Lasers provide a unique option for treatment referred to as “targeted phototherapy.” The laser gives off light that will only attack the psoriasis and will completely ignore the skin in the surrounding area. Since only the area affected by psoriasis will be treated, this means that the light used can be powerful. Using a stronger dose of light will penetrate that much further into the psoriasis. Laser treatment for psoriasis then provides an effective means for sufferers who want to beat psoriasis and rid of that patch on their hands, feet, or scalp that refuses to go away.

Number of Treatments

Not as many treatment sessions are needed for laser treatment for psoriasis as opposed to other phototherapies. If the results of the laser treatment for psoriasis is positive, then typically only 4-10 sessions will be necessary to rid of the psoriasis that is targeted. Though, this will vary depending on the psoriasis and the laser type.

Remission

Since laser treatment for psoriasis is fairly new, the amount of information is limited in terms of the length of remission. A pulsed dye laser was used in one study to treat psoriasis on the feet and hands. A topical psoriasis medicine was applied by patients in between laser treatments in order for the laser to more effectively penetrate the psoriasis. Approximately 76% reacted well to it, and as a result had clear skin for a long time. 11 months was the average remission time.

The excimer laser has had more studies done on it. One study discovered that 3-4 months is the average remission time following the prior treatment. Though, another study indicated that remission time could be longer. Specifically, this study claimed that 26 out of 28 patients were going through remission.

Side Effects

Bruising is expected as a result of getting laser treatment for psoriasis using a pulsed dye laser. This laser in particular goes through the skin and eliminates the blood vessels that are responsible for the growth of psoriasis. The risk of skin cancer or aging skin is not increased when using a pulsed dye laser because it only creates visible light, and not UV light.

Following treatment, a burning sensation, swelling, and temporary redness are additional side effects that are possible from laser treatment for psoriasis. Other developments could include burns or blisters, but this is not common. In some cases, the treated skin turns dark. Scarring could also occur, but the chances are slim.

Who Will Be Operating?

Few states actually have regulations concerning what qualifications are necessary in order to perform laser treatment for psoriasis. Since side effects are possible with light treatments such as lasers, you should always be aware of who is doing the procedure. A board-certified dermatologist is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology to perform laser procedures.

You should also know that laser treatment for psoriasis can only target a small area of psoriasis and not patches that are all over the body.