New year, new skin! One fantastic way to improve skin includes a PDT which stands for photodynamic therapy. This treatment is often recommended in patients with acne, actinic keratoses (precancers), or those just wanting to see an overall skin improvement.
The procedure includes a two-part treatment that incorporates a chemical photosensitizer along with light activation. In our office, we use the chemical AMELUZ® (aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride) topical gel, 10%. AMELUZ® incubates on the skin, targeting sebaceous glands. Overactive sebaceous glands can lead to cystic acne, and precancers. After 2 hours of incubation, patients then undergo a multiple laser rejuvenation session. This is a series of 3 lasers used to activate the chemical and help with vessels, brown spots and collagen. Lastly, we further activate the chemical with red light or red and blue light for up to 20 minutes.
The winter months are a great time to have this procedure because there is a bit of downtime. We ask patients to bring a wide brim hat and scarf to their appointment to help limit any sun exposure on the ride home. For the first 48 hours post-procedure, patients should take cover in a dark room, as the chemical can still cause light sensitivity. Afterwards, redness, swelling, and peeling can occur for 10 days to two weeks. Post care instructions are provided, but bleach soaks and CeraVe Healing Ointment are to be done several times a day. And of course, with all procedures, we recommend a high-percentage, mineral based sunscreen.
We are offering a special on the PDT for the month of February for $750, originally $850.
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