The MicroPhotodynamic Peel (also known as ALA/PDT - aminolevulinic acid/photodynamic therapy) is a treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent activated with blue light. It is effective as a skin rejuvenation treatment to correct sun damaged skin, as well as a treatment for early cancerous lesions known as actinic keratoses.
For this two step treatment, a photosensitizing agent, Levulan (ALA), is first applied to the skin. The Levulan is then activated with a specific wavelength of light called blue light (also known as ClearLight).
Skin Rejuvenation
MicroPhotodynamic Peels offer significant improvement to the appearance of sun damaged skin. Clients see improvements in overall skin tone and texture, reduced pore size, fewer wrinkles, faded scars and improvement of blotchy pigmentation.
Actinic Keratoses
MicroPhotodynamic peels are effective at removing sundamaged pre-cancerous zones and spots , known as actinic keratoses (AKs). The Levulan applied to the skin makes the AKs sensitive to light. When the blue light is exposed to the treated skin, the light destroys the AK's. MicroPhotodynamic Peels have been proven effective in clinical testing. Eight weeks after treatment, it had cleared 100% of AKs in 2/3 patients.
When treating actinic keratoses, MicroPhotodynamic peels have minimal side effects, fewer treatments and rapid healing compared to repeated topical liquid nitrogen treatments, Efudex (5-FU), or Aldara. In addition, compared to cautery, surgery, Efudex, or liquid nitrogen, MicroPhotodynamic Peels have a better cosmetic outcome, resulting in overall improved skin tone and texture.
The Process
After cleansing, Levulan is applied to the skin in the office and left to absorb for 45 to 90 minutes. The Levulan makes the skin very sensitive to light. The client is then placed under the ClearLight machine and a blue light is applied to the skin for 8-12 minutes. This activates the Levulan. Stinging of the skin may occur during activation but should subside after treatment. After the procedure the client must remain indoors and avoid all direct light for 24 hours, as the skin remains extremely light sensitive. Additionally, direct sunlight MUST be avoided for a week following treatment, otherwise burning and blistering may occur. Wear an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen with UVA coverage at all times, even indoors. The treated skin area will be red for two to seven days. Our Jane Iredale makeup will hide most of the redness. After 48-72 hours, the top layer of skin will scale, flake and peel. Temporary swelling around the eyes can occur for a few days. Typically the client returns to the office after two days for a hydrating facial.
For best results, a series of three to five treatments spaced three to six weeks apart is the most effective.
