Narrowband UVB is the most common form of phototherapy used to treat skin diseases. "Narrowband" refers to a specific wavelength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, 311 to 312 nm.

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The narrowband range of UV radiation has proved to be the most beneficial component of natural sunlight for psoriasis.

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Narrowband UVB may also be used in the treatment of many other skin conditions including atopic eczema, vitiligo, pruritus, lichen planus, polymorphous light eruption, early cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and dermographism.

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Compared with broadband UVB:

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• Exposure times are shorter but of higher intensity.

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• The course of treatment is shorter

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• It is more likely to clear the skin condition.

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• Longer periods of remission occur before it reappears

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Patients attend for phototherapy two to four times weekly. If whole-body treatment is recommended, the patient is placed in a specially designed cabinet containing fluorescent light tubes.

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The amount of UV is carefully monitored by the phototherapy staff. A number of protocols exist depending on the individual's skin type, age, skin condition and other factors.