Photodynamic Therapy

Because the photo-sensitizer is preferentially absorbed by the acne lesions and the light source is directly targeted on the lesional tissue, PDT achieves dual selectivity, minimizing damage to adjacent healthy structures. It is mediated by oxygen-dependent photochemical reactions, resulting in the destruction of the acne lesion.

The purpose of this treatment is to initiate photochemical reactions, and not to heat or mechanically change tissue as seen in other dermatologic uses. Ultimately, Photodynamic Therapy is a very safe procedure that can provide patients with outstanding results with minimal downtime and risk. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov has more information on what Photodynamic Therapy can do.

For acne patients, it can reduce or eliminate the need for oral antibiotics, thus eliminating concerns for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This treatment can even help avoid the need for Accutane!

We also provide a variety of top professional skincare lines you can use daily at home to support the results of your treatment. Stop by our office any time for recommendations on the best home treatment program for you.

Treatment Guidelines

During your procedure:

• The area being treated will be prepped with Vibradermabrasion to exfoliate the skin,
  and then wiped with an acetone solution to strip the skin’s barrier so that the Levulan
  can penetrate more efficiently.
• Once the Levulan is applied you will incubate for 1 – 3 hours depending on your
  doctor’s recommendation.
• When your incubation period is over you will wash the Levulan off and your physician
  will begin the laser portion of the procedure. You will be treated with 1 – 2 lasers
  depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
• Your eyes will be protected.
• You will feel the sensation of heat (similar to grease “splattering” or rubber
  band “snapping” against your skin).
• Cold air is applied directly to the skin as it is being treated to help decrease sensation
  of heat.
• After the laser(s) you will lay under a combination of a Red & Blue Light for 15 minutes
  per area. You will feel the sensation of heat, similar to a sunburn, which may intensify
  during treatment.
• Your skin will be cooled with cold air as well as a cool mist during your treatment
  to minimize pain.

After your procedure:

• Moisturizer & a generous amount of sunscreen will be applied to treated area after
  your procedure.
• When you leave our office you will need to be shielded from the daylight as much as
  possible (hat, sunglasses, scarf, etc.) especially if you are driving yourself. If you have
  someone to drive you then we suggest you sit in the back seat with something covering
  your face.
• YOU MUST AVOID SUNLIGHT AND REMAIN INDOORS FOR THE REMAINDER OF
  THE DAY OF TREATMENT AND THE ENTIRE FOLLOWING DAY. This includes avoid
  sitting by a window, skylight, or even opening your front door.
• Sensation of heat/sunburn (will subside over the next few days). OK to take Tylenol or
  Ibuprofen.
• Redness & mild swelling will occur immediately after treatment. These symptoms
  typically peak at 48 – 72 hours, with the redness lasting up to a week. To help minimize
  swelling you can use ice packs and sleep with your head slightly elevated.
• Superficial peeling and/or crusting is normal & could last up to 1 week.
• If you are being treated for acne, you may experience purging which will resemble
  pimples or a bad breakout. Do not try and extract or “pop” them, they will subside over
  the next few days.
• NO RUBBING, PICKING OR WIPING THE TREATMENT AREA.
• Wash the treated area twice a day with a gentle cleanser. DO NOT use a washcloth or
  the Clarisonic to cleanse for one week.
• Apply moisturizer as often as needed to help with dryness.
• When you are able to go outside apply a sunscreen with Zinc Oxide &/or Titanium
  Dioxide. Protect the treated area from the sun both indoors & outdoors (hat, sunglasses,
  sunscreen).
• Medicine is not an exact science, and there can be no guarantees of
  your results. It is always a possibility that you may not get the desired result after one
  treatment. Additional treatments may be necessary to achieve optimal desired results.
• Follow any additional specific post treatment instructions from your physician.
• Follow up with your physician in ______ days/weeks.

Please contact our office if you have any questions or concerns at (858) 657-1002