Huntington dermatology patient asks, “What is photodynamic (PDT) therapy?”

Home » Huntington dermatology patient asks, “What is photodynamic (PDT) therapy?”

The use of a topical agent combined with light therapy to treat certain skin conditions can be traced back more than 3000 years to ancient Indian and Egyptian sources. Research shows that these cultures applied plant or vegetable substances that caused photoreactions in the skin when exposed to sunlight.

Attractive woman with great skin

Modern use of photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is documented to the turn of the century and is credited to a German scientist named Hermann von Tappeiner. PDT was initially tested on skin carcinomas and is still used in such a manner today.

At the Dermatology and Cosmetic Laser Center, serving patients from Huntington, Syosset, Glen Cove, Northport, Oyster Bay, Dix Hills, Commack, and surrounding NY communities, Dr. Roger Koreen and our professional team believe in providing the most advanced and effective treatments for the best health and appearance of our patients’ skin.

What is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?

Our PDT technology includes the BLU-U Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator and Levulan and/or Kerastick, which are topical agents that contain aminolevulinic acid, a substance that is exists within the human body and encourages photosensitivity.

Photodynamic Therapy is a versatile, non-invasive, safe, and effective treatment for a number of skin concerns, such as:

  • Actinic keratosis – precancerous skin lesions
  • Wrinkles and fine lines
  • Acne and acne scarring
  • Oversized pores
  • Uneven pigmentation
  • Aging skin
  • Texture issues
  • Rosacea

Dr. Roger Koreen is a board-certified Medical Doctor (MD), specializing in advanced medical, cosmetic, and laser dermatology, as well as in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer. A Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, Dr. Koreen has been treating patients of all ages for nearly 25 years.

What is involved?

After a comprehensive consultation with a patient, Dr. Koreen and our clinicians develop a personalized plan of care. Depending upon the skin condition being treated, Dr. Koreen will recommend the appropriate photosensitizing medication, which will be applied to the skin and absorbed for 15 minutes to an hour. Blue light therapy precisely addresses targeted skin cells. Two to six sessions may be scheduled two to three weeks apart.

Appointments or consultations may be scheduled by calling our friendly and professional team at (631) 417-3300 today.


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Roger Koreen, M.D., F.A.A.D.

Roger Koreen, M.D., F.A.A.D.

Dr. Roger Koreen has dedicated nearly three decades to delivering a full range of dermatology services to over 90,000 patients. He received his medical training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine before going on to complete his residency at the world-renowned Johns Hopkins Medical Institute. As a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, as well as the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Dr. Koreen is committed to continuing education and training. In addition to his practice, Dr. Koreen is also a staff member at Huntington Hospital.

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