Photodynamic Therapy
Sunspots start to appear due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays. They appear as black spots on the face and can become hard or patchy. These spots may be hard to reduce and not many treatments effectively treat this. However, there is one treatment that has been very effective in reducing sunspots. This treatment is Photodynamic Therapy, which uses focused blue light and medicine to break down their appearance. We offer this treatment here at the Dermatologic Surgery Center in Medina, OH to give our clients a blemish-free face.
What Is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic Therapy is an FDA-approved light treatment that uses blue light to treat skin lesions. These lesions called Actinic Keratosis (AKs) are rough-textured, dry, and scaly patches. The cause of these lesions is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from sunlight. PDT blue light targets the AKs, which absorb the light and are broken down. As the light penetrates them they are broken down and their appearance is reduced.
How Does Photodynamic Therapy Work?
PDT works by exposing the lesions to a specialized UV blue light. Before treatment, you will have a consultation with the doctor to go over photodynamic therapy. During the treatment, the doctor or nurse will prep your face by cleaning away any oils, then we apply a medication called Levulan to set into the AKs. The medication is absorbed by the lesions which then are exposed to the light. Once the lesions are exposed to and absorb the light, the lesions begin to break down. After the treatment, the lesions dissipate after 2-3 days. However, to maintain these results it is important to stay out of direct sunlight and use sunscreen.
After these treatments, you may experience sensations of redness, swelling, or burning like a moderate sunburn. Results from this treatment can be observed after a week. Patients notice that their skin is smoother, clearer and that the appearance of AKs is greatly reduced.
Why Should You Get PDT?
Photodynamic Therapy is a good treatment for people who are dealing with these lesions. If you are dealing with AKs, and tired of trying to cover them, this treatment is for you! Photodynamic therapy is an effective method of reducing these lesions. It is also a somewhat affordable treatment at around $400 with 1-2 treatments. However, some additional treatments, up to 5 total may be needed depending on doctor’s discretion.
At the Dermatologic Surgery Center in Northeast Ohio, our staff headed by Jennifer L. Popovsky, MD, FACMS will assist you with all your needs. We take the time to make sure that our clients are well taken care of. When you visit our clinic, our staff will take time to address your concerns and create a designated treatment plan for you.
Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to learn more about photodynamic therapy, schedule a consultation with us. Our staff will take the time to consult with you and develop a personalized plan for you. We pride ourselves on providing the best in customer service and quality aesthetics treatment. So, don’t hesitate to come in and schedule a consultation with us today! We are in Medina, Ohio
We look forward to seeing you.