Phototherapy

Phototherapy

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy or heliotherapy, involves exposure to natural daylight or specific wavelengths of light emitted by various devices such as lasers, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), fluorescent lamps, dichroic lamps, or full-spectrum light sources. The duration and timing of light exposure are typically prescribed.

This therapy is commonly used to treat skin disorders like psoriasis, sleep disorders, and certain psychiatric conditions. For skin-related issues, light therapy can address conditions like acne vulgaris, eczema, and neonatal jaundice. When the light is directed at the eyes, it can regulate circadian rhythm disorders such as delayed sleep phase syndrome and seasonal affective disorder. Some evidence also supports its use for non-seasonal psychiatric disorders.

In addition to these applications, light therapy is utilized in pain management, wound healing, promoting hair growth, improving blood properties and circulation, and managing sinus-related diseases. Techniques like low-level laser therapy and red light therapy, particularly in the 620–660 nm range, are commonly employed for these purposes.