Opening treatment guide...
Educational info only, not medical advice. Ask a qualified provider. Disclaimer · Terms
A photosensitizing agent is applied, absorbed by target cells, then activated by specific light wavelengths.
A skin medicine activated by light, used for rough sun spots and some acne.
Check first: Porphyria (a group of enzyme disorders).
Skin tone
Often used on tones I–IV, with the right settings.
On tones V–VI, dark or light patches are more likely. Ask your provider first.
Skin tone ranges differ by device. Ask which device they will use for your skin.
General info, not a check of your own skin.
What people use it for
Tap one to see how it helps.
Skin types
Often a fit for all of these. Tap one for details.
Skin types to ask about first
Sensitive or Redness-proneAsk first
Needs a gentle, barrier-safe plan and careful screening.
In no special order. Ask which one they use, and why.
4 devices
Ask your provider
The visit
Recovery2–7 days; no bright light for 2 days
May look swollen3 days
No sun or bright indoor light2 days
Avoid sun2 days
No makeup24 hours
No sweat or heat48 hours
Your provider may give you different timing.
Before your visit: ask when to start
2 weeks before
No tanning or strong sun for 2 weeks before
3–5 days before
Stop retinoids, acids and scrubs for 3–5 days before
Right after your visit
After your visit
Common
Less common
Your own risks may differ. Ask a qualified provider.
A photosensitizer is absorbed by target cells, then activated by light to generate reactive oxygen species, selectively destroying abnormal cells and bacteria.
A topically applied photosensitizing drug is activated by a specific wavelength of light, creating a reaction that selectively destroys acne-causing bacteria and hyperactive sebaceous glands.
A topical photosensitizer prodrug, such as 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or methyl-aminolevulinate (MAL), is preferentially absorbed by pilosebaceous units. Intracellularly, it is converted to the photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). Subsequent illumination with light of a specific wavelength (e.g., blue light at ~415nm or red light at ~630nm) activates the PpIX, generating reactive oxygen species that induce cytotoxicity. This leads to sebaceous gland damage, suppression of sebum excretion, destruction of Cutibacterium acnes, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Your questions, cost and timing on one page.
Often explored alongside this treatment
Retinoids: Retinol & Tretinoin
Vitamin A creams, like retinol and tretinoin, used on the skin
Erbium Laser Resurfacing
An erbium laser that smooths texture, fine lines and scars
Laser for Redness
Often searched as Vbeam & Excel V
A laser series for lasting redness and small visible vessels
Find Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) near you
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