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Photodynamic Therapy to Eliminate Sebaceous Glands?

asked 2 years ago by ll_1002 in ca
Latest answer by Gary Goldenberg, MD
Question viewed 1,695 times
Tags: face, oily skin, skin

I have extremely oily facial skin, and this has always bothered me very much. Are there any procedures that could permanently destroy some of the sebaceous glands in my face to cause a permanent reduction in oil production?

I have heard of people going on low dose isotretinoin for this, but I'm not keen on this idea, and am looking for a more permanent solution. I have also read that Photodynamic therapy may destroy the sebaceous glands.

Is this true? Are there any other treatment options for a permanent reduction in oil secretion? Many thanks.

2 answers to Photodynamic Therapy to Eliminate Sebaceous Glands?

+2

PDT as an adjunctive therapy for sebaceous hyperplasia

Sebaceous hyperplasia (permanently engorged sebaceous glands) is one of the most challenging skin lesion to treat in dermatology as the roots of the sebaceous glands often extend beyond top layers of the skin. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves application of Levulan for a specified duration followed by exposure to the blue light as prescribed by your board-certified dermatologist. There is significant art and science associated with PDT protocol, i.e. incubation time (the amount of time... more
William Ting, MD

Bay Area Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Photodynamic therapy can shrink sebaceous glands, large pores and acne spots

PDT is a great treatment option to shrink sebaceous glands, large pores and acne spots. Using ALA, which has an affinity for oil glands, helps. This treatment is cosmetic and usually isn't covered by insurance.
Gary Goldenberg, MD

New York Dermatologist

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