Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy treats a range of conditions including:

- Non-Hyperkeratotic keratoses
- Seborrheic keratoses
- Cystic acne, acne vulgaris and generally oily skin
- Rosascea
- Psoriasis
- Hypertrophic lesions
- Sebaceous gland hyperplasia
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Warts
- Uneven skin tone
- Large pores
- Fine Lines

The Use of PDT

Photodynamic therapy is characterized by the application of a product, called 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA), and its interaction within cells with oxygen and light.

The 5-ALA is applied to the skin surface, where it undergoes a reaction in the cells. This reaction produces a compound called Protoporphyrin IX, a photosensitiser. This photosensitiser then works only within the damaged cells, when light of a specific wavelength is applied. In other words, ALA causes the skin cells to become more sensitive and when a certain type of light is applied it makes them slough off and die. After these damaged cells have been destroyed, new, healthy cells begin to form.

Most of the damaged cells come from bad UV light, or sun damage. Prolonged periods in the sunlight with no protection can lead to uneven, blotchy skin. If left untreated, these “sun spots” can have far more dangerous repercussions.

Though there are obvious cosmetic benefits to the use of PDT, this treatment also holds long term health benefits. There are currently many practitioners worldwide that encourage the use of PDT, not only as a cosmetic procedure, but as an annual preventative measure to treat and inhibit further sun damage.