PDT – Photodynamic Therapy

What Does PDT Involve?

The skin is degreased with a medical swab. The MLA (methyl aminolevulinate) cream is applied to the problem area at least 3 hours before the intense light treatment. The MLA is then absorbed by the inflamed, infected or sun damaged cells. The intense light treatment then causes a chemical reaction in the MLA that pro-actively attacks and destroys your problem cells.

PDT will help remove acne, sun damage, solar keratosis and some superficial basal cell carcinomas.

What Results Should I Expect?

PDT is very effective in reducing acne, with long term results. Acne patients who have PDT are much less likely to need future antibiotics and will have better skin all round. There will be dramatic improvements to the number of active acne lesions. Particular improvements are seen in those people who have cystic or inflammatory (red) type acne.

Who Is Not Suitable For Treatment?

PDT is not suitable for people who are breast feeding, pregnant, those with a history of keloid scarring and patients who have had Roaccutane in the past 6 months.

What Are The Side Effects?

Immediately following the treatment, the skin may appear pink. This will generally last only a few hours. Mild stinging and mild puffiness may occur, also for a few hours only. More intense reactions are rare.