Acne Treatments

A new procedure is now available that treats active acne as well as older acne scars leaving your skin smoother. The procedure is called Photodynamic Acne Treatment using Levulan.

Photodynamic Acne Treatment is a process by which a photosensitizing agent (Levulan) is applied to your skin. The Levulan is then activated with a specific wavelength of light, which 'turns on' the medication. Levulan has been used extensively for the treatment of a variety of different skin conditions, and it is approved by the FDA for the treatment of sun damaged skin and pre-cancerous lesions.

Levulan is a 20% solution of Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA). ALA is a natural substance found throughout your body, as it is a precursor for hemoglobin synthesis. You would be unable to make a red blood cell to carry oxygen without ALA in your body. Consequently, it is a 'natural' product found in all humans.

Acne results from the obstruction and inflammation of the sebaceous glands, and it affects 80% of the human population. Acne typically begins in adolescence with hormonal changes. However, there are many older individuals who suffer from 'adult acne'.

There are several different presentations of acne ranging from comedonal (blackheads and whiteheads), popular, pustular, and cystic acne. In many cases, many of these presentations of acne can be present on an individual simultaneously.

Prior to Photodynamic Acne Treatment, the best available treatment option for cystic acne was Accutane. However, with Accutane there are many systemic side effects including birth defects, liver abnormalities, mood depression, and virtually all patients get dryness and night vision changes. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Acne treatment provides a viable alternative for all types of acne treatment.

Photodynamic Acne Treatment is done as follows: The Levulan is applied to your skin and left on for approximately 60 minutes. Levulan is a clear solution and is odorless and colorless. Levulan is then activated with intense pulsed light. This process takes about 20 minutes. The Levulan targets active cells. Acne sebaceous glands are active cells. These cells preferentially absorb Levulan, and these cells are targeted by the Levulan once it is activated; hence the term, photodynamic therapy. The Levulan will also target sebaceous hyperplasia (which are those small (1-3 mm), benign, bumps on your skin) and the papules of acne Rosacea. Skin oiliness is decreased, and the appearance of pores is minimized. The entire skin texture improves following a Photodynamic Acne Treatment.

The 'downside' of PDT is that you will be red and have some skin peeling (and crusting if you have skin cancers) for several days after the treatment. Usually, the first 1-2 days are the worst. Pressed mineral base by Jane Iredale (available in our office) will hide most of the redness.

You will be photosensitive for a minimum of 24 hours following treatment. Sun block will NOT help the photosensitivity. You must leave our facility wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, etc and remain inside 24 hours post treatment. Please schedule your appointments around social events and allow one week to fully recover.

The advantages of PDT are rapid treatment of acne lesions all over the face without scarring or surgical excision. The skin appears refreshed and younger following these treatments. We advise a series 4-6 monthly treatments or optimal results. Periodic 'booster' treatments are suggested to maintain your results. Remember, we are dealing with the human body so please understand that no guarantees are ever implied.

Naturally, you can use your topical acne lotions in between your Levulan treatments once the redness has settled down after a few days.

Any further questions may be addressed to Jean Trost R.N., B.S.N. either by phone 425-398-9001 or via email: jean@bellatuskinandlaser.com.

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