Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in Toronto

Give your skin smoother and healthier appearance with our Photodynamic Therapy treatments

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a special treatment offered at Cosmetic Laser Services that utilizes photosensitizing agent Levulan® (aminolevulinic acid HCl) applied to the patient’s skin first and activated with a light source afterwards.

The Levulan® is absorbed by actively proliferating cells such as oil glands, bacteria and sun damaged cells. The following light sources can be used to activate the Levulan®: laser light; visible blue light (Blu-U®); intense pulsed light. The Levulan® is activated in specially targeted cells that are eventually destroyed resulting in the destruction of bacteria, peeling of the sun damage cells and shrinkage of the oil glands.

The Photodynamic therapy (PDT) improves the texture of the skin, reducing the pore size giving the skin a brighter, smoother and healthier appearance.

Skin conditions to be treated by PDT:

• Sun Damage: wide areas on face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, hands, arms and legs.
• Enlarged pores, oily skin and Acne
• Keratosis pilaris: small bumps on the back of arms and cheeks
• Rosacea

The use of PDT:

The skin is cleaned first, and then the Levulan® is applied to the skin where it’s left for 30-60 minutes. The photosensitizing agent Levulan® is then activated using a light source (the activation lasts a few minutes) and washed away afterwards.

3 to 5 treatments are usually required from 2 to 4 weeks apart from each other.

PDT Frequently Asked Questions:

• Is it uncomfortable?
  
  There may be a feeling of warmth or occasionally a mild stinging, but it is well tolerated.
• What happens after treatment?
  
  Patients are more sensitive to the sun for 36 hours after treatment and must avoid direct light. There may be mild swelling around the eyes for 1 day and redness and peeling for about 7 to 10 days. Mild cleansers and moisturizers are used until peeling stops. Sunscreen is mandatory. If you are prone to facial cold sores, antiviral medication will be prescribed to prevent a recurrence.
• What are the advantages of this treatment?
  
  Photorejuvenation for sun damage is evident within a week of treatment, with minimal discomfort. Precancerous spots that are too small to be detected can be treated early. Acne can be improved without taking oral medication.
• Who should not have this treatment?
  
  Patients who are pregnant or nursing or who have sun sensitive skin conditions such as lupus should not have this treatment.
• When is the Blu-U® light used without Levulan®?
  
  Since the Blu-U® light destroys bacteria that aggravate acne, mild to moderate acne can be improved with just the light. Treatment involves sitting in front of the light for a few minutes twice a week for 4 weeks. It is safe and painless and can be used together with prescribed acne medication, light chemical peels and facials.

Before and After Photos

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Results:

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