Protecting Non-Treated Areas
Always use the following to protect areas that are NOT being treated:
- UV blocking goggles (included)
- Sunscreen (if directed by provider)
- A towel, pillowcase, paper bag, or mask to cover face; clothing to cover other untreated areas of the body
- Protection for the genital area
Note: Anyone providing assistance to patients during treatments, such as guardians or home healthcare nurses, should also protect their skin and wear UV blocking goggles. Please visit the Accessories Order Form to purchase additional pairs of UV blocking goggles.
Medications and Topicals
Some topicals may hinder treatment (e.g. lotions containing UV absorbing ingredients similar to those used in sunscreens). Other topicals and medications may photosensitize your skin, for example, lotions containing photosensitizing agents or essential oils such as lime, lemon, or orange. Such ingredients could cause an unexpected erythemal reaction when exposed to the ultraviolet energy delivered during a phototherapy treatment. In addition, coal tar, psoralens, and retinoids will consistently photosensitive your skin to UV light. We strongly recommend speaking with your provider about topicals and medications that may impact your phototherapy treatments.