Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an in-office procedure that uses a photosensitizing agent called Levulan (Aminolevulinic Acid 20%) along with a light source to help treat skin conditions such as actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions), sun damage, and acne. Levulan is applied to the skin and incubated for approximately 60-90 minutes where precancerous cells and inflammatory cells involved with acne absorb the medicine. Following incubation, the treated area is exposed to blue light which activates the medicine resulting in the destruction and improvement of precancerous cells and acne. Treatment also causes rejuvenation of sun damage resulting in smoother and more even skin.

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Most people experience successful results from PDT after 2 treatment sessions approximately 2-4 weeks apart. This procedure can sometimes be combined with other treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL), in order to maximize results and leave the skin healthy and beautiful. If you have sun-damaged skin or refractory acne, our physician can help determine if Photodynamic Therapy is an appropriate treatment option for you.