Advanced Treatment for Sun Damage and Pre-Cancerous Skin Cells
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a highly effective treatment for sun-damaged skin and pre-cancerous cells (solar keratoses). By combining a photosensitising lotion (aminolevulinic acid or ALA) with specific wavelengths of red LED light, PDT helps to repair damaged skin, improve uneven skin tone, and prevent the development of skin cancers.
At Southern Dermatology, this treatment is recommended annually for patients seeking advanced care for their skin health.
Treatment at a glance
Best Outcomes
Noticeable improvement in skin health within 2–4 weeks.
Procedure Time
Two appointments in one day, each lasting 30 minutes.
Duration of Results
Long-term with annual treatments.
Back to Work
5–7 days of downtime expected.
TREATMENT BENEFITS
Effectively treats sun damage and pre-cancerous skin cells.
Reduces redness, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone.
Prevents the progression to skin cancers.
Rejuvenates skin for a healthier, more even complexion.
Annual treatment option with long-lasting results.
The Treatment Process
Fill out our form to schedule a consultation to determine if ALA-PDT is suitable for your skin. Your dermatologist will review your medical history and assess your skin to ensure the treatment is appropriate.
- Your skin will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared using chemical and/or physical microdermabrasion to enhance the absorption of the photosensitising lotion.
- Aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is applied to the treatment area.
- After this appointment, the ALA is left on your skin for four hours. You may leave the clinic and return for the second session.
- After four hours, you’ll return to the clinic for the Photodynamic Therapy session.
- Red LED light is applied to the treatment area, activating the photosensitising agent and targeting sun-damaged skin and pre-cancerous cells.
- This session lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Your dermatologist will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including techniques to manage post-treatment redness and swelling. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
- Discontinue active skincare ingredients, such as retinoids or exfoliants, 48 hours prior to your appointment.
- Inform your dermatologist of any photosensitive conditions or medications.
- Avoid direct sun exposure for 48–72 hours following PDT, as your skin will be highly sensitive to UV light.
- Apply cooling sprays, thermal water, and dermatologist-recommended moisturisers to soothe the skin.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily and wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.
- Allow the redness, peeling, and crusting to resolve naturally over 7–14 days. Avoid picking or scratching the skin.
- Follow your dermatologist’s instructions for managing discomfort or swelling.
PDT is a treatment that uses a photosensitising agent (ALA) combined with LED light to target and treat sun damage, pre-cancerous cells, and uneven skin tone.
PDT can cause discomfort, including sensations of heat, warmth, or tingling during treatment. After the procedure, the skin may feel like severe sunburn. Cooling sprays and creams can help manage these sensations.
PDT involves two sessions on the same day. Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes, with a four-hour break in between.
For most patients, one PDT session per year is sufficient to maintain results and prevent further sun damage.
Side effects include redness, swelling, peeling, and temporary darkening of the skin, which typically resolve within 7–14 days.
PDT is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
You can expect redness and swelling for 5–7 days, with peeling and crusting resolving within 10–14 days.
PDT is not suitable for individuals with photosensitive disorders, active infections, or peanut allergies.
PDT destroys pre-cancerous cells (solar keratoses) before they progress into skin cancer, making it an excellent preventative treatment.
You can expect improved skin tone, reduced redness, and healthier, rejuvenated skin.