What is Grenz ray therapy?
Grenz radiation is delivered in a highly controlled medical setting, using a calibrated machine that emits very soft, low-energy X-rays.
Grenz rays are designed to target the epidermis, with approximately 90% of beam energy absorbed at a depth of 0.5 mm. This shallow penetration makes the therapy suitable for treating superficial skin changes, such as field cancerisation. While the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, Grenz ray therapy is a non-invasive option that may be considered when topical treatments have not been effective.
When is Grenz ray therapy used?
Grenz ray therapy is primarily used to treat non-cancerous or pre-cancerous skin conditions.
Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP)
A chronic, sun-induced skin condition causing multiple rough, reddish lesions, often on the lower legs and arms.
Field cancerisation
Areas of skin with widespread sun damage may develop multiple precancerous changes.
Note: Grenz ray therapy is not suitable for invasive or high-risk superficial skin cancers. For those conditions, we may recommend superficial X-ray therapy (XRT).
Grenz ray therapy vs. X-ray therapy: what’s the difference?
Feature | Grenz ray therapy | Superficial X-ray therapy (XRT) |
Depth of penetration | Very shallow – affects only the epidermis | Deeper – targets cancerous cells in the dermis |
Used for | DSAP, field damage, psoriasis, eczema | Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma |
Type of conditions | Non-cancerous skin disorders | Superficial skin cancers |
Procedure type | Non-invasive | Non-invasive |
Appointment frequency | Typically 4–6 sessions | 12–20 sessions |
What to expect: your appointment journey
- You get a referral from your GP or dermatologist and send it to us.
- We call you and arrange an appointment.
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You attend your initial consultation. Remember to bring your:
- Referral letter.
- Medicare card.
- List of current medications.
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You meet your Just Skin treatment team, who will:
- Conduct a clinical assessment.
- Take photographs.
- Develop your treatment plan.
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You attend weekly treatment sessions over 4–6 weeks, which typically take about 15 minutes each.
- You remain fully clothed, except for the area being treated.
- You can resume normal activities immediately with no downtime.
- You attend a follow-up appointment where we assess your response to treatment and discuss next steps.
How much does Grenz ray therapy cost?
The cost of Grenz ray therapy varies based on the number of sessions required and your individual treatment plan. Our administrative team will provide a detailed quote before you begin treatment.
- Medicare rebate available – with an eligible referral.
- Medicare Safety Net – may further reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
- DVA patients – fully covered with appropriate Gold Card approval.
- No private health insurance required.
If you have questions about costs or rebates, please talk to us.
Are there any side effects?
Grenz ray therapy is generally well tolerated. However, as with all medical treatments, there are some potential side effects, which may include:
- Mild skin redness or irritation at the treatment site, to more sunburn effects in some patients
- Temporary dryness or peeling of the skin
- Very rare risk of pigmentation changes or delayed hair thinning in the treated area.
These effects are typically short-lived and self-resolving. Your treating doctor will discuss all risks during your consultation.