Using Levulan for pre cancer on the face is it better to use bluelight or laser?

Question

Can laser alone destroy pre cells?

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

Photodynamic
Therapy (PDT) traditionally uses the ALA (AminoLevulinic Acid), and a light
source for activation, typically the blue light. In my office I like to do PDT
using the ALA, Vbeam Laser and Blue Light.

The ALA is
applied to the skin for 60 minutes (or longer) in that time the solution is
penetrating into the skin and binding to the sun damaged cells. After the hour
Vbeam is performed to improve the broken capillaries that are typically
associated with sun damage, as well as activated the ALA. The last step would
be the Blue Light or Red Light, this step activates the ALA that has attached
to the sun damage and the activation will destroy the damaged cells.

It is
important to stay out of the sun for 48 hours post procedure, even if wearing a
hat and sunscreen; sun exposure of any kind is prohibited.

Consult with
a Board Certified Dermatologist to see what treatment is best for you.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

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.

Jason R. Lupton, MD · Answer

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!

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

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.

Using Levulan for pre cancer on the face is it better to use bluelight or laser?

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser vs PDT for precancerous cells.

Answer: Laser vs PDT for precancerous cells.

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Everything you need to know about Photodynamic Therapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Using Levulan for pre cancer on the face is it better to use bluelight or laser?

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser vs PDT for precancerous cells.

Answer: Laser vs PDT for precancerous cells.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Photodynamic Therapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.