Photodynamic Therapy
Benefits/How It Works
Benefits:
For many men and women, photodynamic therapy may be an effective way to treat sun damage and acne in Victoria, British Columbia. The entire face, hands, and forearms can be treated using photodynamic therapy. This treatment allows for greater improvement than with spot treatment, and can be obtained with less downtime, particularly when compared to prescription home creams. Patients with acne who cannot take medications may benefit from this topical treatment.
For more information about photodynamic therapy in Victoria, BC for acne and sun damage treatment, please send us an email or call us at (250) 598-3300 or (877) 598-3380. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mark Lupin understands the significance of patient safety and comfort. His practice is dedicated to providing high-quality cosmetic medical care for patients on Vancouver Island.
How It Works:
Metvix™ cream is applied to the affected areas for up to three hours, followed by a few minutes of activation with the visible red light, Aktilite® or blue light, BLU-U®. Metvix™ contains a form of aminolevulenic acid, a natural substance normally found in our skin. Sun damaged areas absorb up to 20 times the amount of this natural substance compared to the normal. Sun damage spots clear once the treated areas are activated by the Akitlite or BLU-U® light systems. Acne bacteria produce a related substance, so the Metvix™ boosts that reaction, which leads to the reduction of these bacteria as well as the shrinking of oil glands to reduce acne.
Treatment/FAQ
Ideal For:
Patients with acne who do not wish to take pills. Patients with sun damage who wish more complete clearance of actinic keratosis with the shortest downtime.
How It Feels:
Some patients experience a mild tingling or stinging sensation.
Downtime:
Without Levulan® – no downtime. With Levulan®, 3 – 7 days of redness and possible crusting. Due to photosensitivity, patients are advised to avoid sunlight for 48 hours after each treatment.
Treatment Time:
Acne: 8-15 minutes of Blu-U light preceded by 30-45 minutes Levulan®; Actinic Keratoses: 15-20 minutes Blu-U preceded by 1 hour Levulan®
Frequency:
Acne: recommended treatments with Levulan® are every 3 weeks for an average of 6 sessions. Blu-U without Levulan® is 2 times per week for 8-12 weeks. Maintenance treatments are recommended. Actinic Keratoses: 1-2 treatments one month apart.
Technology Used:
Blu-U™
Levulan Kerastick™
Before/After Photos
Before:
After:
Treatments
Conditions
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