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Acne results from the obstruction and inflammation of the sebaceous
glands, and it affects 80% of the human population. Acne typically
begins in adolescence with hormonal changes. However, there are many
older individuals who suffer from “adult acne”.
There are several different presentations of acne ranging from
comedonal (blackheads and whiteheads), papular, pustular, and cystic
acne. In many cases, many of these presentations of acne can be present
on an individual simultaneously.
Prior to Photodynamic Acne Treatment, the best available treatment
option for cystic acne was Accutane. However, with Accutane there are
many systemic side effects including birth defects, liver abnormalities,
mood depression, and virtually all patients get dryness and night vision
changes. PDT Acne Treatment provides a viable alternative for all types
of acne treatments.
Photodynamic Acne Treatment is done as follows: The Levulan is
applied to your skin and let on for 30-60 minutes. Levulan is a clear
solution and painless. Levulan is then activated with a specific
wavelength of light. This takes about 10 minutes. The Levulan targets
active cells. Acne sebaceous glands are active cells.
These cells preferentially absorb Levulan, and these cells are
targeted by Levulan once it is activated; hence the term, photodynamic
therapy. The Levulan will also target sebaceous hyperplasia (which are
those small (1 -3 mm), benign bumps on your skin) and the papules of
acne rosacea. Skin oiliness is decreased, and the appearance of pores is
minimized. The entire skin texture improves following a Photodynamic
Acne Treatment.
The “downside” of Photodynamic Treatment (PDT) is that you will be
red and have some skin peeling (and crusting it you have skin cancers)
for several days after the treatment. Usually, the first 1-2 days are
the worst. We advise remaining indoors the day following your treatment
to avoid sun exposure, as you are photosensitive for about 24 hours
after PDT.
The advantages of Photodynamic Treatment (PDT) are rapid treatment of
acne lesions all over face without scarring or surgical excision. The
skin appears refreshed and younger following these treatments. We advise
2-3 treatments at 2-3 week intervals to obtain optimal results. There
are no systemic side effects. Pregnant women should not undergo this
procedure.
You can use your topical acne lotions in between Levulan treatments
once redness has subsided.
FREE CONSULTATION FOR ALL COSMETIC PROCEDURES
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