PDT THERAPY

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At Island Dermatology LLC, we’re proud to offer Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)—a non-invasive, clinically proven treatment for precancerous skin lesions (actinic keratoses), acne, and sun-damaged skin. PDT combines a light-sensitive topical solution with a specialized red or blue light to target damaged or abnormal skin cells, helping to restore skin health from the inside out.

Whether you're treating early signs of sun damage or persistent breakouts, PDT therapy offers a safe and effective alternative to surgery or long-term medications—and it's covered by many insurance providers.

Photodynamic Therapy is a two-step, FDA-approved dermatologic treatment. First, a photosensitizing agent (usually aminolevulinic acid or ALA) is applied to the affected skin. After an incubation period, the treated area is activated with a specific wavelength of light, often in the red or blue spectrum.

This activation causes the photosensitizer to react with oxygen in the skin, generating a chemical reaction that destroys abnormal or precancerous cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. The process also helps reduce oil production, kill acne-causing bacteria, and improve overall skin tone and texture.

PDT is highly effective for treating:

• Actinic keratoses (AKs) – rough, scaly patches caused by long-term sun exposure; often a precursor to skin cancer
• Moderate to severe acne – especially cystic or treatment-resistant acne
• Sun damage and photoaging – fine lines, uneven skin tone, rough texture
• Rosacea and sebaceous hyperplasia – under certain protocols
   

This therapy is an excellent choice for patients who want a targeted, non-surgical approach that minimizes downtime while maximizing skin renewal.

Red light therapy, used during many PDT treatments, plays a powerful role in skin rejuvenation. Red light penetrates deeply into the dermis, stimulating cellular repair, collagen production, and anti-inflammatory responses. When used in combination with the photosensitizing agent, red light:

• Enhances the destruction of precancerous cells
• Reduces redness and inflammation
• Speeds healing after treatment
• Improves skin texture and radiance over time
   

Island Dermatology uses medical-grade light therapy devices designed specifically for dermatologic use in PDT protocols, ensuring both efficacy and safety.

1. Consultation – Your board-certified dermatologist will evaluate your skin and determine if PDT is right for you.
2. Application of the photosensitizer – The solution is applied to the treatment area. You'll wait 1–3 hours for absorption.
3. Light activation – A specialized light (blue or red, depending on the target condition) activates the solution.
4. Post-treatment care – You’ll be advised to avoid sun exposure for 48–72 hours, as your skin will be more photosensitive during this time.
    

Downtime is generally minimal. Some redness, flaking, or mild discomfort may occur, similar to a sunburn, and typically resolves within a few days.