Photodynamic Therapy

There are many skin care treatments on the market for skin rejuvenation. One treatment that is not available in most medi spas, provides superior results, is less invasive and is a non surgical treatment, is the Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). This rejuvenation treatment is excellent, has minimal downtime and is used in conjunction with your regular skin care.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the use of a topical medication called 5- aminolevulinic acid (ALA) activated by a light source. ALA has significant promise in improving the clinical and cosmetic outcomes in patients with a variety of skin conditions, such as:

Sun damage

Precancerous skin growths (Aktinic Keratosis)

Rosacea

Acne and non pitted acne scarring

Oily skin and enlarged pores

Wrinkles, skin laxity, age spots, brown spots, dull skin, texture and tone

How it works and the prodedure:

The ALA penetrates abnormal skin cells but not normal cells and is activated by either a red or blue light. The acid applied with the light activation works by attacking the abnormal skin cells while preserving the surrounding normal skin tissues. The PDT therapy is not painful, only a slight stinging discomfort is to be expected during the treatment. The treatment is administered in the following 4 steps:

1. Thorough cleansing and degreasing of the skin

2. Application of the aminolevulinic acid

3. Incubation period

4. Light activation

Post Procedure:

Redness, swelling and tingling sensations may occur for one to two days post treatment followed by skin peeling for another two to three days. These symptoms can be managed with proper care and sun protection. Patients need to avoid sun exposure and intense fluorescent light for two days post treatment.

Who is not a good candidate?

Patients taking any type of photosensitive medications.

Patients sensitive to light.

Darker skinned individuals.

Patients that can not stay out of the sun for the required 48 hours post treatment.

Side effects:

The possible side effects of PDT include (but are not limited to) burning, sun burn reaction, skin discoloration, skin redness, prominent tiny blood vessels (telangiectasia), pain, cold-sore activation, blisters, scabs, scarring, keloids (raised, thick scars), cosmetic disfigurement, skin discoloration, eye swelling, prolonged sun sensitivity, and precancer or cancer recurrence.

How many treatments will I need?

Each individual will have specialized needs and different degrees of damage. On average, 2-3 treatments at 4-6 weeks intervals can be expected for desired results.

Cost:

A special package price of three treatments may be discussed at your complimentary consultation.

Additional non surgical treatment services that compliment this procedure for maintenance include: Botox, Fillers, microdermabrasion, chemical peel, facials, and medical grade skin care products.