PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY (PDT) OR LED LIGHT THERAPY
Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT) or LED Phototherapy is a non-invasive rejuvenating skin treatment for areas of your skin that show signs of damage from aging, acne, certain skin cancers, sun damage, age spots and other causes. It allows you to target specific areas, and gives very effective results.
PDT involves applying a topical medication to your skin, and then exposing it to a specific wavelength of light. This causes a reaction that eliminates abnormal skin cells and allows healthy cells to flourish (the term ‘photo dynamic’ refers to light sensitivity).
LED Phototherapy is a painless, even relaxing skin-care treatment that plumps up aging skin by boosting collagen production and treats mild to moderate acne. LED treatments are sometimes also called LED light therapy, LED red light, LED blue light, or by the name of the manufacturer, such as Dermawave or Revitalight.
HOW IT WORKS
The effects of light therapy depend on the wavelength of light used (a light’s wavelength determines its color). Infrared therapy uses relatively long waves of light, which are able to penetrate fairly deeply (1 to 1 1/2 inches) into the skin. Infrared light stimulates the activity of fibroblasts, which are responsible for making the proteins collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are responsible for supporting the skin and giving it its elasticity. Replenishing the collagen and elastin helps smooth wrinkles.
POST TREATMENT CARE
It is important to take care of the treated area immediately following LED/PDT, as it will be sensitive to UV rays. This includes avoiding all sun exposure for the first 48 hours, and avoiding extended periods of direct sunlight without adequate protection (sunscreen, hat, coverage) for about two weeks. Our staff will explain these precautions in detail with you at your appointment.
WHAT TO EXPECT
It is normal to experience redness, swelling or tingling for about 48 hours after your PDT session. Crusting, darkening or lightening of the skin may also occur. Normally these effects pass in 1-3 days, and improve markedly within a week. Within four weeks of treatment you should see no such signs at all, but you will notice much improved appearance of your skin – it will look more natural, youthful and vibrant. Reduction of severe acne (acne vulgaris) by decreased oil production and bacteria that causes acne. More than one session may be necessary for best results. The doctor will determine with you how many sessions you may require. Usually this is 1-5 treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart