Photodynamic Therapy

An exciting new breakthrough for the treatment of sun-damage, acne, and even pre-cancerous skin changes, photodynamic therapy uses a topically applied drug, called Levulan (5-aminolevulinic acid), which is then activated by an intense pulse of light. This photodynamic therapy (PDT) enhances the light treatments for actinic keratoses and, acne, sun damaged skin.

A liquid medication (a photosensitizer) is applied topically 30 to 60 minutes before Laser and/or Light treatments. It is absorbed by the target cells to enhance the effects of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Foto-Facial™ and Blu-U Light treatments. Dramatic results are being achieved with active acne, superficial skin lesions such as actinic keratosis (sun/age spots), red and brown pigment changes, rossacea, and oily skin, pore size and texture changes.

Acne treatments using Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is the most recent advance in acne therapy. Aesthetique was one of the first clinics in DFW to offer this revolutionary treatment. We have been getting exciting results treating men and women of all ages. Photodynamic acne treatment involves the application of a photosensitizing agent (5-aminolevulinic acid), which is then activated with blue-light. This results in dramatic improvement in moderate to severe cystic acne.

This treatment program involves four mechanisms of action:

• Blue-light kills p.acnes, the principle bacteria causing acne eruptions
• The Levulan® treatment shuts down the sebaceous glands in the skin
• Levulan® exfoliates the skin to unclog pores
• The peel that results from the photodynamic therapy results in a significant improvement in acne scarring

Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy can even work in patients who have failed Accutane®. Accutane® also treats the sebaceous gland, but has fairly toxic side effects. Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy is a very safe alternative that achieves dramatic results in 4 – 6 weeks. It generally involves 2 – 4 treatments to achieve satisfactory results