Sun exposure over time can leave more than just wrinkles and dark spots. It can also lead to actinic keratoses (AKs)—rough, scaly patches caused by years of ultraviolet (UV) damage. Although these lesions are common, they are considered precancerous and can develop into certain types of skin cancer if left untreated.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a highly effective, non-surgical treatment that selectively targets these damaged cells while minimizing harm to the surrounding healthy skin.
What Is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic therapy combines a light-sensitive medication with a specialized light source to destroy abnormal skin cells.
During treatment, a photosensitizing solution is applied to the affected area and allowed to absorb into damaged cells. Once activated by a controlled light source, the medication destroys the targeted cells while leaving healthy tissue largely unaffected.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Photodynamic therapy is commonly recommended for patients with:
- Actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions)
- Extensive sun damage
- Multiple rough or scaly patches on the face or scalp
- Certain superficial skin conditions, as determined by a dermatologist
Your dermatologist will evaluate your skin and determine whether PDT is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
What to Expect During Treatment
Photodynamic therapy is performed in the office and typically takes one to two hours, depending on the treatment area.
After the medication is applied and absorbed, the treatment area is exposed to a specialized light that activates the solution. Patients may experience a warming or tingling sensation during the light exposure.
Following treatment, the skin may become red, swollen, or peel over the next several days as damaged cells are replaced by healthy new skin.
Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
Compared with treating individual lesions one at a time, photodynamic therapy offers several advantages:
- Treats multiple precancerous lesions in one session
- Targets damaged cells while preserving healthy tissue
- Improves the overall appearance of sun-damaged skin
- Requires no surgery or stitches
- Helps reduce the risk of future skin cancer development
The Bottom Line
Precancerous skin changes are easier to treat when detected early. Photodynamic therapy offers an effective, minimally invasive way to remove damaged cells and support healthier skin for the future.
✨ Ready to protect your skin from sun damage?
📞 Call 718-491-5800 or click below to schedule a consultation with our board-certified dermatologists.
