Photodynamic Therapy

If you have more serious skin problems and you'd like to intensify your treatment, there is a way to "boost" other treatment methods with photodynamic therapy. This procedure allows you to target your bad skin cells with a photosensitizing compound, leaving your good cells intact.

How does it work?

Basically, we apply a photosensitizing compound (Levulan) to your skin before your treatment. The compound is absorbed by your abnormal skin cells, allowing the laser to penetrate and destroy them without harming your normal cells.

Can anyone use it?

We recommend photo facial for clients with actinic keratoses, moderate to severe acne and/or rosacea, or moderate to extensive sun damage and age spots.

And what about results?

Results depend on the condition being treated. Acne and rosacea can be chronic conditions; therefore, maintenance treatments may be necessary to remain in remission.

Will I need more than one treatment?

Generally, 3-6 treatments are required for optimal results.

Can it be used with other procedures?

That's usually how it works. Depending on the area being treated, microdermabrasion will be performed on the skin first. Then, Levulan will be applied and allowed to incubate for a specified amount of time. After that, the Levulan will be washed off with soap and water, and a laser treatment will follow. Because your skin will be very sensitive to the sun, we always apply sun block after the procedure.

How long will my skin be sensitive to sunlight?

About 48 hours. It's extremely important to stay out of the sunlight for this period of time, and an intense sun block with zinc oxide and SPF of 30 or higher should be worn even in the shade and in your car.

Any other side effects?

The majority of clients undergoing a photo facial have minimal discomfort with no adverse effects or very mild redness and peeling. About one quarter of clients will have redness and peeling with some discomfort that lasts for 2-3 days. This looks and feels similar to a sunburn. A very slight number of clients can have extreme redness, peeling, pustules and/or blisters as well as significant pain that can last for 5-10 days.

So it's not for everyone?

The staff will tell you if you're a good candidate for a photo facial. But, in general, if you are pregnant, have been on Accutane within 3 months, or have an active cold sore you should not have this procedure. If you are tan or have recently been exposed to the sun in the area you are having treated, you may be more susceptible to potential side effects, such as blisters or crusting. Your treatment may need to be reduced in intensity or postponed until the tan fades. You should not be treated with Levulan if you have skin sensitivity to blue light, porphyria (a disorder of the metabolism that can lead to sensitivity to light) or allergies to chemicals called porphyrins.