Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in 535 Miller Ave
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Photodynamic therapy combines a topical photosensitizing solution, Levulan (aminolevulinic acid, or ALA), with a special BLU-U light to treat precancerous actinic keratoses and sun-damaged skin. At Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc., PDT is an FDA-approved, well-tolerated way to clear multiple precancers at once while also improving brown spots, redness, and overall skin quality.
What Is Photodynamic Therapy?
During PDT, ALA is applied to the skin, where it is absorbed by abnormal and sun-damaged cells. When the area is then exposed to the BLU-U light, the ALA is activated and selectively destroys the damaged cells while sparing healthy skin. PDT with ALA and BLU-U light is FDA-approved for treating actinic keratosis, the rough, scaly precancerous spots that appear on sun-exposed skin and can progress to squamous cell carcinoma.
Photodynamic skin rejuvenation is a related cosmetic procedure that reduces sun damage, facial vessels, and liver spots in addition to treating actinic keratoses. Both approaches can also improve acne and rosacea. Cosmetic uses such as improving brown spots, red spots, rosacea, and acne are off-label and not covered by insurance. BLU-U light alone is also an effective, FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for moderate acne that is safe and painless.
How Much Benefit Can I Expect?
Most patients see a 40% to 70% improvement after two to three PDT sessions. Treatment of actinic keratoses usually requires two to three sessions for best results.
How Is the Treatment Performed?
ALA is applied to the treatment area, followed by a topical anesthetic to reduce the mild discomfort of the procedure. The BLU-U light is then administered over the entire area. Additional treatments are spaced at one-month intervals. For patients with many actinic keratoses, PDT is often easier than repeated treatments with liquid nitrogen or topical creams such as Efudex or Aldara, and the risk of scarring is lower than with liquid nitrogen or surgery. The treatment is usually well tolerated with minimal discomfort.
Recovery and Aftercare
After PDT, the treated areas may appear red and swollen and can peel or crust. This rarely lasts longer than a week, although a small percentage of patients experience more prominent redness or swelling during the first week. Sun spots and actinic keratoses typically darken and then peel away, revealing normal-appearing skin. Repeated treatments may be necessary for more severe sun damage.
Because the skin is highly sensitive to light after ALA is applied, you must avoid direct sunlight and bright light sources for 40 hours after treatment. You’ll leave the office with a liberal amount of sunscreen and a hat. Exposure to light during this period can cause an exaggerated reaction with possible blistering.
Part of Comprehensive Skin Cancer Prevention
PDT is one of several tools we use to protect your skin from long-term sun damage. Regular skin cancer screenings, daily sunscreen, and prompt treatment of precancers all help lower your risk. View results in our PDT before and after gallery, and explore our other lasers and lights, including the Excel V laser and Fraxel Restore.
Photodynamic Therapy FAQs
What does photodynamic therapy treat?
PDT is FDA-approved to treat actinic keratoses, which are precancerous spots caused by sun damage. It can also improve brown spots, redness, rosacea, and acne as off-label cosmetic uses.
How many PDT sessions will I need?
Most patients need two to three sessions spaced about one month apart for the best results.
Does photodynamic therapy hurt?
Most patients feel mild stinging or warmth during the light exposure. A topical anesthetic helps keep treatment comfortable.
What is recovery like after PDT?
Expect redness, swelling, and peeling or crusting that usually resolves within about a week.
Why do I need to avoid light after PDT?
The ALA solution makes your skin very sensitive to light. Avoiding direct sunlight and bright light for 40 hours prevents a severe reaction and possible blistering.
Is PDT better than freezing actinic keratoses?
For patients with many actinic keratoses, PDT treats a larger area at once and carries a lower risk of scarring than repeated liquid nitrogen treatments.
Is photodynamic therapy covered by insurance?
PDT for actinic keratoses is often covered by insurance. Cosmetic uses for brown spots, redness, rosacea, and acne are off-label and not covered.
Treat Sun Damage Before It Progresses
Ask whether photodynamic therapy is right for you. Call Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc. at (415) 383-5475 or request an appointment online today.