Photo Dynamic Therapy

What is PDT?

Photodynamic therapy was developed in the U.K. as a means of treating large areas of severely sun damaged skin. By selecting out the damaged skin cells, the normal skin cells are spared. Photodynamic therapy is also used to treat severe acne and to produce a super photofacial. Even some skin cancers can be treated. In acne, results are similar to a course of medication prescribed by a Dermatologist.

How does it work?

Damaged skin cells and over-active sebaceous glands will take up the applied chemical quickly and convert it to a very light sensitive chemical called a porphyrin. Light therapy with IPL or Omnilux is then concentrated on where it is needed, sparing the normal component of the skin. Normal skin cells will slowly convert the chemical to porphyrin and this is why you must avoid any sun exposure for 48 hours after the treatment.

What is the procedure?

The area of skin to be treated is cleansed or microdermabraded and wiped down with acetone. A chemical is then applied and left on for 30-60 minutes. You will need to stay indoors while this incubates. After the chemical is washed off, local anaesthetic gel may be applied for another 20-30 minutes. This will be removed and the skin will be exposed to a therapeutic light source- IPL or Omnilux. Following the treatment, a zinc based sunscreen will be applied. For a few days following the treatment, the damaged areas will become red and peel. You must stay out of the sun and bright lights for 48 hours.

What should I expect?

Following the application or this chemical, your Omnilux or IPL (Aurora) treatment will feel warmer than usual. For 48 hours after your treatment it is very important that you protect your skin from even the smallest amount of sunlight, as your skin will be very light sensitive. On the day of your treatment, bring a hat and a scarf, or towel, to drape over to protect your face if it is to be treated. If other parts of the body are to be treated, ensure that your clothing carefully covers the area. Don’t wear flimsy garments as sunlight can still penetrate these. Sunscreen must be worn. It is normal for the area of treated skin to go brown or red and peel for a few days especially in badly sun damaged skin. Mild swelling is normal. However if you experience severe swelling and pain, please ring the clinic. This can be treated with oral prednisone.

Are there any side-effects?

Mild swelling, intense redness and pulling of the skin are normal. However, a small number of people are very sensitive to the treatment and experience profound swelling and redness. The reaction may be painful. Such a reaction is treated with a short course of prednisone.