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Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy is an advanced skin care technique that uses blue light to treat skin conditions and signs of aging. This treatment is gentle and effective, offering great results in as little as one treatment. Alta Vista Dermatology offers photodynamic therapy treatments to those living in Denver, Highlands Ranch, and the neighboring Colorado communities.

What is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a skin care treatment that uses light-activated medications to eliminate skin conditions and reduce signs of aging. Alta Vista Dermatology offers BLU-U photodynamic therapy, combining effective topical solutions with blue light therapy. These topical solutions are applied to the skin and then activated using blue light for an effective treatment. Additionally, we offer Ameluz® with the red light system known as BF-RhodoLED®.

What are Amulez® and BF-RhodoLED®?

Amulez® and BF-RhodoLED® combine red light photodynamic therapy with a targeted topical solution to address mild to severe actinic keratoses. BF-RhodoLED® is the preferred PDT device because it uses red light, which has a longer wavelength than other types of light. The longer wavelength enables deeper penetration into the skin. This is ideal for AKs because they often originate in the deeper layers of the skin where many light therapies fail to reach. Amulez® is the topical medication specifically designed to treat AKs on the face, scalp and beneath the skin’s surface.

Can PDT Be Used for Photorejuvenation?

PDT can be used for photorejuvenation, and it is a technique that we employ often at Alta Vista Dermatology. With BLU-U photodynamic therapy for photorejuvenation, we can reduce wrinkles, age spots, and improve the texture of the skin to provide rejuvenation benefits. PDT can also be used to treat the following:

  • Precancerous cells or actinic keratosis
  • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Sun damage

How is Photodynamic Therapy Performed?

Photodynamic therapy is a comfortable treatment that does not require any anesthetic. During treatment, a topical solution is applied to the affected area. The size of the area will vary depending on the patient’s reason for treatment. Then, the medication in the topical solution is activated using either blue light energy or red light energy. When targeting precancerous growths, this process eliminates the damaged cells and stops the growth from becoming cancerous. PDT is a popular treatment option for photorejuvenation and actinic keratosis because it targets only the desired areas, leaving the healthy skin unharmed.

How is Recovery from PDT?

Photodynamic therapy is a gentle treatment that requires very little downtime. Patients are typically able to resume work and other normal activities immediately after their appointment. However, most patients will experience redness, peeling, or swelling for a few days following their treatment. During this time, the skin will be very sensitive to the sunlight, so it is important to wear sunscreen and limit sun exposure if possible.

How Much Does Photodynamic Therapy Cost?

To determine the exact cost of your PDT therapy, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our office. During your consultation, we will develop a personalized treatment plan that will satisfy your unique needs and produce the best results possible. At that point, we will be able to provide you with a clear breakdown of the costs associated with your treatment. To help make our services affordable for our patients, we are proud to offer financing through CareCredit®. We also accept cash, checks and major credit cards.

PDT is a gentle treatment solution for precancerous growths and other skin conditions. If you would like to learn more about the treatment or schedule an appointment, contact us today. We offer photodynamic therapy and other advanced skin care services to residents of Denver, Highlands Ranch, and the surrounding areas of Colorado.