It’s probably one of the best-kept secrets in aesthetic medicine, largely because it’s a medical treatment, not just a cosmetic tool. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light treatment designed to help treat inflammatory acne, sebaceous hyperplasia (enlarged sebaceous glands on the forehead or cheeks that appear as small, yellow bumps) and even actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions). But this non-invasive light treatment is capable of improving skin in so many other exciting ways!
Here’s a closer look at how photodynamic therapy works and may help you achieve your complexion goals this winter!
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How It Works
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a photosensitizing agent (aminolevulinic acid or ALA) and a light source (Blu-U). During your treatment, you will relax while we apply ALA to your skin. You’ll then need to rest comfortably for 90 to 200 minutes to allow the ALA to incubate and give your precancerous skin cells or acne-causing bacteria time to absorb the agent.
Once absorption takes place, a photochemical reaction occurs, converting ALA into a light-sensitive agent. Essentially, this means the ALA has turned your target cells into little light-activated time bombs, which will be destroyed when they encounter Blu-U light.
Once your target cells are ready, we apply Blu-U light to your treatment area for 16 minutes and 40 seconds, activating the medication to destroy your precancerous cells and bacteria.
Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy helps reduce sun damage and prevents skin cancer by eliminating precancerous cells (as discussed in a related blog post). What many people don’t realize, however, is this non-invasive light treatment provides several other cosmetic benefits.
Some of the additional benefits of photodynamic therapy include:
- Reduced oiliness
- Smaller pore size
- Improved rosacea (in select cases)
- Softer, smoother skin texture
- Reduced sun damage
After a series of treatments, your skin will not only look healthier, but it will also be dramatically healthier from the inside out!
Is Blue Light Therapy Safe?
While side effects may occur with any laser or light-based treatment, Blu-U is considered a safe treatment. Possible minor side effects may include temporary dry skin, itchiness, irritation, stinging, and changes in skin color. It’s essential to visit an experienced provider to ensure that your treatment is administered safely and correctly.
What Skin Treatment Is Right for You?
During your personal consultation, we’ll help you devise a regimen customized to your unique skin care needs and goals. A series of treatments will help you achieve optimal results. To learn more about PDT, please call (541) 200-2777 or complete our consultation request form online today!
