IPL PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY

(Also see: Laser Skin Rejuvenation and Permanent Hair Reduction)

All of our laser skin rejuvenation IPL treatments can be intensified by using photodynamic therapy (PDT) if it is determined by the doctor that they would benefit from this treatment.

What are the treatments like?

Patients receive a topical application of ALA, or Levulan™ (aminolevulanic acid) or glycolic acid prior to their treatment. Some patients may experience a mild discomfort as the light energy (IPL) is administered. If you feel the need, you can choose to have a topical anesthesia applied prior to the procedure, or we can use our forced-air cooling device during the procedure. Treatments are spaced at two to three week intervals. The number of your treatments, their duration, and treatment intervals may vary depending upon the condition being addressed.

Is there any pain or recovery down time?

Following treatment pain is nonexistent to minimal. The skin may appear flushed, brown spots may be darker, and tiny veins may be more visible. This will decrease over the next several hours. Some patients experience significant peeling and redness for the first two or three days, which can be controlled with applications of moisturizer. You may resume normal activities immediately.

What results can I expect? Are there any side effects?

After each session you will experience some improvement in skin tone and texture. There will be a decrease in overall redness. Sunspots fade; pore size shrinks. Fine lines and wrinkles will gradually decrease in size as the new collagen forms beneath the skin. These improvements will continue to increase with each treatment, with no adverse side effects.

Will PhotoDynamic Therapy improve rosacea?

Yes. Patients with rosacea will see a progressive reduction in redness with every treatment. The redness and flushing caused by rosacea can be reduced significantly.

Can it treat acne?

Yes. PhotoDynamic Therapy with blue light kills the P.acnes bacteria which causes acne. Our N-Lite Laser can be administered alone or with a topical application of ALA for this treatment. IPL therapy pretreatment with ALA may offer additional reduction of lesions, pustules and papules, providing treatment for both active and inactive acne lesions. This treatment provides an attractive alternative to patients who do not wish to treat their acne with oral antibiotics.