Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

PDT is primarily used to treat actinic keratoses (AKs)—rough, scaly patches of skin caused by chronic sun exposure. Actinic keratoses are considered precancerous lesions, meaning they have the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) if left untreated.

PDT is particularly beneficial for individuals who have multiple actinic keratoses on the face, scalp, hands, or other sun-exposed areas. The treatment is best suited for patients that want to treat larger areas of sun-damaged skin rather than individual lesions.

PDT is an in-office procedure performed in several steps. Here’s what to expect:

• Application of Photosensitizing Agent: A topical medication (ALA or MAL) is applied to the affected area. This medication is selectively absorbed by abnormal skin cells, making them highly sensitive to light exposure.
• Incubation Period: The medication is left on the skin for 30 minutes to several hours, allowing it to fully penetrate precancerous cells. The exact incubation time depends on the severity of the condition and the location of the lesions.
• Light Activation: The treated area is then exposed to a specific light source, such as blue light, red light, or intense pulsed light (IPL), which activates the medication. This triggers a reaction that destroys abnormal cells while sparing healthy tissue.
• Post-Treatment Care: After the procedure, a protective sunscreen and moisturizer are applied to help soothe the skin. Patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for at least 48 hours, as treated skin remains highly sensitive to light during this period.

The entire PDT process typically takes one to two hours, and most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.

After PDT, patients may experience temporary side effects such as redness, peeling, mild swelling, and sensitivity. It’s essential to follow Apex Skin Center’s post-PDT instructions carefully and avoid sun exposure, harsh skincare products, and picking or scratching the treated area during the recovery period. Patients should also use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the skin from UV damage and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. PDT not only treats existing precancerous lesions but also helps prevent future skin damage. Patients who undergo PDT regularly as part of a skin cancer prevention plan tend to develop fewer actinic keratoses over time.