Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is used for the medical treatment of actinic keratoses (pre-cancerous lesions), cosmetic treatment of sun-damaged skin (solar elastosis), and/or for the treatment of oily and/or acne prone skin. This is a highly effective, FDA approved treatment for actinic keratoses and acne. With prior authorization, your medical insurance may cover the PDT treatment if precancerous actinic keratosis are present. They do not cover this treatment otherwise.

The process involves the topical application of Amino Levulanic Acid (ALA). When the ALA is absorbed and activated by the specific wavelength of blue light used, the pre-cancerous, sun damaged areas and oil producing glands change it into protoporphyrin IX, a light sensitive, naturally occurring substance in the body. The light activates the protoporphyrin, therefore pre-cancerous lesions and sun damaged areas are destroyed and the overactive sebaceous glands are diminished in size.

Alternative treatments for actinic keratoses include but are not limited to: cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), skin sanding, cautery (burning with an electric needle), chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and topical chemotherapy or immune stimulating cream.

Alternative treatments for oily and/or acne prone skin include but are not limited to: prescription medications, Blue light without ALA, IPL/laser, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, over-the-counter products or no treatment at all.

Alternative treatments for sun damaged skin include but are not limited to: chemical peels, IPL/ lasers, dermal fillers, skin sanding, topical chemotherapy, microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing and skin care products (prescription or over-the-counter).


Photo-dynamic Therapy (PDT)   Before & After Photos
These are actual patients whose photos demonstrate typical results; individual results may vary.

2 Days After Treatment            10 Days After Treatment

Photo Dynamic Therapy - St. Paul, Minnesota