Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a breakthrough dermatologic treatment that has been highly successful in the treatment of actinic keratoses, mild to moderate acne, and other skin conditions. Whether you have tried other treatments in the past with limited success or are treating your condition for the first time, photodynamic therapy may be just the right treatment for you.

This innovative therapy is a two-step process. First, the affected areas are treated with a topical solution called aminolevulinic acid (ALA). This medication is left on for approximately 15 minutes. Then, the patient is exposed to a light known as the Blue-U for 6 minutes. The Blue-U uses a specific non-damaging wavelength that when combined with ALA destroys certain precancerous lesions and the bacteria associated with acne.

This therapy requires multiple treatments which are performed every 2-4 weeks. Thus far the only reported side effects are minor stinging, burning, redness, swelling and/or itching which should subside within 24 hours.

PDT patients must avoid exposure to direct sunlight or bright indoor light for a period of 48 hours after treatment. All patients treated with the Blue-U must wear sunscreen with an SPF 20 or above on the treated areas for at least 48 hours post-treatment. It is also recommended that you cover the treatment areas with protective clothing (e.g. a hat or scarf) and stay in the shade if possible.

This procedure provides a non-invasive method for targeting inflammatory and pre-cancerous lesions on the face. Recent studies show between 68-86% improvement using Photodynamic Therapy with a high patient satisfaction rating.

Call today for more information on this treatment.