Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a special treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan (5- aminolevulinic acid or ALA) activated with the correct wavelength of light. This is also known as “ALA/PDT treatment”. These treatments remove sun damaged pre-cancerous zones and spots called actinic keratosis. Sun damage, fine lines, and blotchy pigmentation are also improved because of the positive effect of Levulan and the light treatment. ALA/PDT treatment also has the unique ability to minimize pores and reduce oil glands, effectively treating stubborn acne vulgaris, acne rosacea, and improve the appearance of some acne scars.
How much improvement can I expect?
Patients with severe sun damaged skin manifested by actinic keratosis, texture, and tone changes including mottled pigmentation and skin laxity may see excellent results.
You may also see improvement of large pores and pitted acne scars. Active acne can improve dramatically.
How many treatments will it take to see the “best results”?
To achieve maximum improvement of pre-cancerous (actinic keratosis) sun damage, skin tone and texture, a series of 2-3 treatments 2-4 weeks apart is most effective. Some patients with just actinic keratosis are happy with just one treatment. More treatments can be done at periodic intervals in the future to maintain the rejuvenated appearance of the skin.
What are the disadvantages?
Following PDT, the treated areas can appear red with some peeling for 2-7 days. Some patients have an exuberant response to PDT, and experience marked redness of their skin. Temporary swelling of the lips and around your eyes can occur for a few days. Darker pigmented patches called liver spots can become temporarily darker and then peel off leaving normal skin. (This usually occurs over seven to ten days) Repeat treatments may be necessary as medicine is not an exact science.
What are the advantages?
Easier for patients than repeated topical liquid nitrogen, Efudex (5-FU), or Aldara because the side effects are minimal, rapid healing, and only 1-3 treatments are required.
The ALA/PDT treatment at our clinic is painless versus liquid nitrogen, 5-FU, or Aldara.
Reduced scarring and improved cosmetic outcome compared with cautery, surgery and Efudex. Liquid nitrogen can leave white spots on your skin.
Levulan improves the whole facial area treated creating one color, texture, and tone rather than just spot treating with liquid nitrogen, cautery, and surgery.
In summary, PDT matches the Ideal Treatment for actinic damage:
Well tolerated (essentially painless)
Non-invasive (no needles or surgery required)
Excellent cosmetic outcome (particularly in cosmetic sensitive areas of the face)
For patients in Los Angeles seeking the best dermatological care, PDT at our clinic provides advanced, safe, and highly effective treatment for sun damage, acne scars, and overall skin rejuvenation. Book an appointment today with our board-certified dermatologists to start your journey toward healthier, younger-looking skin.
FAQ’S
What skin conditions can PDT treat? PDT is used to treat actinic keratosis, sun damage, acne, rosacea, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and some acne scars.
Is photodynamic phototherapy painful? Most patients find PDT very tolerable. Mild warmth or tingling may occur during light activation, but it is generally painless.
How does PDT work? A topical medication (Levulan) is applied to the skin and activated by a specific light wavelength to target damaged and abnormal cells.
How long does a PDT session take? A typical PDT treatment takes about 1–2 hours, including medication application and light activation.
How many PDT treatments will I need? Most patients need 2–3 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Some patients with actinic keratosis may only need one treatment.
What results can I expect after PDT? Patients often see clearer skin, improved texture, reduced sun damage, smaller pores, and fewer acne breakouts.
When will I see results from PDT? Initial improvements are often visible within 1–2 weeks, with continued improvement over the following months.
Is there downtime after PDT treatment? Downtime is minimal. Redness and peeling may last from 2–7 days, depending on skin sensitivity.
Are there any side effects of PDT? Temporary redness, peeling, swelling, or darkened spots that flake off can occur but usually resolve within 7–10 days.
Is PDT safe for the face? Yes. PDT is especially effective and well-tolerated for sensitive facial areas with excellent cosmetic results.
Can PDT help with acne? Yes. PDT reduces oil gland activity and bacteria, making it effective for acne vulgaris and rosacea-related acne.
How does PDT compare to topical creams like Efudex or Aldara? PDT typically requires fewer treatments, causes less discomfort, and delivers better overall cosmetic results.
Will PDT leave scars? No. PDT is non-invasive and does not cause scarring when performed properly.
Do I need maintenance PDT treatments? Some patients benefit from periodic maintenance treatments to sustain results and prevent future sun damage.
Who is a good candidate for PDT in Los Angeles? Patients with sun damage, actinic keratosis, acne, or uneven skin tone who want a non-surgical, effective solution are ideal candidates.
Beverly Hills
9090 Burton Way Beverly Hills,
CA 90211
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