Modern Acne Treatment: Photodynamic Treatment

Over the past few years, people have been making a buzz out of acne light treatments. Without a doubt, many experts note that these modern acne treatments are probably the most efficient forms of modern procedure that exists these days. Among the most popular forms of acne light treatment is the photodynamic therapy.

What is Photodynamic Therapy?

This is a non-invasive treatment procedure that makes use of light treatments and a photosensitizing agent. This agent is often referred to as "ALA" or 5-aminolevulinic acid. During the process, the photosensitizing agent will be applied to the skin in order to make it more receptive to the laser light. After removing the agent, the light treatment will then be conducted.

In its early years, the photodynamic treatment is used to cure cancer and actinic keratosis. However, due to recent developments and researches, the therapy is now approved for acne treatment. Basically, this therapy is used to shrink the oil glands of the skin. By doing so, the amount of oil produced will also be reduced. ALA-PDT can also be used to kill the acne-producing bacteria and easily shed off the dead skin cells. Other materials that block the pores and follicles can also be removed using the therapy. PDT can also be used to improve the texture of the skin.

What happens during the treatment procedure?

Photodynamic therapy used to be painful. In fact, many patients in clinical trials in the past reported that they experienced moderate to severe pain during the procedure. However, recent developments made the therapy virtually painless these days. This is because of the "short contact" between the light and the skin.

In most cases, the short contact photodynamic therapy treatments will begin with the micro-dermabrasion process. This works by removing the excess dead cells on the surface of the skin. By getting rid of the dead cells, the skin also becomes more susceptible to the ALA penetration. After the initial phase, the photosensitizing agent is then applied to the skin for 15 minutes to one hour. When the agent is removed, the dermatologist will then use a special blue light to treat the skin.

The whole therapy is often consisted of three to five treatments. Each treatment is done after intervals of two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the acne and the results of the previous treatments. The number of treatments per patient will also vary as it will depend on the severity of the acne.

Is this treatment procedure quite effective?

Based on the results of various clinical studies, the results of this therapy is quite promising. According to some dermatologists, most people experience immediate healing of lesions and inflammations as well as significant improvements in the texture of the skin. Other than that, some also report softening and reduction in scars and blemishes.

On the average, the improvement rate is reported at 50% to 75%. Most patients will immediately notice results after the first treatment. For best results, most dermatologists will recommend photodynamic therapy in line with other medications - topical and systemic treatments for acne solutions. PDT is quite efficient for all kinds and grades of acne cases - from the mild ones to the most severe grades including cystic acne.