Photodynamic Therapy
WHAT IS PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a procedure that uses a photosensitizing, topically applied drug (aminolevulinic acid or ALA) plus light therapy (blue light) to target pre-cancerous skin lesions (actinic keratoses), sun damaged skin, and acne. PDT is best used to clear the skin of actinic keratoses when numerous such lesions are present on the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, arms/hands, or lower legs. Sun damage, fine lines and blotchy discoloration are also improved with this treatment and it has the unique ability to minimize pores and reduce oil glands, effectively treating stubborn acne, rosacea, and even acne scarring.For best results, typically a series of 2-3 treatments, 4-6 weeks apart are necessary.
WHAT TO EXPECT PRIOR TO YOUR PDT APPOINTMENT?
Prior to your scheduled PDT appointment, you will be given verbal and written instructions on what to do to prepare for the treatment. We may also give you topical medications to use at home to prep the skin for the PDT. We ask that you bring a hat or other appropriate sun-protective clothing to your appointment as your skin will be sensitive to all light for the 48 hours following the treatment. It is also good to bring a book, snack, and music or books-on-tape plus headphones to keep yourself occupied while you wait in our office.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR PDT APPOINTMENT?
At the time of your appointment a provider will thoroughly cleanse the skin and perform an acetone scrub to prepare the skin for the application of the ALA. Sometimes thicker pre-cancerous lesions will be curetted off to maximize the effect of the PDT. The ALA liquid solution will then be applied to the entire skin area that has been designated for treatment. You will next incubate for about 15 minutes to 3 hours, depending on your condition and the sites to be treated. After this incubation period, your skin will be exposed to the blue light, which will activate the ALA. The amount of light exposure time will also vary depending on the treatment protocol your provider chooses, typically between 16-60 minutes. During the light exposure, you may experience some burning discomfort, which can be lessened by the use of fans. Following the treatment, we will wash off the ALA and apply a thick moisturizer and zinc oxide-based sunscreen.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR PDT PROCEDURE?
After the PDT procedure, the skin that has been treated will be extremely light sensitive for 48 hours, until the topical medication has been completely metabolized. Hats and sun-protective clothing, a zinc oxide-based sunscreen, and light avoidance are required to protect the skin during that time. You should expect some redness, peeling, and mild discomfort over the ensuing 3 days.Occasionally there can be a burning discomfort for 24 hours and more prolonged peeling and redness for 1-2 weeks. We will provide you with written instructions on how to take care of your skin at home.
