Photodynamic Therapy in the Los Angeles Area

If you’re struggling with acne and have tried and failed numerous options, we understand. Acne is so much more than a skin problem. It can affect every single aspect of your life inside and out. Before you give up, please read this page. We want you to know that there are other options. One acne treatment option that is rarely discussed is photodynamic therapy (PDT).

PDT is a treatment for acne that involves using a medication and a light-based together to reduce inflammatory acne. It works by targeting overactive oil glands. Patients with acne tend to make too much oil, a significant underlying factor for the acne condition.

The medicine used in PDT is called aminolevulinic acid (ALA). When ALA is applied to the skin, it gets absorbed into the oil gland. This process takes from 3 – 8 hours. ALA reacts very strongly to certain types of light. This property is called “photosensitivity”.  During PDT, a Blue light is used. This light has a type of light that activates the ALA, thereby decreasing oil production. After 20-30 minutes of blue light exposure, you will look and feel like you have a sunburn. Even patients with darker skin who have never burned in the sun get this reaction.

For most patients with moderate acne, a series of 1 to 3 PDT treatments will improve their acne. Because of the underlying effect on the oil glands, oily skin, flare-ups and active pimples decrease. As you can see by the before and after photos, the results can be dramatic.

If you live in the Los Angeles or Torrance areas and are looking for an alternative treatment to Accutane for your acne, we encourage you to call us and schedule a free consultation to learn more about how PDT can help.