Photodynamic Therapy PDT | San Jose, Mountain View, San Mateo

PhotoDynamic Therapy™ (PDT) involves the use of photochemical reactions mediated through the interaction of photosensitizing agents, light, and oxygen for the treatment of malignant or benign diseases.

PDT for Acne and Skin Rejuvenation

Do you want to improve the appearance of your skin? If you have acne, unpleasant redness or severely sun-damaged skin, you may want to consider Levulan PhotoDynamic Therapy™.

What is PhotoDynamic Therapy?

PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) is a treatment for the skin performed in your doctor’s office by a trained healthcare professional. A clear liquid called Levulan® Kerastick® is applied to the skin. After a period of time the skin will be exposed to a type of light.

PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) for the Treatment of Acne

Levulan PhotoDynamic Therapy used in combination with the correct type of light results in significant improvement in moderate to severe types of acne.

Levulan PDT with continuous Blue light or Intense Pulsed light kills acne-related bacteria in the skin, exfoliates the skin to unclog pores and reduces capabilities of oil-producing glands in the skin. PDT can help patients who have failed or are unwilling to take Accutane. PDT treatments can help acne rosacea, sebaceous hyperplasia and improve the appearance of some acne scars. PDT decreases oiliness of the skin and improves skin texture and smoothness by minimizing pore size. Any pre-cancerous lesions on the skin (called Actinic keratoses or AK’s) are simultaneously treated.

Before PDT and After PDT

PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) for the Treatment of Skin Rejuvenation

Levulan with IPL is the most recent advancement in Photorejuvenation. This treatment results in significant improvement in sun damaged skin, wrinkles, pore size, skin texture and pigmentation. Pre-cancerous lesions called Actinic keratoses (AK’s) are simultaneously treated.

Levulan in combination with the Palomar StarLux® IPL technology also available at California Skin Institute.

Before PDT to 3 Months Post Therapy

What are the Disadvantages?

Following PDT, the treated areas can appear red and/or swollen. The skin may peel within 2 – 7 days. Darker pigmented patches may become temporarily darker and then peel off leaving normal skin. Treated areas of the skin should not be exposed to direct sunlight 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Multiple treatments may be necessary. The improvements of these skin conditions (other than actinic keratoses) are considered a “cosmetic” use of Levulan® and are not covered by insurance.

Why should I have PDT treatments at CSI?

Dr. Morganroth is considered an expert in the field of facial skin cancer and advanced cosmetic techniques. California Skin Institute is a training site for PhotoDynamic Therapy™.

PDT for Sun Spots and Skin Cancer

Do you have “sunspots?” You may have Atinic Keratoses (AK’s).

What are AK’s?

Actinic Keratoses (AK’s) are rough, red or brown, scaly, dry patches on the skin. You may think they are simple “sun spots.” They are caused by excessive exposure to sunlight. If detected early, they can be treated. If left untreated, they can develop into a very serious form of skin cancer.

How can AK’s be treated?

There are many ways to treat AK’s. Your California Skin Institute Provider will discuss options with you. One treatment option available at CSI is called PhotoDynamic Therapy™ (PDT).

What is PhotoDynamic Therapy™?

PhotoDynamic Therapy™ (PDT) is a simple two-step treatment performed at California Skin Institute. A clear liquid called Levulan® Kerastick® is applied to the skin. After a period of time the skin will be exposed to a blue light called a BLU-U. These treatments remove pre-cancerous AK’s.

What are the benefits of PDT?

In addition to reducing the risk of developing skin cancer, PDT may also improve the appearance of your skin. Sun damage, fine lines, pore size and blotchy pigmentation are less visible. PDT has less downtime than other treatment options. PDT is covered by most insurance plans.

What are the disadvantages?

Following PDT, the treated areas can appear red and/or swollen. The skin may peel within 2 – 7 days. Darker pigmented patches may become temporarily darker and then peel off leaving normal skin. These side effects are rare and most patients experience little to no downtime. Treated areas of the skin should not be exposed to direct sunlight 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Repeat treatments may be necessary.

Why should I have PDT treatments at CSI?

Dr. Morganroth is considered an expert in the field of facial skin cancer and advanced cosmetic techniques. California Skin Institute is a training site for PhotoDynamic Therapy™.