Photodynamic Therapy
Cystic Acne Treatment
5-ALA Photodynamic Therapy (5ALA PDT or commonly referred to as just PDT) is a novel method to treat severe acne particularly Nodular Cystic Acne. This is especially when traditional acne treatments (like creams, face wash and topical antibiotics) fail or when patients are concerned about long term use of oral acne medications.
Photodynamic Therapy has also been used for various dermatological conditions including early pre cancerous skin lesions, but here we use it specifically for acne vulgaris resistant to conventional treatments.
THE TREATMENT
The procedure involves the application of a topical photo sensitizer 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) for about 1-2 hours, which is then followed by a controlled exposure to a light source.
5-ALA is selectively taken up by diseased cells within the acne crypts and bacteria in the pustules. Upon exposure to light, 5-ALA is converted to porphyrins which are toxic to the cells. Thus we can achieve highly selective (very finely targeted) killing of bacteria and skin cells in infected and acne-ridden areas leaving normal skin unharmed.
Photodynamic Therapy is the "magic bullet" in the treatment of acne-vulgaris (severe acne).
REPEAT TREATMENTS
Repeat treatments are not required until such a time when acne flares up into a nodular cystic variety again. Usually after a session of Photodynamic Therapy, we can hold back the recurrence of nodular-cystic acne for a long time with just some topical creams.
Recovery-TIME?
There is hardly any discomfort during the procedure. After the procedure, there may be some redness and mild swelling over the more severely infected areas. This is temporary and usually resides quickly (hours-days). Sun-protection, however, is very critical post treatment for at least a week.
Read more about acne, acne scars and Rosacea
For more information on PDT please call (+65) 6733 5300