Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a revolutionary treatment for significantly sun-damaged skin, PDT is predominantly used to improve not only the skin’s physical appearance but also prevent existing areas of sun damage manifesting into cancerous lesions.

The procedure involves the application of a specialised, light-activated topical cream, which contains an active ingredient that once absorbed into the damaged cells, becomes extremely light sensitive. After an incubation period of between 2-4 hours, the skin is exposed to a light source (LED or Sun) resulting in the activation of the treatment and elimination of unhealthy cells. As activation only occurs in those damaged cells treated by the topical agent, healthy tissue is unharmed and scarring is unlikely.

Within 2-3 days of treatment, the exposed and sun-damaged skin will be red and possibly sore, then begin to peel, scab, ooze and flake off. While this is not a pleasant effect, it is a vital part of the treatment and necessary for the regeneration of new, healthy skin. 7-14 days post-treatment, the treated area should be healed, leaving noticeably clear and healthy skin behind.

PDT can be used to treat a range of conditions including;

• Acne
• Keratoses
• Hypertrophic lesions
• Sebaceous gland hyperplasia
• Warts
• Uneven skin tone
• Rosacea
• Psoriasis
• Fine lines
• Some Skin Cancers

You can find out more about this treatment by speaking to one of the attending Skin Doctors.  Your doctor will help you determine whether PDT is an appropriate treatment method for you.  There are a few differing treatment options for every budget.