Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an established treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer and some skin conditions that could turn into cancer if left untreated. It also has the added benefit of being a highly effective treatment for rejuvenating the skin and treating acne. To prepare the skin for treatment, a microdermabrasion treatment is carried out, then a cream containing a light sensitising chemical is applied to the area being treated. This cream contains 5-aminolaevulinic acids (ALA) and following application that area of the skin will be covered for three hours to allow it to penetrate into the sun damaged sun cells. The 5-ALA cream makes the skin very sensitive to light. Once it has been properly absorbed the activating light will be shone onto the treatment area for up to fourty-five minutes. This light will target only the damaged cells, not the normal cells. These damaged cells are destroyed and will then
be replaced by new, healthy cells.
How Many Treatments Will You Need? The application of 5-ALA cream and PDT is advised for nonmelanoma skin cancers; this is a course of two treatments. For severe acne and skin rejuvenation a course of up to four treatments is recommended.
Results? This is a highly effective and established treatment for treating some forms of skin cancer. It is also a successful treatment for clearing acne, red and inflamed skin and completely rejuvenating areas of sun damage. The texture and tone of the treated area will be visibly improved. About: The team at Harley Street Skin Clinic is second to none in their integrated approach to anti-ageing treatments and only our highly skilled doctors administer muscle relaxing injections and dermal fillers; putting our patient’s safety first and ensuring you get the best results. Follow: Twitter | Facebook | Google+