The LevulanŽ is absorbed
by actively proliferating cells such as bacteria,
oil glands and sun damaged cells. The light source
used may be a visible blue light, intense pulsed
light or laser light. It activates the LevulanŽ
in the targeted cells which are then destroyed.
Bacteria are destroyed, oil glands shrink and sun
damaged cells peel away. Skin texture is improved,
pore size is reduced, and skin appears smoother,
brighter and healthier.
What conditions
can be treated?
- Sun
damage: face, neck, shoulders, back, chest, hands,
arms and legs
- Acne,
oily skin and enlarged pores
- Rosacea
- Keratosis
pilaris (tiny bumps on cheeks and the back of
arms)
How is PDT
used? The skin is cleansed and LevulanŽ
is applied and left on for 30 to 60 minutes. It
is then activated by a light source, usually the
Blu-UŽ, for a few minutes and then washed off. Three
to 5 treatments, 2 to 4 weeks apart are usually
required.
Is it uncomfortable?
There may be a feeling of warmth or occasionally
a mild stinging, but it is well tolerated.
What happens
after treatment? Patients are more sensitive
to the sun for 36 hours after treatment and must
avoid direct light. There may be mild swelling around
the eyes for 1 day and redness and peeling for about
7 to 10 days. Mild cleansers and moisturizers are
used until peeling stops. Sunscreen is mandatory.
If you are prone to facial cold sores, Dr. Gidon
will prescribe antiviral medication to prevent a
recurrence.
What are the
advantages of this treatment? Photorejuvenation
for sun damage is evident within a week of treatment,
with minimal discomfort. Precancerous spots that
are too small to be detected can be treated early.
Acne can be improved without taking oral medication.
Who should
not have this treatment? Patients who are
pregnant or nursing or who have sun sensitive skin
conditions such as lupus should not have this treatment.
When is the
Blu-UŽ light used without LevulanŽ? Since
the Blu-UŽ light destroys bacteria that aggravate
acne, mild to moderate acne can be improved with
just the light. Treatment involves sitting in front
of the light for a few minutes twice a week for
4 weeks. It is safe and painless and can be used
together with prescribed acne medication, light
chemical peels and facials.
Dr. Gidon can assess
your skin condition and formulate an individualized
treatment plan to rejuvenate your skin and keep
it healthy and beautiful.
