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Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an extremely effective way to treat a variety of dermatologic concerns. PDT can successfully treat acne, actinic keratosis and early skin cancers, sun damage, redness of the face, flushing, pigmentary problems, scars, enlarged sebaceous glands, warts and wrinkles!
Patients should plan to be in Dr. Isaac’s office for at least one and a half hours. Topical Aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is applied to a clean skin surface. The ALA needs to incubate on the skin for 30 minutes to one hour. Then, either blue light or laser light is delivered to the skin, which activates the ALA. PDT with blue light or laser kills acne bacteria and treats sebaceous glands (oil glands) that create active acne lesions. PDT is also extremely effective in treating precancerous lesions and signs of early skin cancer. In fact, PDT is being studied for treatments of internal cancers! Patients find that skin pigment discolorations, acne scarring, fine lines, large pores and skin surface irregularities are improved after treatment.
Immediately after each session, the skin may appear flushed, brown spots may be darker and tiny veins may be more visible. Sunburn like sensation will ensue over the next several days, mild exfoliation or peeling of the skin surface will occur leaving behind smoother, clearer, more rejuvenated skin (with less acne pimples and redness)! Several treatments spread 2 – 4 weeks apart will be recommended depending on the problem being treated.
Call MI-Skin Dermatology Center in Washington D.C. at (202) 393-SKIN (7546) for a consultation!