PHOTODYNAMIC SKIN THERAPY WITH LEVULAN
 Our IPL/Photofacial page reviews all of the advantages of intense pulse light therapy known as photorejuvenation. As step beyond this is the use of photodynamic therapy in conjunction with the intense pulse light. The regimen of Photodynamic Therapy involves using 5-aminolevuinic acid (Levulan) in conjunction with intense pulse light. Levulan is a topically applied agent that is clear and colorless. This agent makes any cell photosensitive and is taken up more by cells which have rapid turnover. When light is applied to the face after application of Levulan the photosensitive cells react. Initially there is redness and some mild swelling but this is followed by flaking and a light sloughing in the next few days, leaving the patient with a smooth and improved complexion. One treatment of Levulan with the IPL is considered to be equal to five treatments of the IPL alone in removing and repairing photodamaged skin. The only inconvenience with this therapy is the necessity of staying out of any direct or indirect sunlight for the next 48 hours. This also include fluorescent lights such as these in the office setting or the grocery store. Any excess exposure to light in the first 24 hours can result in a deeper “photo burn”.
This treatment was initially approved for the treatment of spot actinic keratosis, but now ALA/PDT has now been found to be extremely useful in the preemptive treatment of all of the subcliniclal actinic keratosis at the same time. This treatment therefore provides a clean slate so that it prevents further actinic keratosis.
About 30% of the patients require one treatment, 30% require two and 30% require three. Results from this treatment can last up to two years or more.
We find the best protocol involves having the patient start with a microdermabrasion. This is followed by an acetone scrub and then the application of the Levulan. The optimum time for keeping the Levulan on appears to be one hour. Any longer increases the pain in the procedure and any less decreases its efficacy.
PDT with Levulan treats the following conditions:
- Actinic Keratosis
- Sun-damage, fine lines, uneven, blotchy skin tone
- Acne
Photodynamic Skin Therapy Before and After Photos
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| Blue Light Photodynamic
RX patient, pre-treatment |
Patient right after treatment |
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| 1 week post treatment |
3 weeks post treatment |
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