Millions of people who struggle with acne are not aware of an effective solution that is waiting for them at many local dermatology offices – Photodynamic therapy.
Photodynamic therapy is a light-based therapy that treats acne as effective as the most aggressive acne drugs. Not only is Photodynamic therapy a worthwhile choice for most people with moderate or severe acne, it is also a great alternative for acne drugs, which many people are reluctant to choose as a solution for their condition.
The natural question is: How come people are not aware of it and why is the treatment not available at all skincare practices? The answer is simple: the treatment is not covered by most insurance plans. However, if you are willing to invest $500-$3000 to get rid of your acne without taking Accutane or any other isotretinoin products, Photodynamic therapy is most probably your answer.
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When compared to other diseases, acne is seen as minimal, but in reality, it affects more than just one’s skin. It can affect the way people see themselves; their self-esteem. A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that “acne patients experienced social, psychological, and emotional ramifications at the same level of those with chronic health problems, such as epilepsy, diabetes, and arthritis. Clearly, the emotional consequences of acne must not be taken lightly”.
Unlike medications, Photodynamic Therapy targets acne only where it is. This process works with the help of a photosensitizing agent (Aminolevulinic acid) that is applied to the skin and migrates into sebaceous (oil) glands during an incubation time lasting from 30 minutes to several hours. The treated skin is then exposed to visible light of a specific wavelength to stimulate the photo destruction of the oil gland.
Following the treatment, one should expect skin redness for a period of a week. Acne clears after 4-6 treatments in 70% of treated individuals. 5% of patients experience a severe reaction to the treatment that creates bright redness, swelling, and reactivation of acne that lasts intensely for one week and may require the brief use of steroids or antibiotics.
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However, many people with a severe reaction may only need one treatment – saving the majority of the treatment cost and getting faster results. In fact, most of our patients indicate that they would hope to be lucky and fall into this small group of patients who get this severe reaction.
Acne is unfortunate, but it is not permanent and should never deter you or your loved ones from being anything but happy about their skins appearance.
If you are interested in learning more about this process, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced staff here!
