Phototherapy
Acne.org’s Real World Take
PDT as it’s called is an incredibly painful procedure, but one that may produce lasting results. It’s a less invasive option than isotretinoin for severe acne that doesn’t cause so many potentially lifelong side effects. However, it works by permanently disabling skin oil glands, and what happens long term when you do that remains unknown. Proceed with caution.
Phototherapy
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Used Photodynamic Therapy? Rate It:
Choose from 1 to 5 stars
September 30, 2007
Cons:
Itching, swelling, and burning sensation for two days. Recupearation time: 7days
This was my last option to treat my acne. I have tried EVERYTHING... I just had the Levulan treatment one week ago, my skin is smooth but the acne is still there... Im not sure if this treatment will clear my acne...
April 30, 2007
Pros:
None.
Cons:
Expensive. Saw no results. You have to stay out of the light for 48 hours so it isn't convenient.
I have had the clearlight treatment done and I had great results from that. I think the levulan did not help my skin at all. I understand that these treatments don't work for everybody so I guess this one was just not right for me. I think the frequency of the treatment is also something that was ineffective. I went three times, once every three weeks. For the clearlight treatment I went once a week for a total of eight times. My skin stayed totally clear for eight months. I would recommend that treatment over the Blu-U
February 14, 2007
Pros:
Smaller Pores, better skin texture, less breakouts
Cons:
Expensive, and can be painful. ususally need 4-7 days recovery time. Red and swollen for first 2-3 days then lots of peeling afterwards.
I had 3 treatments of levulan/blu-u with microderms before procedure and after recovery. Levulan was left on for 2-3 hours with 20 mins in front of light. After the 1st and 2nd treatments my skin looked AWSOME and i have recieved many compliments about how nice and smooth my skin looked. It not only helped with my acne, it faded red markes, helped scarring and tightened pores. when i did breakout it didnt last and i got tiny little bumps instead of cysts. i just done my 3rd treatment and am in the recovery stage of peeling as i type this. Make sure if u get this done u have it with levulan and not just the blu light. also microderms to breakdown the skin. i believe the number of treatments vary between individuals. Minimum of 3 and then more depending on the person.
April 27, 2021
It’s been a decade later, has your acne come back?
Did you experience premature aging?
October 19, 2006
I did the blue-u light with the infrared light for 4 weeks, twice a week (one day blue, one day infrared) and can't say it worked. I also did one session of levulan with blue-u light and again, can't say it worked. I was fortunate to do these treatments in a study, so I didn't pay for them. I would recommend looking for laser centers that offer studies to try this, rather than paying. Accutane worked the best (though it dried up my sinuses) but recently learned you can take it in very low dosages, though for a much longer time. But with so many side affects, I would recommend 2.5% BP, mild cleanser (vanicream) a good moisturizer (nuetrogena healthy defense) and a health insurance plan where you can get injections from derm for cystic breakouts. Also, health reimbursement account for monthly chemical peels (as long as it's from a derm and a receipt for treatment of acne is provided) and a diet full of vegetables!
Pros:
Skin feels smooth