Dealing with the symptoms of a skin condition like psoriasis can really get in the way of your daily life. The itchy, uncomfortable outbreaks make doing even simple tasks a hassle. Plus, you might feel the need to constantly cover up the area so no one can see them. If you haven’t found a treatment that works for you, there is a new option that offers effective results. The XTRAC Excimer laser treatment can provide relief for those psoriasis flares and give you back the comfort you’ve been missing.
What is the XTRAC Excimer Laser Treatment?
The XTRAC Excimer Laser is an FDA approved therapy designed to treat psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema. The system includes a small, handheld device that concentrates a band of ultraviolet B light on the area being treated. It clears lesions by breaking down the DNA of the T cells that build up to create psoriasis plaques. It is a quick, effective, and precise treatment that can be used on almost any part of the body.
What Happens During the XTRAC Excimer Laser Treatment?
During treatment, a handpiece will be used to target the laser light directly on the area being treated. The amount of light targeting the area can be adjusted in order to create the most precise results and protect the surrounding skin from harm. A guiding beam is also included in the handpiece in order to help your dermatologist conduct the most accurate treatment.
One of the many benefits of the Excimer laser treatment is that it is a painless procedure. Most patients are encouraged to receive one to three treatments a week for best results.
Who is a Good Candidate for the XTRAC Excimer Laser Treatment?
Anyone with mild to moderate psoriasis, eczema, or vitiligo will likely be a good candidate for the XTRAC Excimer laser treatment. It will be most beneficial for those dealing with these skin conditions and have not found relief from other treatments, such as medications or topical creams. Additionally, patients of all skin types and ages are eligible for this treatment.
What Areas Can Be Treated with the XTRAC Excimer Laser Treatment?
The Excimer laser can be used on almost any area of the body. Because of its ability to accurately focus on a specific area, it works well to treat typically difficult spots. Some of these difficult to treat areas include the knees, elbows, arms, hands, feet, and scalp.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
The XTRAC Excimer laser treatment is generally quite safe due to its accuracy and the advanced technology used to create the handpiece. Since it has the ability to focus solely on the specific skin condition, the risk of bruising, thinning of the skin, premature skin aging, or damage to the surrounding skin is significantly reduced.
Some mild to moderate side effects are possible with this treatment. The most common side effect is redness in the treated area. A small percentage of patients may experience other side effects, including blistering, itchiness, an increase in pigmentation, or a burning sensation. These symptoms usually subside quickly and do not cause very much pain.
Those who are sensitive to light should let their dermatologist know so they can use a lower dose during treatment if necessary. Some antibiotics or other drugs have been known to increase your photosensitibity to UVA, but the Excimer laser operates with UVB so those factors shouldn’t have an impact on your treatment. Patients with lupus, xeroderma pigmentosum, or a history of skin cancer should avoid this treatment or ask a doctor for advice on their treatment options.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re interested in learning more about what the XTRAC Excimer laser can do for you, our dermatology providers at HMGS Dermatology can help. Our team has the knowledge and experience to give you the treatment that is best for you. To get in touch, call our Marlton, NJ office at (856) 452-8586, our Camden, NJ office at (856) 644-6678, or fill out an online form.
