Had PDT One Month Ago, Now my Pores All over my Face Are Producing Tiny White Millias.

Question

Did I have an adverse reaction to PDT? Face is very dry.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Many patients undergoing Levulan with PDT exhibit small, milia-like or closed comedones which is usually in the lower part of the face.  This is so common that we speak to this in our pre and post-treatment handouts. There are a few theories as to what provokes this, but the good news is that it is generally self-resolving.

	Being that it has been one month since your treatment, it would be a good time to address this with your practitiner to discuss options.  The need to balance your skin care regimen with oil-free moisturizing in addition to gentle exfoliation is a must.  Continue to be diligent with sunscreen protection.

	The below link offers more in depth information.

Melanie D. Palm, MD · Answer

Milia and acne flares are common following PDT and will improve.  Sometimes this is the result of emollient use in the days following PDT.  These white spots can be easily removed.

Jordana S. Gilman, MD · Answer

After Photodynamic Therapy the skin is red and scaly and it peels for up to one week.  Part of the post-treatment care is the use of sunscreen and moisturizers to help manage this peeling.  The use of heavier creams than usual can contribute to the formation of acne and milia.  Switch to a lighter formulation of moisturizer.  You may need to see your dermatologist for a mild acne treatment and to remove the milia.

	The skin is also more sensitive after PDT treatment.  If you use anything such as retin-a, glycolic acid, or similar products, your skin may get dry or irritated even if you were able to use these before treatment.  Decrease the frequency that you use these (go from every day to every other day, for example) and see how your skin responds.

Had PDT One Month Ago, Now my Pores All over my Face Are Producing Tiny White Millias.

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Everything you need to know about Photodynamic Therapy

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Had PDT One Month Ago, Now my Pores All over my Face Are Producing Tiny White Millias.

Answers (3)

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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.