Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Skin rejuvenation and sun damage treatment

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) utilizes light therapy to treat several skin conditions, including acne, rosacea, and actinic keratosis. A photosensitizing drug is used in combination with a light source that causes it to react. This destroys the targeted skin cells and allows healthy cells to grow back in their place. Photodynamic therapy results in improved skin tone, smoother skin texture, reduced appearance of pores, and clinically proven reduction in sun-damaged cells.

PDT can reduce the appearance of acne and diminish the redness of rosacea. It can also treat pre-cancerous lesions that may turn into squamous cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer, if left untreated.

After treatment, while the PDT medicine is still active, it is important that patients wear sunscreen and avoid sun exposure for the first 48 hours. There may be mild skin redness or peeling, but patients typically can go about their daily activities.

Damaged caused by exposure to the sun can take years to appear on the face. In addition to wearing sunscreen and taking other protective measures against sun damage, patients can use photodynamic therapy or laser skin resurfacing to treat damage and promote the growth of healthy skin cells.

Dr. Haven specializes in light and laser treatments, and can help patients choose the best treatment options for their specific type of skin condition or sun damage.