Acne is a common ailment that both teenagers and adults can be faced with. Rather than spending a copious amount of money on drug store treatments or topical solutions that are said to work, there is a more permanent solution available; Photodynamic Therapy.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a process which uses a photosensitizing solution that is applied to your skin. This particular topical solution is then activated by the use of a special light source and will clear up all of the acne in the designated area. The solution itself is called Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA). It is good to know that ALA is a natural product that is found throughout the body which is used for allowing red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body.

Photodynamic therapy works by causing destruction of the sebaceous glands and bacteria. The blockage of these glands and bacteria is what ultimately causes acne.

So what should you expect when having the treatment? The skin is first cleaned with acetone to get rid of any dirt and oils. The ALA solution is then applied and left for 15-60 minutes, depending on the desired outcome and downtime required. One the ALA is removed, your face will sit under a light source for a further 20 minutes. And that is it!
You will be photosensitive for the next 24-48 hours, so make sure you stay out of the sun and ensure to still wear a sunscreen! Depending on the level of treatment, redness and peeling may occur. In general though, the greater the intensity of the treatment, the greater downtime, however the greater the result.

The added benefit of this treatment is that it helps to improve tone, texture and complexion of the skin as well as helps to reduce pigmentation, pore size and fine lines.
It is recommended to have 2-3 treatments, and 2-4 week intervals. Statistics show that 90% of patients advise of improved acne after 3 treatments. And you can expect results to last up to 2 years.
And for prices starting from $550 per treatment, this is a small price to pay for blemish- free skin!