensation or discomfort.

Excimer laser treatment is generally safe, and most side effects are mild. Some people may notice redness, blisters, small sores, or changes in skin color, like lighter or darker patches.

Compared to traditional narrow-band UV therapy, excimer laser treatment offers several benefits:

• Fewer sessions and lower UV exposure: This lowers your risk of skin cancer and makes it easier to stick with your treatment plan.
• Precise targeting: The laser treats only the affected areas, including spots that are hard to reach.
• Customized care: Your provider can adjust the laser’s strength to match your skin and condition, which helps improve results.

Living with a long-term skin condition can be challenging, especially when it means applying topical treatments every day. But there are other options.

At Penn Medicine, we offer several advanced light-based therapies, including excimer laser treatment, to help relieve symptoms. Our team has years of experience treating chronic skin conditions and can help you feel more comfortable in your skin.