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Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Clearing Up Acne Misconceptions

You've heard it all: acne is just something teenagers have to contend with, or acne is something you grow out of. While many people deal with the signs of aging for years before realizing that there are a wide variety of skin treatments that can both eliminate and even prevent them, others feel that they have to live with the physical and emotional scarring associated with acne. You don't have to, and neither do you children. And, you don't have to subject you or your loved ones to the constant use of antibiotics and Accutane®. The answer to Active Acne, Acne Scars and sun damaged skin is clear - Photodynamic Therapy (PDT).

Serving the Pacific Northwest, the Key Laser Institute for Aesthetic Medicine® in Portland, Oregon is on the forefront on the West Coast in the use of noninvasive lasers, light and energy to reverse the signs of aging and to restore the health, appearance and overall well being of your skin. Call 503-291-1953 or toll free at 800-459-6677, today, and discover the benefits of Photodynamic Therapy. Or, request a confidential consultation with Dr. Key.

Photodynamic Therapy - The Two Steps To Clearer Skin

Originally developed as a treatment for skin cancer, some of the first reported findings on the use and benefits of Photodynamic Therapy in the treatment of other skin conditions such as acne, sun damage and pre-cancerous skin change came from the Key Laser Institute.

When treating acne and similar skin conditions, PDT targets and destroys infection-causing bacteria. The procedure itself has two parts. First, Levulan™ - a photosensitizing compound containing amino acid - is applied to the skin. A natural component of skin and blood cells, when applied topically, Levulan™ literally attracts light. After half an hour, glands and pores selectively absorb the compound.

In the second step, the absorbed Levulan™ is "activated" by light energy such as the Pulsed Dye laser or Gentle Waves™ Photomodulation. The Levulan™ concentrates the light in the selected areas, where its energy then works to eliminate acne and shrink glands while simultaneously stimulating the natural growth of healthy skin.

Photodynamic Therapy for skin rejuvenation is a 30 to 60 minute procedure. In the first day or two following treatment, most patients will experience a mild-to-moderate sunburn-like look and feel. Since the skin is still photosensitive during this time, strict precautions must be taken to avoid bright light and sun exposure. While some improvement occurs within the first few days, a series of 2 to 4 treatments - at 2 to 4 week intervals - is recommended. You can expect to experience the full results of Photodynamic Therapy 4 to 6 weeks after your cosmetic medical treatment.

Choose With Confidence™. Learn today how Photodynamic Therapy can help you achieve clearer skin by calling Dr. Key at the Key Laser Institute for Aesthetic Medicine in Portland, Oregon at 503-291-1953 or on the West Coast at 800-459-6677. Email the Key Laser Institute today for more information or request a confidential cosmetic consultation.