Procedure: PhotoDynamic Therapy

Photos: Before & After Pictures

Photodynamic Therapy for Acne

Photodynamic Acne Therapy has become the gold standard of treating teenage, adult and cystic acne. It painlessly and safely clears up acne, eliminating the need for potentially dangerous acne medications.

What causes acne?

Acne is a common, chronic disease that is the result of multiple factors.

The main causes include overproduction of sebum or oil by overactive sebaceous glands in the skin, as well as an overgrowth of microbacteria, which results in infection and inflammation of the backed up oil gland, that at times can rupture deep in the skin resulting in scarring.

How does PDT clear up acne?

PDT utilizes Levulan, a potent photosensitizer that when activated by exposure to certain controlled wavelengths of light, shuts down the overactive sebaceous glands and eliminates bacterial overgrowth from the skin.

What should I expect when getting PDT Acne Therapy?

A typical PDT Acne Therapy starts with a thorough degreasing dermabrasion. This helps unclog pores, exfoliating the surface of the skin to prepare it for the application and absorption of Levulan into the abundant overactive sebaceous glands and skin bacteria. Levulan, a non-toxic clear liquid is then applied and left on for 45 - 60 minutes. After this incubation period a special wavelength light is then used to activate the Levulan in a controlled fashion, thereby destroying overactive sebaceous gland and unwanted skin bacteria.

After the treatment you will need to avoid the sun and bright lights for 24 hours. Your skin may be red and tight as in a sunburn for a few days.

After a few days you will notice your skin to be less oily and should notice progressive improvement in your acne.

It is usually recommended to have 2 - 4 treatments at 2 - 3 week intervals for best results.

With PDT it is now possible to have lasting clearing of acne in a safe, easily tolerated therapy without the risk of serious side effects, eliminating risk of psychosocial stress and physical scarring of the skin.

Photos: Before & After Pictures