Photodynamic therapy is a treatment used to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin by reversing the signs of aging and sun damage. With this non-invasive treatment, it is possible to not only improve the look of the skin, but also to create better skin health.
We are able to treat a number of skin concerns with photodynamic therapy, including:
- Enlarged pores
- Poor texture
- Blotchy pigmentation
- Acne and acne scars
- Rosacea
- Precancerous lesions (actinic keratosis)
- Photoaging
- Fine lines
How photodynamic therapy works
One of the primary advantages of photodynamic therapy is that this treatment is able to address specific areas of concern through the precise application of Levulan® a photosensitizing medication. This medication is absorbed by actinic keratoses, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and damaged skin cells in the time it remains on the skin before the next step. Levulan® may be left on the skin for anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the problem we are treating.
After the application of the photosensitizing medication, we direct blue light to the skin. Upon contact, the special light destroys targeted cells, improving the tone and texture of the skin and reducing pore size.
Photodynamic Therapy by Dr. Roger Koreen
What are the benefits of photodynamic therapy?
It’s FDA approved for the treatment for pre-cancerous spots. A recent study showed that if someone who is prone to skin cancer if they do three treatments a year, they definitely get less skin cancer.
How is it used?
We usually use it to treat the whole face and at one time you are treating all the pre-cancerous cells in the face. Ones that you know of and ones that you don’t know of.
What else can it be used for?
It can also be used for certain cosmetic things such as:
- Sun damage skin on the face
- Brown spots on the face
- Acne
If you reside in or around the community of Huntington, NY and are considering photodynamic therapy, contact Dr. Roger Koreen today by calling (631) 417-3300.
What to expect
Upon the application of Levulan® medication, the skin may burn or sting slightly for just a few minutes. The application of light should cause no discomfort. Following treatment, the skin may be red and feel slightly sunburned. Mild swelling and peeling can also occur due to the destruction of damaged skin cells. If photodynamic therapy is used to treat broken capillaries or sun spots, darkening of the skin may occur before spots gradually fade.
During the first few days after treatment, it is essential that skin be protected from sun exposure. We encourage patients to develop healthy sun protection habits to maximize the benefits of photodynamic therapy and decrease the risk of further sun damage.
Optimal correction of sun damage, acne, or other dermatologic concerns may be best achieved with a number of treatments, ranging from two to six. Sessions are scheduled two to three weeks apart, with many people noticing a significant improvement after their initial two treatments.
Dr. Koreen and his experienced team can help you improve the look and feel of your skin. Contact Dermatology and Cosmetic Laser Center to see which services are best suited to your needs.
