Phototherapy cabinets shine healing power of light

They may look like sunbeds but these are new phototherapy cabinets which heal rather than tan the skin. Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust has installed the cutting-edge equipment at its Dermatology unit in Ormskirk. The walk-in cabinets emit UVB rays which help patients with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. The unit, which sees around 20,000 patients a year, underwent refurbishment over summer and the new cabinets are already proving popular with patients. Staff nurse Lauren Penn said: “We are one of the first trusts in the UK to get these new phototherapy cabinets. The UVB rays heal a variety of skin conditions. They penetrate the skin and heal from the inside out. “We have already seen an improvement in skin conditions for patients who are using the new cabinets.” The amount of time patients can spend inside is strictly monitored. It can range from 25 seconds to five minutes. Ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy uses a wavelength of light that is invisible to human eyes. Dermatologist Dr Aamir Memon added: “We strive to offer the very best dermatology care to our patients. We want to become a centre of excellence for psoriasis in the North West. “By replacing old phototherapy machines with state of the art equipment, we have moved a step closer to this aim. “Apart from psoriasis, phototherapy is an option for patients with numerous conditions such as eczema, acne, generalised itching, and other inflammatory conditions.” Dermatology at Ormskirk hospital also treats people who suffer from acne and oversees minor skin surgery, allergy skin patching and photodynamic therapy. The team also carries out skin cancer reviews.