Excimer Laser Treatment: A Cure for Psoriasis

Excimer laser treatment is the newest option on the market for individuals suffering from mild to moderate psoriasis, vitiligo, white scars, eczema and hypo pigmentation caused by severe burns, liposuction or other trauma to the skin. Developed by Photomedex, this FDA approved laser treatment relieves the symptoms of these skin disorders as well as clears and repigments the skin.

During the procedure, a carefully focused beam of UVB light is sent through a fiber optic device and passed over the skin. The laser works by targeting the affected skin, suppressing the skin’s altered immune cells. It is these altered immune cells that lead to psoriasis and other skin problems. Because the laser is so narrow, normal skin is not harmed by the exposure to UVB light. It is on account of this area specific-treatment method that the Excimer laser is considered safer than the alternatives. The Excimer laser is especially effective for patients with psoriasis on their scalp, hands, elbows and knees.

Until the Excimer laser came on the market, psoriasis and related skin conditions were most commonly treated with phototherapy which, though effective, required patients undergo 25-30 sessions before treatment completion. This new laser offers a quicker alternative, consisting of considerably less sessions and faster results. Although improvement of the skin may be noted in as little as one session with the Excimer laser, it is more common for a patient to have to undergo six to ten sessions before psoriasis and other skin conditions go into remission. This remission usually lasts for several months after which follow-up sessions are required.

Most patients feel no pain or discomfort during the treatment sessions though some report a feeling of warmth, not unlike a sunburn, at the site of the lesion. For this treatment, no anesthesia is necessary. There is no ‘down time’ and the procedure only takes about 5 minutes to complete after which the patient is free to go about his or her day. Patients are instructed to avoid sun exposure after treatment. There is minimal risk of side effects although some patients do experience blistering, redness, hyperpigmentation or sores at the site of treatment.

Treatment of psoriasis using the Excimer laser is relatively cost effective, far less than the price of medication needed to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. Furthermore, most major insurance companies cover the cost of the procedure when used to treat psoriasis.

Although the Excimer laser has proven effective time and again, there are some forms of psoriasis that are resistant to this treatment option, so make sure to consult a practitioner for more information.