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PhotodynamicTherapy (PDT) traditionally uses the ALA (AminoLevulinic Acid), and a lightsource for activation, typically the blue light. In my office I like to do PDTusing the ALA, Vbeam Laser and Blue Light.The ALA isapplied to the skin for 60 minutes (or longer) in that time the solution ispenetrating into the skin and binding to the sun damaged cells. After the hourVbeam is performed to improve the broken capillaries that are typicallyassociated with sun damage, as well as activated the ALA. The last step wouldbe the Blue Light or Red Light, this step activates the ALA that has attachedto the sun damage and the activation will destroy the damaged cells.It isimportant to stay out of the sun for 48 hours post procedure, even if wearing ahat and sunscreen; sun exposure of any kind is prohibited. Consult witha Board Certified Dermatologist to see what treatment is best for you.
Both Levulan and blue light or the Fraxel Dual laser on the 1927 wavelength will treat pre-cancers. It really depends on the extent of pre-cancerous changes that are present and what other conditions in the skin are present. For the best result please see a board certified dermatologist with experience in lasers.
Depending upon the condition of your skin, I usually use both lasers and the Blu light in conjunction with Levulan kerastick application. The Levulan and Blu light will help eradicate the precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses) and additional lasers may be added to further enhance removal as well as reduction in redness or brown spots if so desired. I commonly use both the pulsed dye laser and the Alexandrite laser for this purpose to impart a more youthful appearance to the skin. Good luck!
Short answer is that I prefer laser (see my video with the reference - link to Fraxel 1927). Problem is that most insurance companies recognise PDT, but NOT laser for the treatment of AKs, or precancerous cels. Laser (Fraxel 1927) can heal skin faster, and also give a better cosmetic outcome - less pigment, wrinkles, better skin tone etc.. plus, in my hands, the results are equally as good, if not better than PDT. Video explains the PDT procedure. RegardsDr Davin LimBrisbane, Australia.