Photodynamic Therapy for Acne Treatment
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Acne Treatment is a state-of-the-art skin treatment that uses a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan® in combination with a BLU-U® Light or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy.
The two-step Photodynamic Therapy offers significant improvement in the treatment of certain types of skin conditions such as:
- Active Acne
- Acne Rosacea
- Actinic Keratosis
- Moderate to Severe Cystic Acne
- Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Learn More About Photodynamic Therapy for Acne:
Photodynamic Therapy Acne Treatment
Photodynamic Therapy Acne Treatment begins by first cleaning the skin with an acetone solution. The acetone solution enhances the absorption of the Levulan, an FDA-approved topical photosensitizing agent, which is left on the skin for 30 - 90 minutes before being activated with either the BLU-U Light or Intense Pulsed Light.
Once the BLU-U Light or Intense Pulsed Light therapy is complete, the skin may appear slightly reddish with some mild swelling, which will dissipate in a day or two. Most people feel comfortable going back to their normal activities immediately following a Photodynamic Therapy Acne Treatment. However, it is recommended that direct exposure to the sun be avoided for 36 hours due to increased photosensitivity.
Photodynamic Therapy Improves:
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles
- Skin Tone and Texture
- Enlarged Pores
- Oil Production
- UV Damage
Most individuals see dramatic improvement in skin tone and texture after just one Photodynamic Therapy Acne Treatment, however the number of treatments will be determined by the condition and area being treated. For maximum improvement of acne, pre-cancerous sun damage, skin tone and texture, usually a series of three treatments 2 - 4 weeks apart is the most effective.
FAQ's: Photodynamic Therapy for Acne Treatment
What is Levulan?
Levulan or Aminolevulinic acid is a naturally occurring, photosensitizing substance that is found in the body. Levulan has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of actinic keratosis, or pre-cancerous skin lesions.
Levulan is activated by Intense Pulsed Light or BLU-U Light therapy to improve the appearance of acne and reduce acne rosacea, acne vulgaris, sebaceous hyperplasia, decrease oiliness of the skin and skin tone and texture minimizing pore size.
What is the difference between the BLU-U Light and Intense Pulsed Light?
The BLU-U® Light is not a laser treatment; it emits a cool, visible blue light that targets the acne causing p. acnes bacteria. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is especially effective in treating active acne when used with the BLU-U Light because of the light’s ability to target and eliminate the acne causing bacteria.
Intense Pulsed Light is laser light and pulsed light that is directed at the skin. The light passes through the epidermis and penetrates into the dermis. Specific settings are selected for each acne care photodynamic skin therapy to maximize improvement.
The type of light used to activate the Levulan may be determined by the type of skin condition being treated.
What are the alternative treatments to Acne Skin Care Photodynamic Therapy?
The Skin Center Medical Spa offers the following acne skin care treatments:
Schedule a Free Consultation:
- The Skin Center Medical Spa Pittsburgh, PA 1-800-429-1151
- The Skin Center Medical Spa Columbus, OH 614-939-1188
- Not all procedures are available in every location. Please call for more information.
- Schedule online now
- Find a location near you
