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photo dynamic therapy (PDT)

1) PDT for Treatment of Resistant Acne

2) Actinic Keratoses and Superficial Skin Cancer

Photo Dynamic Therapy

Photo Dynamic Therapy is a 2 step treatment for the targeted destruction of abnormal cells from acne, actinic keratosis and superficial skin cancer.

Photo Dynamic Therapy for Acne is used to treat mild to moderate cystic acne. A relatively new procedure, PhotoDynamic Therapy (often referred to as PDT), combines light and a special light-activated solution that targets and destroys acne activity.

Photodynamic Acne Treatment (PDT) is a process by which a photosensitizing agent (Levulan) is applied to your skin and is absorbed by the abnormal cells of acne and actinic keratosis.

Photo Source: RealSelf
Results may vary

Levulan is a solution that is activated by a specific wavelength of light. Levulan has been used extensively for the treatment of a variety of different skin conditions and is the chosen topical agent for PDT due to its effectiveness.

Photo Dynamic Therapy for Pre-cancers

PDT Acne Treatment provides a viable alternative to all types of acne treatment without having negative systemic effects. PDT Pilot Study for effectiveness on acne.

Historically the best available treatment option for resistant and cystic acne was Accutane. However, with Accutane there are many systemic* side effects including birth defects, liver abnormalities and other potential problems. The use of Accutane is highly regulated and patients choosing the treatment must follow rigorous monitoring under a government set of regulations called I Pledge.

Dr. Sikorski will prescribe Accutane or oral retinoic acid in generic RX in special cases with patients who understand and are willing to comply with the entire process of the program and required intermittent testing. *Systemic treatments are any medications that are taken orally, injected or infused that affect the entire body system.

Photodynamic Acne Treatment Procedure

Levulan, which is a clear painless solution, is applied to your skin and left on for 15-60 minutes. It is then activated with a specific wavelength of light which Dr. Sikorski determines is most effective for your problem level. This takes about 8-10 minutes.

The Levulan is absorbed by abnormally active cells of acne making the targeted acne cells more sensitive to the process. This combined interaction of the solution and the light is what gives rise to the term "photodynamic therapy."

When the light is turned on, the Levulan creates a reaction in which the acne cells are destroyed, or at least disabled, and the sebaceous gland activity is reduced to a more normal level.

The Levulan will also target sebaceous hyperplasia, those small (1-3mm), benign bumps under your skin, and the papules of acne rosacea.

An important part of the Acne PhotoDynamic Therapy treatment program is medical extraction of blackheads and acne pustules prior to the procedure. Extractions will expedite the improvement in your skin condition by cleaning the pores of hardened sebum and infected debris. Often your treatment will be immediately preceded by microdermabrasion to enhance the uptake of the Levulan in the skin cells.

PDT reduces skin oiliness and minimizes the appearance of pore size. The entire skin texture improves following a Photodynamic Acne Treatment.

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Advantages of PDT for Acne

• Rapid treatment of acne lesions all over the face
• No scarring
• No surgical excisions and
• No systemic side effects

The skin appears refreshed and younger following these treatments. We advise 2-3 treatments at 2 to 3 week intervals to obtain optimal results.

Expected Side Effects

The normal and expected side effects of Photodynamic treatment (PDT) are skin redness and some skin peeling (and crusting if you have superficial skin cancers) for several days after the treatment. Usually, the first 1-2 days are the worst.

Important! You must remain indoors the day following your treatment to avoid sun exposure, as you are photosensitive for about 48 hours after PDT. Sunscreen will not protect your skin from further reaction during this time. You may prefer to have your treatment at the end of the day to avoid light exposure.

What are the other potential side effects?

The most common side effects include scaling/crusting, hypo/hyper-pigmentation, itching, stinging, and/or burning, erythema (redness) and edema (swelling). These side effects are temporary and can easily be managed with simple application of vinegar water or a topical cream provided by Dr. Sikorski.

Other Acne Treatments

• Blu Light treatment for mild acne
• Accutane for cystic or difficult to treat acne
• Acne chemical peels such as beta peels
• Acne topical products
• Prescription topical and oral medications
• Acne Scarring

PDT for Actinic Keratosis and Superficial Skin Cancer

Actinic Keratoses and Superficial Skin Cancer

Photodynamic Therapy is a very effective method in treating Actinic Keratosis. The destruction and removal of actinic keratosis lesions and superficial skin cancers can be accomplished in one or several sessions.

Dr. Sikorski offers this option in addition to her signature AK Peel which utilizes TCA (tricholoroacetic acid) in the destruction of AK lesions – Tricholoraecetic acid is one of the more aggressive chemical peeling agents and is used for a number of skin problems. Other options are available depending upon the number of AK or cancerous lesions and their location on the body.

PDT works quickly in creating the action of abnormal tissue destruction and is identical to the procedures explained above with similar healing and side effects.

Advantages of PDT for treating AKs

• Well-tolerated by most skin types
• Quickly and simply performed in Dr. Sikorski’s office
• Nonsurgical
• Reduces risks of scarring

Learn more about Actinic Keratosis and all the various treatments available in Dr. Sikorski’s dermatology clinic.

Starting Point To Learn What's Right For You

Not sure where to start? Give us a call and chat with our patient coordinator Michelle. Call the office at (949) 448-0487 or Request a callback through this online form.

Cosmetic Consults with Dr. Sikorski are complimentary

• No fees
• No pressure
• No obligations - Book your consult today

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