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Photodynamic Therapy
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About Photodynamic Therapy
Whether treating acne or sun damage, the process is very similar. The treatment utilizes a drug, called Levulan ALA, and a light source which inhibit the bacteria and oil glands in acne prone skin. In patients with sun damaged skin and precursors to skin cancer (actinic keratoses) the Levulan ALA is used to selectively destroy the atypical cells.
In both clinical settings Levulan is applied topically (directly on the skin) and allowed to incubate painlessly for 1 to 3 hours. A light or laser source is then used to “photo-activate” the Levulan ALA and thus directly affect the oil glands, bacteria or photo-damaged skin.
Depending on the severity of the condition, the number and strength of the required treatments will vary.
Photodynamic therapy achieves dramatic improvement in acne and is an excellent skin rejuvenating tool.
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