PDT utilises a chemical reaction activated by light energy from the sun to selectively treat various skin conditions. At this clinic it is used for solar damage actinic keratosis and some early skin cancers.
It works by applying a cream/lotion – either 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to the skin. The damaged and abnormal cells take up the 5-ALA and when activated by sunlight produce oxygen free radicals which destroy damaged cells. PDT can be used on any part of the face or body.
Convenient – in most situations a single application will be all that is necessary to treat the affected area
Effective – clearance for actinic keratoses is greater than 70%
Low downtime – generally healing has completed within 7 days
Easy to treat large areas
Low risk of side-effects compared to other treatments
Minimal discomfort
What is the process?
Patients will be assessed for the level of solar damage and photographs will be taken as a baseline. On the day of treatment the face will be cleansed and any crusting on the skin will be removed. First sunscreen will be applied to the skin to block out UV rays. This is followed by application of the 5-ALA . You will then be directed to sit in indirect sunlight for 2 hours so that the treatment takes effect. During this time you will feel a mild hot/tingling sensation. After the timed exposure has taken place the face will be cleansed and moisturiser will be applied.
What to expect after the treatment?
Within the first 2-3 days the skin will become red, tight and there may be some crusting. Once this peels away the skin will remain pink for up to 7 days or so depending on the severity of the sun damage and the skin’s response to the treatment. We will see you back in clinic at 2 weeks to ensure everything has gone well and organise further review within 3 months if repeat treatment is needed.
If you are interested in this treatment please discuss this with your Dermatologist to see if you are a suitable candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to know more? Be sure to check the FAQ or get in touch!
Daylight PDT is a non-invasive treatment for precancerous skin lesions and certain types of non-melanoma skin cancers. It involves the application of a photosensitizing agent to the skin, which is then activated by natural daylight.
Unlike traditional PDT, which requires the use of artificial light sources, daylight PDT utilises natural sunlight as the activating light source. This makes it more convenient and accessible for patients, as it can be performed outdoors.
Daylight PDT is primarily used to treat actinic keratosis (AK), a precancerous skin condition caused by sun damage. It may also be effective in treating certain types of non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ.
Daylight PDT may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or skin types. It's essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine if Daylight PDT is the right treatment option for you.
During a Daylight PDT session, a photosensitising agent, such as aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), is applied to the affected area of skin. After a specified incubation period, the treated area is exposed to natural daylight for a predetermined amount of time.
Daylight PDT is generally well-tolerated by patients and is associated with minimal discomfort. Some patients may experience a mild tingling or burning sensation during the treatment, which typically subsides shortly after the procedure.
The duration of a Daylight PDT session depends on the size and number of lesions being treated. In most cases, the procedure can be completed within a few hours, including the incubation period and exposure to natural daylight.
Common side effects of Daylight PDT may include redness, swelling, crusting, and temporary changes in skin pigmentation at the treatment site. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving within a few days to weeks.
The number of Daylight PDT sessions required depends on the severity of the skin condition being treated and the individual patient's response to treatment. Your dermatologist will develop a customised treatment plan based on your specific needs.