AcnePilot header

Photodynamic Acne Treatment

Photodynamic therapy has been proven successful in the treatment of moderate to severe cystic acne. Photodynamic Acne Treatment (PDT) is a process by which a photosensitizing agent (Levulan®) is applied to your skin.

The article starts below...

Clearpores Is Our Highest Recommended Acne Treatment

clearpores systemKey Benefits:

Where to Buy Clearpores

Click here to read Clearpores reviews

before photodynamic therapy pictureafter photodynamic therapy picturePhotodynamic therapy has been proven successful in the treatment of moderate to severe cystic acne. Photodynamic Acne Treatment (PDT) is a process by which a photosensitizing agent (Levulan®) is applied to your skin. A Photosensitizing agent is a special solution applied to the skin that is activated by a specific wavelength of light, which “turns it on.” Levulan® has been used extensively for the treatment of a variety of different skin conditions. Levulan® is a 20% solution of Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA). ALA is a “natural” product found in all humans throughout the body. 

What are PDT’s advantages?

There are several advantages of photodynamic therapy over other forms of facial rejuvenation. For example, PDT is less destructive (and therefore less painful) than many of the deeper peels and lasers. There is also minimal recovery time. It is also a proven technique for the treatment of precancerous lesions. Thus, depending on the technique used, there may be an additional benefit of preventing skin cancer.

What are PDT’s disadvantages?

The disadvantage of photodynamic therapy is that it is new. Long-term side effects are unknown, and the benefits are not as well studied. For example, PDT is not known how long the benefits last.

Photodynamic acne treatment procedure picturePhotodynamic acne treatment procedure 

The Levulan®, which is a clear painless solution, is applied to your skin and left on for 15-60 minutes. It is then activated with a specific wavelength of light called BLU-U or Clear-Light. This takes about 8-10 minutes. 

The Levulan® is absorbed by active cells, making the targeted acne cells more sensitive to the light. This combined interaction of the solution and the light is what gives rise to the term "photodynamic therapy." The Levulan® will also target sebaceous hyperplasia (which are those small, 1-3 mm, benign bumps under your skin) and the papules of acne rosacea. An important part of the treatment program is medical extraction of blackheads and acne pustules. This procedure will expedite the improvement in your skin condition by cleaning the pores of hardened sebum and infected debris. The treatment reduces skin oiliness and minimizes the appearance of pore size. The entire skin texture improves following a photodynamic acne treatment.

How long does PDT take?

The length of a photodynamic therapy session is quite variable, depending on what is being treated. You should talk with your physician about your specific needs.

What will my skin feel like after PDT?

For the most intense PDT therapy available, there may be transient side effects such as burning, stinging, redness, and swelling that can last up to one week. However, many of the protocols in use are reportedly pain free with no recovery time.

How many PDT sessions will I need?

The number of photodynamic therapy treatments that have been used in clinical trials has ranged from one to three (over a period of three months). However, you and your physician will need to talk about your specific needs in deciding how many treatments you will need.

How long after a PDT before I can return to normal activities?

Usually, you can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

How much does PDT cost?

The cost is variable and depends on many different factors. You will have to discuss cost with your physician and individual insurance carrier.

Although PDT is a promising new therapy, you need to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives with your physician to decide if PDT is right for you.

Sponsor

ZENMED® Scar Treatment Kit

The scar treatment system is the quickest way to remove imperfections without the bother of salons, expensive prescriptions or reconstructive methods. Use only 2-3 times a week.
$59.99USD                

Click here for Top acne treatment products reviewed by our staff

Read more articles on Acne Treatments.

Rate this article:
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (4 votes, average: 4.75 out of 5)
Loading ... Loading ...
Send to friend Send to friend

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Acne Related articles

  • 6 Tips to Help Say Goodbye to Acne Forever
  • You don’t have to suffer from acne any more!
  • Using Retinoids To Treat Acne
  • Exfoliation versus ClearPores
  • Alternative acne treatments