There is hype on ultraviolet lamps these days, and there is actually a good reason why. Though numerous people associate UV radiation with gene mutation and cancer, there is such a thing as healthy exposure to ultraviolet light, and having your own UV lamp could in fact be helpful. Studies have revealed that getting exposed to ultraviolet light may essentially help improve circulation and fuel the production of Vitamin D, on condition that the amount of exposure does not go beyond established safety ranges.
Countless UV lamps fashioned for ornamental use are categorized under the very low range of ultraviolet rays. The rays are barely sufficient to cause effects that are anywhere close to being harmful, and the radiation is quickly absorbed into the atmosphere. Provided that your UV lamps release light rays that are under 180nm, you are safe.
Additionally, ultraviolet lamps play a much more significant role in the field of medicine. Modern facilities are now using UV light to disinfect hospital equipment, since radiation provides a hugely economical, yet very effective method of decontamination. Although autoclaving remains resolutely entrenched as the standard way of killing any odds of bacterial growth on hospital equipment, this frequently takes twice as much resource to do, particularly since surgical supplies are often sterilized. Ultraviolet light’s abilities as a germicidal has also made it an important element in the food industry.
If you regularly go to the spa on weekends, you may be aware that UV rays are usually used in tanning sessions. These are tremendously effective; though added attention must be taken to retain the ultraviolet rays well within the safe range.
UV lamps, specifically ultraviolet-B lamps, are also being used nowadays as home treatment for a number of skin conditions. UVB treatment involves baring the skin to an artificial ultraviolet-B light source. People find home therapy with UVB phototherapy lamps more practical and more satisfying compared to having skin treatment in clinical settings.
One research team did a comparison test on the effectiveness and safety of home phototherapy and standard hospital-based phototherapy treatment.
They identified 196 patients with psoriasis, and then randomized them to be given either ultraviolet-B light therapy at home or as an outpatient in a medical facility.
Both group of patients that were treated in a hospital setting and at home with the use of UVB lamps received light therapy according to standard practice.
Disease severity after treatment was measured using general scoring scales.
The two groups accomplished questionnaires that asked about their quality of life, problems with treatment, and satisfaction levels.
Effectiveness of treatment was significant and similar in both patient groups. It was also reported that increasing doses of ultraviolet-B and its short-term side effects were also the same in the two groups.
The people treated at home reported considerably lower burden of treatment and a greater satisfaction with their therapy. And most of them said that they would choose to receive treatment at home rather than in medical clinics in the future.
The researchers conclude that UVB phototherapy at home can be considered as a good alternative in treating skin conditions.