Phototherapy (UV Treatment) Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for phototherapy (uv treatment): what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Wound Healing Tips
- •Moist wounds heal faster than dry wounds
- •Petroleum jelly is the gold standard for wound healing
- •Avoid picking scabs; they protect healing tissue underneath
Sun Protection is Critical
- •UV exposure on healing skin causes permanent discoloration
- •Protect the area for at least 6-12 months
- •SPF 30+ broad-spectrum, reapply every 2 hours outdoors
Phototherapy (UV Treatment) recovery, day by day
Wound Care
- Apply recommended ointment or moisturizer immediately
- Redness and tenderness at the site are expected
- Take prescribed pain medication if needed (usually OTC is sufficient)
- Do NOT pick, scratch, or peel treated skin
Skin Protection
- Your skin will be red, swollen, and sensitive; this is the expected healing response
- Apply cool compresses (not ice directly) if uncomfortable
- Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours (thins blood, increases bleeding risk)
Daily Wound Care
- Gently cleanse with mild, fragrance-free cleanser
- Apply prescribed ointment or healing cream as directed
- Do NOT use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or antibiotic ointment unless directed
- Moisturize as directed
Sun Protection
- Keep the treated area out of direct sunlight
- SPF 30+ sunscreen once the wound has closed (not on open wounds)
- Strict sun avoidance for 4-6 weeks (skin is extremely photosensitive)
- Wear protective clothing or bandages when outdoors
Healing & Scar Care
- Wound should be closed and forming a scar
- Scars continue to mature for 6-12 months (initially red/pink, gradually fading)
- Silicone scar sheets or gel can help minimize scarring (start after wound fully closes)
- Attend follow-up for wound check and biopsy results if applicable
When to call your provider or 911
- •Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling around the wound (spreading)
- •Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- •Red streaks extending from the wound
- •Fever above 101°F
- •Stitches opening or wound edges separating
- •Bleeding that doesn't stop with 15 minutes of firm pressure
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 1
Bandage removal
Skin peeling/flaking is normal healing
- Day 7
Wound closing
Wound is usually closing by now, with new skin forming
- Day 14
Follow-up
Assess healing and discuss further treatment if needed
- Day 14
Expected full healing
Most patients are healed by now, though healing time varies. Keep up sun protection for scar care, and contact us if the site still looks unhealed.
For clinics
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