Photodynamic Therapy
At Jacksonville Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we offer blue and red light photodynamic therapy to help patients achieve clearer, healthier skin without surgery or prolonged downtime.
How Does Photodynamic Therapy Work?
PDT involves three key steps:
- Application of a Photosensitizing Agent – A light-activated medication, usually aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), is applied to the skin. This agent selectively accumulates in abnormal or damaged cells.
- Incubation Period – The medication is left on the skin for a specific period (usually 30 minutes to several hours), allowing it to be absorbed by the target cells.
- Exposure to Blue or Red Light – The skin is then exposed to a specific light that activates the medication, destroying damaged or abnormal cells while leaving healthy tissue intact.
Blue Light vs. Red Light Photodynamic Therapy
Blue and red light can be used in PDT, but they have different benefits depending on the condition being treated.
Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy
Best for:
- Acne treatment – Targets and destroys Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria.
- Sun damage and actinic keratosis – Treats precancerous lesions and reduces signs of UV damage.
- Oil control – Helps reduce excess sebum production, preventing clogged pores.
How it works:
- Blue light penetrates the superficial layers of the skin and interacts with the photosensitizing agent to eliminate bacteria and abnormal cells.
- It is especially effective for acne because it reduces inflammation and oil production without harming healthy skin.
Red Light Photodynamic Therapy
Best for:
- Actinic keratosis and skin cancer treatment – More effective at treating deeper precancerous lesions.
- Anti-aging and collagen stimulation – Red light helps stimulate fibroblasts, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles.
- Wound healing and inflammation reduction – Speeds up skin recovery and reduces redness.
How it works:
- Red light penetrates deeper into the skin than blue light, allowing it to treat more advanced or deep-seated skin conditions.
- It enhances cellular repair and collagen production, making it ideal for skin rejuvenation and scar healing.
Benefits of Blue and Red Light PDT
- Non-invasive – No needles, incisions, or surgery required.
- Minimal downtime – Most patients experience mild redness or peeling but can return to normal activities quickly.
- Effective acne and anti-aging treatment – Helps reduce breakouts, fine lines, and uneven skin texture.
- Safe for most skin types – Can be customized based on individual skin concerns.
- Can reduce the need for oral medications – Especially useful for patients who want to avoid antibiotics or isotretinoin (Accutane) for acne treatment.
Conditions Treated with Photodynamic Therapy
PDT is a versatile treatment option for a range of skin concerns, including:
Acne
- Kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Reduces oil production and minimizes future breakouts.
- Helps with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Actinic Keratosis (Precancerous Sun Damage)
- Treats rough, scaly patches caused by prolonged sun exposure.
- Reduces the risk of these lesions developing into squamous cell carcinoma.
Sun Damage and Pigmentation Issues
- Helps fade sunspots, age spots, and uneven pigmentation.
- Improves overall skin texture and tone.
Rosacea and Skin Redness
- It can reduce inflammation and vascular abnormalities that contribute to rosacea.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
- Stimulates collagen production to improve skin firmness and elasticity.
Superficial Skin Cancers (In Some Cases)
- Can be used as an alternative to surgery for certain early-stage non-melanoma skin cancers (like basal cell carcinoma).
What to Expect During a Photodynamic Therapy Session
At Jacksonville Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, a PDT session typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation – A dermatologist evaluates your skin and determines if PDT is your best treatment option.
- Cleansing – The skin is cleaned to remove oil, makeup, and debris.
- Application of Photosensitizing Agent – The solution is applied to the treatment area and left to incubate.
- Light Exposure – Depending on the treated condition, the skin is exposed to either blue or red light for 15–30 minutes.
- Post-Treatment Care – Sunscreen is applied, and patients are advised to avoid direct sunlight for at least 48 hours, as the skin will be temporarily more sensitive to UV rays.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated:
- Acne treatment – Typically 4–6 sessions spaced 1-2 weeks apart.
- Actinic keratosis treatment – Often 1–2 treatments with a follow-up evaluation.
- Anti-aging and skin rejuvenation – Maintenance treatments may be recommended every 6–12 months.
Is Photodynamic Therapy Right for You?
Good candidates for PDT include those who:
- Struggle with moderate to severe acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
- Have sun-damaged skin or precancerous lesions.
- Want a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment.
- Are looking for an alternative to oral medications or more aggressive procedures.
Who should avoid PDT?
- Patients with severe photosensitivity or certain medical conditions that make them highly reactive to light.
- Those taking medications that cause increased sun sensitivity.
- Individuals with active skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area.
Why Choose Jacksonville Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery?
At Jacksonville Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, our experienced dermatologists use the latest PDT technology to provide safe and effective treatments tailored to each patient’s skin type and concerns. We offer:
- Customized treatment plans using blue light, red light, or a combination of both.
- Expert guidance on skincare before and after treatment to maximize results.
- A comfortable and relaxing clinical environment with state-of-the-art equipment.
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