Photodynamic Therapy

What is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?

A dynamic treatment for acne sufferers, Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) utilizes a blue light in tandem with medication in order to kill the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts. Completely painless and non-invasive, this procedure has allowed us great success in terms of clearing acne as well as improving the texture of the skin. Patients feel better and more confident about their complexion after even just one PDT treatment. PDT also helps to diminish the appearance of red and brown spots that may linger after an acne lesion disappears.

What Can I Expect from a PDT Treatment?

Using a blue light to activate a medication called 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), PDT significantly shrinks the skin’s oil producing glands. Thus, the amount of oil in each pore is drastically reduced. Acne-causing bacteria find it more difficult to thrive without this natural oil present. Beyond just shrinking these oil glands, PDT also targets the acne causing bacteria directly. The procedure is best used in tandem with other types of treatments as well as a specially designed skin care regimen.

How Many Treatments do I Need?

Photodynamic therapy for acne works best when patients receive three to five treatments spaced approximately 3-5 weeks apart. We highly recommend avoiding sun exposure for up to 48 hours post treatment. And patients with darker skin color want to be especially careful when it comes to staying out of the sun.

Has Photodynamic Therapy Been Successful?

Our acne patients have been very happy with the results of their PDT treatments. A painless procedure, we have also used photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat such problems as rosacea and actinic keratosis (scaly lesions caused by sun damage). Every patient is different, this is why we will consult with you to create an individualized treatment plan for dealing with your acne issues.