Watching your child struggle with eczema can be heartbreaking. Red, itchy patches make them uncomfortable and affect their daily activities. While traditional eczema treatment options help many children, some cases need more advanced approaches.
XTRAC laser treatment offers a promising solution for stubborn eczema that does not respond to conventional therapies. This targeted light therapy delivers focused ultraviolet light directly to affected skin areas.
Many parents wonder if this treatment is safe and effective for eczema in children. In this article, we will explore XTRAC laser treatment for eczema in detail and whether it is the right choice for your child.
Understanding XTRAC Laser Treatment
XTRAC stands for excimer targeted phototherapy system. This FDA-approved device uses targeted ultraviolet B light to treat various skin conditions. The laser delivers precise doses of therapeutic light to specific areas of damaged skin.
Unlike traditional phototherapy that exposes the entire body to UV light, XTRAC focuses only on problem areas. This targeted approach reduces exposure to healthy skin. The treatment typically takes just a few minutes per session.
The laser works by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells that causes eczema symptoms. It also reduces inflammation and helps restore normal skin function. Most patients need multiple sessions spread over several weeks to see optimal results of this advanced eczema treatment.
How XTRAC Helps Children With Eczema
Eczema in children often appears as red, scaly patches on the face, elbows, and knees. These areas can become extremely itchy and painful. Traditional treatments include topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone cream (Cortaid) and moisturizers.
XTRAC laser treatment offers several advantages for pediatric patients. The targeted approach means less medication exposure throughout the body. This reduces the risk of side effects common with systemic treatments.
Children often respond well to XTRAC therapy because their skin heals faster than adult skin. The treatment can provide relief when topical treatments fail to control symptoms. Many young patients see improvement within the first few treatment sessions.
The Treatment Process for Young Patients
The XTRAC laser treatment process for children with eczema is as follows:
Evaluating Your Child’s Condition
Before starting XTRAC therapy, your dermatologist will evaluate your child’s condition thoroughly. They will determine if laser treatment is appropriate based on the severity and location of eczema patches.
During the Treatment
During treatment, your child will wear protective eyewear to shield their eyes from UV light. The dermatologist will position the laser handpiece directly over the affected skin area. Each pulse of light lasts only seconds and covers a small area.
What to Expect
Most children tolerate the treatment well with minimal discomfort. Some describe the sensation as a brief warm feeling or mild snapping against the skin. Treatment sessions typically last 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the eczema treatment area.
Safety Considerations for Pediatric Patients
Parents naturally worry about exposing their children to UV light, given its association with skin cancer. XTRAC uses a specific wavelength of UVB light that provides therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks.
The targeted delivery system ensures only the affected skin receives treatment. This precision reduces overall UV exposure compared to traditional phototherapy booths. Your dermatologist will carefully calculate the appropriate dose based on your child’s skin type and condition severity.
Common side effects include temporary redness and mild irritation at the treatment site. These effects usually fade within hours of treatment.
Serious adverse reactions are rare when the treatment is performed by qualified professionals.
Research Supporting XTRAC for Eczema Treatment
A recent study examined XTRAC’s effectiveness in treating atopic dermatitis. Researchers found that XTRAC can reduce itching by 81% in 4 weeks.
Another study published in the Brazilian Society of Dermatology concluded that XTRAC is an efficacious and safe modality of treatment in childhood atopic dermatitis with a good therapeutic index and minimal side effects.
These studies demonstrate that XTRAC can be an effective option for eczema in children who do not respond adequately to conventional treatments.
Treatment Timeline and Expectations
Most children need multiple (more than 10) XTRAC sessions to achieve optimal results. Treatments are typically scheduled two to three times per week initially. The frequency may decrease as symptoms improve.
Some patients notice improvement after just a few sessions. However, complete clearance usually takes several weeks (at least 18 to 36) of consistent treatment. Your dermatologist will monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Maintenance sessions may be necessary to prevent eczema flares. The frequency of maintenance treatments varies depending on your child’s individual response and symptom patterns.
Alternative Treatment Options
While XTRAC shows promise for difficult cases, other treatments may be appropriate for your child. Topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus (Protopic) offer steroid-free options for sensitive areas.
Wet wrap therapy can provide intensive moisturization for severely dry skin. This technique involves applying medication and wrapping the area with damp bandages. Many children find this approach soothing and effective.
Biologic medications represent another advanced option for severe eczema. Drugs like dupilumab (Dupixent) target specific immune system pathways involved in eczema development.
Eczema Treatment in Phoenix and Yuma, AZ
If your child continues to struggle with persistent eczema despite conventional treatments, advanced options like XTRAC laser therapy may provide the relief you have been seeking. The key is working with an experienced dermatology provider who understands the unique needs of pediatric patients.
At Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology, our team, led by nurse practitioner Samantha Casselman, specializes in comprehensive eczema care for children and adults. We offer the latest treatment options, including XTRAC laser therapy, in a comfortable environment designed with young patients in mind.
Contact us today at (602) 837-3376 or use our convenient online appointment request form to schedule a consultation. We look forward to serving you!
