| | PDT lights up the skin – a medical breakthrough
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the latest medical breakthrough in the treatment of sun damaged skin, skin cancer, acne and other skin conditions.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) was developed in order to treat skin cancers and sunspots without the scarring effects of surgery. It was soon realized that PDT produced dramatic rejuvenation of the skin in addition to removal of skin cancers. The skin looked younger, less wrinkled and blemish free.
PDT is safe and has few side effects but it is important to wear sunscreen for 2 days after the treatment.
PDT is also very effective in the treatment of acne, and in some cases produces results comparable to RoAccutane therapy.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic Therapy is one of the newer techniques that uses a cream and light to treat sun damaged skin, skin cancers, aging, acne, and sun spots. It is non surgical, non invasive and produces excellent cosmetic results.
What is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment for a number of skin conditions such as sun spots, sun damage, aging, acne and skin cancer.
During the treatment a cream is applied to the skin for 1 hour and then the skin is exposed to either a Blue light or Pulsed light.
The cream is selectively taken up by the abnormal skin compared to surrounding normal skin. The cream is then activated by the light (Blue or Pulsed light) which in turn removes the abnormal cells, and allows normal skin to replace them.
What sort of cream is used?
A cream called 5 ALA is applied to the skin, which is converted to a porphyrin substance within abnormal calls of the skin. Porphyrin is activated by various light sources leading to the selective removal of abnormal cells.
The cream is safe, but it makes your skin sensitive to sunlight for 48 hours after the treatment.
Does the cream have side effects?
The cream is safe and does not lead to cancer. But it does make people sensitive to sunlight for 48 hours after treatment. This means that it is essential to wear sunscreen strictly for 48 hours after treatment.
What sort of light is used?
TALA and porphyrins are activated by many different light and laser sources. We commonly use Pulsed light (IPL) and Blu-U. These are not ultraviolet lights, so do not cause skin cancers. Light sources are not X rays. These light sources do not have harmful effects on the skin.
In fact Pulsed light (IPL) is used for skin rejuvenation, and for treating red veins and brown marks.
How Effective is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?
Photodynamic therapy is highly effective in treating sun spots, and some skin cancers with a cure rate of over 90%.
In the treatment of sun damage and aging, the cosmetic improvement is significant. Skin texture, colour and fine lines usually are substantially improved, and may disappear completely.
Acne can be successfully treated with monthly treatment of PDT. Even severe cases of acne can be successfully treated. In some patients the results are as good as RoAccutane therapy.
Does PDT hurt?
During PDT there is some burning discomfort. A cooling fan is used to minimize this discomfort.
Does PDT require an anesthetic?
No. PDT does not need an anesthetic. No hospitalisation is required.
What aftercare is needed after PDT?
• Sunscreen protection for 48 hours strictly is essential
• Moisturizer for peeling skin
• Regular makeup can be worn immediately after treatment.
Do I need time off work?
You may be red and swollen for a few days after treatment. There may also be some peeling of the skin. A few days off work are recommended.
Is PDT suitable for all skin colours?
PDT can be used in all skin types.
Does PDT cause scarring?
Scarring is not usually associated with PDT.
PDT has few side effects, these include:
- Sunburn with blisters. PDT makes the skin sensitive to sunlight for 48 hours after the treatment, so sunscreens are essential.
- Pigment change – rare
- Infection – rare
- Scarring – rare
What parts of the body can PDT be used on?
PDT can be used on all parts of the body, but the face is the commonest site.
How does PDT compare to other forms of treatment?
- <> Treatment of sunspots produces better results than liquid nitrogen (dry ice).
- Treatment of some skin cancers is close to the cure rate of surgery, but produces a much better cosmetic result.
- Treatment of acne is as good as conventional treatment in many cases and can produce equivalent results to Ro Accutane in some people. when used in conjunction with m'lis Acne treatments wonderful results can be achieved.
What age groups are suitable for PDT?
PDT can be used in all age groups.
If you require further information, pricing, or a no obligation consultation, please contact our practice manager Julie Dean via the email address link below. We look forward to further communication.
Aesthetica Melbourne
55 Claremont Street South Yarra 3141 Melbourne Victoria Australia.
Freecall 1800 062 181 Phone 03 9829 7777 Facsimile 03 99829 7766
email
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Aesthetica Sydney - Enhance Clinic
793 George Street Sydney NSW Australia.
Phone 1300 699 433 Facsimile 02 9212 2201
email
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Photo Dynamic Therapy