PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY"

The purpose of activating the ALA 20% is to reduce precancerous skin lesions. The treatment may also additionally help to improve the appearance of the skin and other signs of photoaging, decrease acne & rosacea, reduces sebaceous hyperplasia, decrease oiliness of the skin, and improve texture/smoothness by minimizing pore size. The use of ALA 20% for improvement of skin conditions other than actinic keratosis is considered 'off-label' and is not routinely offered at our clinics.

This procedure requires an initial consultation with a qualified clinician. Clinical photographs will be taken prior to each treatment session to monitor progress. ALA 20% will be applied to the skin, followed by an incubation period of 3–4 hours, or as recommended by the doctor. The treatment area will then be exposed to a specific wavelength of light to activate the ALA. Due to increased photosensitivity, it is essential to avoid direct sunlight for 48 hours after the procedure.

Any sun exposure — including indirect sunlight — during this period may heighten the risk of side effects such as swelling, burning, redness, darkening of skin tone, peeling and discomfort. When leaving the clinic, it is strongly recommended that you protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a scarf covering your face. The peeling may last many days, and the redness for one week. The greater the number of pre-cancers on your skin the more exuberant these reactions will be. 

The recommendations, based on many studies and thousands of patients treated, are 1-2 treatments for AK’s (actinic keratosis) and 2-4 treatments for acne. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is not a definitive cure for actinic keratoses, and as with all medical treatments, outcomes can vary. While every effort is made to achieve the best possible results, no guarantees can be provided. While some individuals have fabulous results, it is possible that these treatments will not work for you. Alternative treatments may include topical therapies, oral medications, cryosurgery, or excisional surgery.