Understanding Phototherapy: UV Cabin vs. Comb for Psoriasis

Let’s break it down like we’re chatting with a friend who just got diagnosed with psoriasis and is trying to figure out the best light therapy route.

First up, you’ve probably heard of UV cabins—these are the big, walk-in machines you typically see in hospital dermatology departments. They’re not available for home use. Think of them like standing inside a tanning booth, but instead of cosmetic tanning, you're getting precisely controlled doses of narrowband UVB (usually around 311 nm) aimed at reducing inflammation and slowing down the overproduction of skin cells.

But what about home options?

That’s where UV panels and UV combs come in.

A UV panel is kind of a smaller-scale version of the hospital cabin—flat, rectangular, and designed to treat larger areas of the body like your back, arms, or legs. You use it standing or sitting in front of the panel for a set time. It’s ideal if you’ve got patches across your body but don’t have access to a full-body cabin.

Then there’s the UV comb. This handheld tool is perfect for small, stubborn spots—especially the scalp, elbows, knees, or behind the ears. It has built-in teeth (like a regular comb) so it can part the hair and let UV light reach the skin underneath. It’s also portable, easy to use, and a great option if you’re managing milder or more localized psoriasis.

In a nutshell:

UV Cabins - Hospital only. Full-body treatment under professional supervision.

UV Panels - At-home option. Good for widespread but manageable cases.

UV Combs - Also at home. Best for small or hard-to-reach areas like the scalp.

Choosing the right one depends on the severity and location of your psoriasis—as well as what kind of setup and support you have access to at home. Always speak with a dermatologist before starting, but if you're cleared for home therapy, panels and combs can be powerful tools in your treatment toolkit.

Want help comparing panel and comb models or knowing what features to look for? Just let me know—happy to help.