Excimer Laser: What it is, how it is used, indications and treatments

What is excimer laser therapy?

When it comes to cutting-edge laser technology, one name that stands out is the Excimer Laser. Excimer is a targeted photo therapy that delivers a specific wavelength of ultraviolet B light using an excimer laser or excimer lamp. It is useful in skin disorder treatments including vitiligo, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. It is a gentle and painless phototherapy laser that is effective in treating difficult-to-treat skin conditions. Usually, these treatments are pain-free and have zero downtime.

What are the indications of Excimer laser treatment?

Excimer laser treatments are used for treating various skin concerns like:

• Vitiligo for a few lesions
• Psoriasis, scalp psoriasis
• Atopic eczema
• Alopecia aerate
• Granuloma annulare
• Localised scleroderma

How is excimer laser used in dermatology treatments?

In the ever-evolving field of dermatology, technology has played a pivotal role in transforming the way skin conditions are treated. One such technological marvel that has gained widespread acceptance is the Excimer laser. This innovative tool has revolutionized dermatological treatments, offering patients effective solutions for various skin disorders. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of the Excimer laser, exploring its mechanisms, applications, and the remarkable impact it has had on dermatology.

The ultraviolet light produced through the excimer device is applied to the site of the skin lesion. This handheld device gives ultraviolet radiation of a specific wavelength and the skin lesion is exposed to it for a very specific duration of time. These lesions to be treated are typically small. The excimer laser is often used in combination with steroid creams and calcineurin inhibitors to enhance clinical outcomes.

Usually, patients are called for therapy from once to thrice a week. The dosage of radiation is calculated according to the skin type, lesion type, the treatment site, and response of the treatment. Generally, 6 to 8 lesions are required for a positive response.

The number of sessions required depends upon the individual response, and it might require 20 to 30 sessions on average.

How is excimer laser therapy beneficial?

• The skin surrounding the lesion is not exposed to radiation, and hence it is safer for patients having focal lesions
• In this method, different parameters are used for different areas
• A higher dosage of radiation can be delivered thus reducing the treatment duration
• It is also a safe option for children
• The treatment response is faster with an excimer laser

Excimer laser therapy has changed the way patient manage their psoriasis and is helping them achieve speedy treatment. This therapy can effectively treat stubborn plaques like knees, soles, elbows, palms, scalp, and even those areas that have not responded well to other treatments. Usually, patients get to see the results within a few sessions and it rapidly boosts their self-image.

For vitiligo patients, the treatment options are limited to topical steroids that give limited efficacy and traditional therapy increases the risk of exposing all of the skin to UV light as well as photo-aging and carcinogenicity. However, with excimer laser therapy patients can benefit from the proven repigmentation technology with no downsides. It allows targeting only the white patches and none of the healthy tissues. So one can achieve the best medical and cosmetically appealing results.

What are some of the side effects associated with excimer laser therapy?

There are certain side effects associated with this therapy but in most cases, they do not occur:

• Burning and blistering
• Painful erythema
• Hyperpigmentation
• Reaction of herpes virus infection
• Erosions

If you have psoriasis or vitiligo or you know someone who is suffering from these skin conditions, then you may be able to get relief when you visit our dermatologists at Epicorium.

We at Epicorium offer state-of-the-art excimer laser treatment for vitiligo and psoriasis patients. Our clinics are equipped with the best quality excimer laser machines.

Consult us today for your skin concerns.