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The term phototherapy means light therapy, which is a treatment procedure carried out with the use of light. Light has a significant impact on our health and well-being. Certain diseases and conditions can be cured by the beneficial properties of natural and artificial light. Recently, phototherapy is gaining more and more followers. The method is 60-80% effective. In phototherapy, specialized devices emitting ultraviolet, infrared and visible radiation are used (e.g. Sollux lamps, Fotovita, quartz lamps, Lumina, Sunlamp etc.). Heliotherapy involves the use of natural sources of the world, and actinotherapy – its artificial sources.
Natural light and the psyche
Exposure to natural light is very important because it affects our well-being. Insufficient amount of it can lead to mood swings, lack of concentration, indifference to everyday matters, apathy, sadness, anxiety, depression, black thoughts, excessive sleepiness, problems with appetite, irritability and loss of energy. symptoms these are characteristic of seasonal affective disorder, also known as seasonal depression, which usually occurs in early fall. Its remission takes place in March or April. Phototherapy it can be a useful therapeutic element not only in the case of seasonal mood disorders, but also in the treatment of other disorders (for example, postpartum depression) or mental diseases, especially depression. The exception is bipolar disorder. Light therapy circadian disorders and sleep disorders can also be treated. During treatment, white and green light are used.
Phototherapy – indications, contraindications and possible side effects
Phototherapy jest indicated to treat certain medical problems. These include the above-mentioned seasonal depression, stress, mental disorders and diseases, sleep problems, hyperactivity, ADHD, circadian rhythm disorders, bulimia, overweight, premenstrual tension syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorders, mild menopausal symptoms, skin diseases: psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne, etc.
There are some contraindications to be carried out phototherapy. These include taking medications that trigger a severe photosensitivity reaction, eye conditions such as glaucoma, and problems with the retina and lens.
Side effects of phototherapy they occur relatively rarely, but sometimes nausea, excessive irritability, visual acuity disturbances, insomnia, dizziness and headaches may occur during treatment.
Further phototherapy can be effective in the treatment of neoplasms (photodynamic therapy). In order to alleviate pain (joint pain, headache, migraine, inflammation, etc.), infrared IR radiation invisible to the human eye is used. It helps to reduce the doses of painkillers you take.
Phototherapy in cosmetology and dermatology
Phototherapy is used in cosmetology and dermatology. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is one of the ways to fight acne, a mild form of rosacea, atopic dermatitis, it also simulates collagen production, delays skin aging and accelerates its healing.
The appropriate light should be adjusted to the treatment of a given ailment, otherwise the treatments will not bring the intended results. White light first of all, it improves the elasticity and elasticity of the skin, strengthens it and supplies it with oxygen, heals wounds, stimulates metabolism and collagen formation. Red colour light helps to improve blood circulation, stimulates the metabolism of skin cells, has healing and scarring properties, and regenerates the skin. Yellow color works in soothing skin irritations, improves lymph flow and strengthens the body’s protective system. Orange light it improves the strength of our skin, heals cellulite and rebuilds collagen fibers. Blue color light helps in moisturizing and regulating problem skin, reduces excessive sebum production and relieves skin irritation. Green and it is used to reduce wrinkles, relaxes and calms the skin. Fioletowy kolor light moisturizes and soothes the skin, protects against free radicals, strengthens the skin and blood vessels, reduces redness and irritation. Thanks to this phototherapy used in cosmetology and dermatology, it is an interesting and recognized alternative to traditional methods of treatment.
Now you can use cosmetic phototherapy at home. For this purpose, buy one of the Beautifly beauty devices available on Medonet Market. You will find here, among others depilatories, devices for microdermabrasion or mesotherapy, sonic facial brushes or a laser for hair growth.
- Electrostimulation is also used to fight pain and reduce cellulite.
Phototherapeutic treatments you can do it at some physiotherapists, beauticians and in natural medicine offices. It is also possible to buy a lamp that can be used at home phototherapy. Exposed skin should be properly prepared, i.e. clean and dry. Sessions, depending on the condition being treated and the light used, last from about half an hour to even 2 hours.