ADVANCED PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
This advanced light therapy treatment is ideal for those who may suffer from the following: moderate to severely inflamed acne, papulopustular rosacea, or very stubborn acne lesions.
There is no comparison, this treatment is the ultimate acne fighter. Clinical studies have shown promising results for those specifically who haven’t had success using prescription methods (accutane, tretinoin, clindamycin, spironolactone, etc) or other professional treatment options in treating inflamed acne and/or severe rosacea. If you’re feeling hesitant about trying oral prescription treatments like Accutane, try this solution first!
Our Advanced Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Treatment is a highly effective, non-invasive acne solution that targets the underlying causes of acne through a combination of LED light therapy with a photosensitizing agent, Methyl Aminolevulinate (MAL). MAL is topically applied to the skin, where it is absorbed by the acne-affected areas. Once absorbed, MAL is converted into a photosensitive compound that, when exposed to specific wavelengths of LED light, produces reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS work to destroy acne-causing bacteria, reduce excess oil production, and minimize inflammation.
Red LED light activates the photosensitizing agent in the skin, allowing the light to penetrate deep into the pores. This selective activation helps target abnormal or damaged cell tissue (acne lesions specifically), while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unaffected. The result is a reduction in acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes), a decrease in the size of sebaceous glands (oil-producing glands), and a significant reduction in inflammation and redness, leading to clearer, calmer skin.
PDT addresses the primary factors that contribute to acne: bacterial growth, excess sebum production, and inflammation. This makes it an ideal treatment for clients with moderate to severe acne, especially those dealing with persistent or cystic breakouts that do not respond well to topical treatments or oral medications. By targeting these factors at the source, PDT provides long-lasting acne control and overall skin improvement.
Extractions of suitable lesions and high frequency may be performed pending integrity of skin and severity of inflammation. However, extractions may be deferred until majority of inflammation has healed. We do not prematurely extract if the lesions at the risk of potentially causing more irritation and scarring. A cryotherapy massage with soothing gel will then be performed following PDT treatment to nourish, cool, and hydrate the skin for a quicker healing process.
View a video highlight of this service here.
Precare Instructions: Do not exfoliate or use prescription grade retinoids/topicals for 7 days prior to treatment. Maintain tyrosinase inhibitors in homecare regimen.
Aftercare Instructions: After the treatment, clients may experience slight redness or sensitivity, similar to a mild sunburn, which typically resolves within a few hours. While it’s unlikely, some clients do report mild flaking around day 3-5 post treatment. Do not pick or peel skin that may flake. To maximize results, clients are advised to follow a specific post-treatment skincare regimen, including avoiding direct sun exposure, moisturizing regularly, and using gentle products for the next 7 days.
Avoid using makeup, additional exfoliation and actives, excessive sun exposure, external and internal heat stimulators (i.e. hot showers, saunas, sweaty exercise, etc.) following treatment for at least 72 hours. Do not exfoliate or use prescription grade retinoids/topicals for 7 days post treatment. Sunscreen use is imperative as well as maintenance of assigned tyrosinase inhibitors in homecare regimen to avoid unwanted hyperpigmentation.
Recommended Appointments: Treatments are recommended to be performed every 6 weeks for best results with at least 3 sessions depending on acne severity or complexity. (Package includes a series of three treatments)
Duration: 90 minutes
Contraindications: Not suitable for those with photosensitivity, epilepsy, prone to seizures, dermatitis, sunburn, severe barrier impairment, pregnancy/breastfeeding, or those with nut allergy.
Highlights of Treatment: Enzyme Treatment, Extractions, High Frequency, Advanced PDT, LED Light Therapy, Biocellulose Mask, Cryotherapy Massage
