Photodynamic Therapy – For Dramatically More Beautiful Skin

What is photodynamic therapy?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a photosensitizing drug (a drug that becomes activated by light exposure) and a light source to activate the drug. Precancerous cells and certain types of cancer cells can also be treated with PDT.

PDT has three steps. First, a light-sensitizing drug (photosensitizer) is applied and left in place for a specific amount of time. Then the target tissue is exposed to a specific wavelength of light that activates the photosensitizing medication.

How does PDT work?

PDT works by directly injuring the targeted cells and tissues. It has a very high success rate of preserving normal skin without significant risks. After the treated areas have healed, they are re-examined to see if additional treatments are needed.

PDT has advantages over regular or traditional cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen) or burning, where only the visible pre-skin cancers are treated, potentially leaving hidden cancers behind. PDT allows an entire area of sun damage to be treated, thus reducing the chance that undetected pre-skin cancer cells will be left untreated.

Will PDT make me more sensitive to light?

PDT does cause a temporary sensitivity to light, including natural sunlight and some indoor lights. However, that diminishes with time, depending on both the photosensitizer drug and dosage used.

Topically applied aminolevulinic acid may cause skin sensitivity only on the treatment areas for approximately 24-72 hours; your Sylvana professionals will provide post-treatment guidance.

How is PDT used to treat the skin?

PDT using Levulan and a proprietary blue light is FDA approved for treating skin precancers called actinic keratosis (rough scaly spots generally on sun-exposed skin). PDT is also known as "Super Blue Light." or a "super photo facial" when the photosensitizer is used with an intense pulsed light or IPL machine. These treatments may help remove sun-damaged precancerous skin.

Sun damage, fine lines, and blotchy pigmentation may also be improved because of the positive effect of PDT. PDT also has been shown to help decrease the appearance of pores and reduce oil gland activity, effectively treating some stubborn acne, rosacea, and improving the appearance of some small superficial acne scars.

What are the side effects?

After treatment the most common side effects are:

• Burning/stinging, which may last up to 24 hours after your PDT treatment
• Redness and swelling which may last up to 72 hours
• Scaling/crusting which may last up to one week after your PDT treatment

You may apply moisturizers as needed. Always remember to use sunscreen and wear sun protective clothing to shield your skin from the sun's damaging rays.