The following applies to Elidel (Pimecrolimus Topical), Protopic (Tacrolimus Topical) and some Corticosteroids prescribed for skin challenges.
A question that comes up quite often is “Should I use Protopic?” or perhaps “Should I use Elidel?” and then the question continues “… while using UVB Narrow Band?”.
Generally speaking, any drug or cream should be avoided and not be applied immediately before or during UVB Narrow Band treatment. Elidel and Protopic and most other things you apply to your skin, change the skin’s sensitivity to UV light. Some drugs increase your sensitivity (Psoralens & others) while others reduce your skin’s sensitivity (sun blocks and the like). All of these should be avoided UNLESS SPECIFICALLY PRESCRIBED by your Dermatologist.
I do recommend that if Protopic, Elidel or other Corticosteroid has been prescribed that you use it following UV treatment or on the alternate days. Do not apply these creams before treatment UNLESS SPECIFICALLY PRESCRIBED by your Dermatologist. It is not safe to apply these creams before treatment as they can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV light and increase the risk of severe erythema (sunburn).
Do no assume that you know more than your dermatologist!
Avoid sunlight, sun lamps, tanning beds, and phototherapy treatments with UVA or UVB light. If you must be outdoors, wear loose clothing over the skin areas treated with Protopic. Do not use sunscreen on treated skin unless your doctor has told you to.
- Read more: http://www.drugs.com/protopic.html
- Read more: http://www.drugs.com/elidel.html
REMEMBER: This is not MEDICAL ADVICE Please read my disclaimer at http://www.vithappens.com/index.php/disclaimer/
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Hi could you tell me if its ok to use Elidel on skin that has a fake tan.
I use fake tan(self tanner) once or twice a week as its to help hide the hypo marks.Can you tell me if i was to put Elidel on affected areas(making sure they are not wet and dry) would it still work ie penetrate the skin and do its job?
Also how long do you have to keep the cream on when applied?
Your response would be much appreciated
Thanks
Fabio
Hi Fabio. I really don’t know. I guess that this is a subject that needs to be discussed with your doctor/dermataolgist. I know that many folks use Elidel or Protopic following UVB Narrowband Treatment. One should not use any creams or ointments on the skin before or during UVB NB treatment as most chemicals of al kinds can change the skin’s sensitivity to UV light and should be avoided.
Hi chris thanks for you response so how does it work with regards to elidel/protopic and uvb nb,
Do you do a course of uvb nb WITHOUT USING ELIDEL(at home in my case when i buy a uvb nb wand) then once finished you start using the Elidel??
Or do you use the elidel with uvb nb but not on the days you you use the cream??
Im a little confused so if you could explain i would appreciate it chris.
Thanks
Fabio
Hi Fabio.
Many people use Elidel or Protopic following UVB NB treatment or on the days when they are not doing UVB Narrowband treatment. These choices should be made by you and your doctor. The important thing is “Do not apply any cream before or during UVB NB treatment as most creams change the skin’s photosensitivity.”
Chris