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Stop the embarrassment of acne without messy creams, slow acting antibiotics, prescription medication, pain or interruption of your lifestyle. Finally, there is a safe and effective alternative to treating acne that also leaves your skin looking more youthful and rejuvenated. This clinical breakthrough has helped adults and teenagers win the battle against stubborn acne and has quickly become a frequently recommended alternative by dermatologists.
What Is Acne?
Acne is a disease involving the sebaceous glands of the skin and affects over 80% of adolescents and many adults. During puberty, our bodies produce large amounts of an oily substance called sebum. Sebum, when combined with excess skin debris, sticks together in our pores causing the pore to become clogged. Without effective treatment, these clogged pores can become red, infected, swollen and form unsightly pimples that can lead to scarring. Topical creams can irritate the skin and take months to work. Antibiotics can have multiple side effects and become less effective over time.
What is PhotoDynamic Therapy?
PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT), also known as ALA/PDT, is a treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan® (five-aminolevulinic acid or ALA) that is applied to your skin and then activated with the correct wavelength of light. These treatments remove sun damaged precancerous spots called Actinic Keratoses. Treatments also improve sundamaged skin, fine lines, blotchy pigmentation and rough skin patches. PhotoDynamic Therapy treatment has the unique ability to minimize pores and reduce oil glands, effectively treating stubborn acne vulgaris, acne, Rosacea and improving the appearance of some acne scars.
How much improvement can I expect?
You will see improvement after each treatment. People with severe sun damaged skin, Actinic Keratoses, rough skin patches, poor skin texture and uneven pigmentation may see excellent results. Treatment improves the appearance of large pores and some acne scars. Active acne can improve dramatically.
How many treatments will I need?
To achieve maximum improvement for sun damage, texture and skin tone, a series of three or more treatments performed two to four weeks apart is often recommended. Some skin conditions respond with a single treatment. Additional treatments can be performed as needed or to maintain your desired result.
How is the procedure performed?
First, the area being treated will be cleansed and properly prepared for treatment. In some cases, microdermabrasion or an exfoliating scrub may be performed. The Levulan® is applied evenly to the area and may be left on the skin for several hours. Once removed, a variety of techniques may be used to correct your skin including Pulsed Dye Laser, or Laser Skin Rejuvenation. In some cases, a topical anesthetic is applied for added comfort.
What are the side effects?
The treated area can appear red and you may experience some peeling for up to seven days following treatment. Mild swelling can occur around the lip or eye area. If swelling occurs it is usually temporary and will subside within a day or two. Sensitive skin may appear very red for the first couple of days. Pigmentation spots can become temporarily darker and then will peel off, leaving the skin smooth and even toned. You will be advised to stay out of the sun and to consistently use a sun block. You will be photosensitive for several days and must protect the treated area.
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