Photodynamic therapy, or PDT, uses blue light and photosensitizing drugs together to treat various skin conditions. It is an advanced technology used to effectively get rid of age spots and acne.
PDT with blue light is gaining popularity as a way to improve the texture of skin by addressing acne and scars. The therapy was originally developed for treating skin cancer, and over time, researchers found applications for it in various cosmetic treatments.
PDT with Blue Light for Acne
If you are troubled by acne, PDT can be very beneficial for you. If you have acne scars on your skin, you can also use PDT to lighten or remove them.
We will begin treatment by first applying a photosensitizing solution on your skin. The photosensitizing solution contains a substance like aminolevulinic acid (ALA) that is naturally found in human bodies.
If we are using an ALA-based solution for your acne treatment, you will need to wait for 15 minutes to an hour for the solution to soak in. The actual time will depend on your skin’s condition.
After your skin is ready for phototherapy, it will then be exposed to the blue light for around 10 minutes.
PDT is very useful for treating hidradenitis suppurativa, which is an extremely severe type of acne. The condition may require regular PDT sessions to treat this condition.
For other forms of acne, you can see remarkable improvements after a few sessions of PDT that are scheduled a few weeks apart. You will be able to see the full results of the treatment a few weeks after your last PDT session. You may require additional sessions once or twice a year after treatment to maintain your skin’s new healthy texture.
Benefits
PDT is effective for acne that has acquired resistance to antibiotics. It is effective for treating mild to severe forms of acne. We will adjust the treatment according to the severity of the acne on the skin.
It is a non-invasive and painless treatment. You may feel a bit of discomfort at the start, but the treatment is very tolerable for even people with sensitive skin. PDT can also target specific areas precisely, thereby leaving other skin areas unaffected.
You can resume your normal daily routine after your PDT session. You won’t need to refrain from heavy physical work or experience any downtime.
Post-Treatment Care
After a PDT treatment, your skin will be sensitive to light. It will be necessary to avoid excessive exposure to natural and artificial light for two to three days after each PDT session. If you can’t avoid going out during this time, schedule your session accordingly.
Make an Appointment for a Consultation
You can finally get the treatment you need for your acne and acne scars. Contact our office to schedule your photodynamic blue light therapy consultation. Dr. David Kriegel, a skilled and experienced dermatologic surgeon with numerous satisfied patients, will be happy to meet with you and discuss the treatment in detail. Ready to finally have clearer smoother skin?
