Procedures

Photodynamic Therapy Acne Treatment

Acne is a stubborn skin condition that forms when sebum (oil produced by the skin) gets trapped within the pores, creating bacteria. Acne can be treated effectively using the breakthrough treatment, Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), which causes the destruction of oil glands that cause acne spots.
Comprehensive care. Highly trained and qualified team
Convenient locations. Multiple clinics to choose from

Enquire about this treatment

Prefer to talk? Call 1300 138 797
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    THE TREATMENT

    A multi-modal approach to treating active acne

    The surface layers of dead skin are removed with microdermabrasion and acetone. The ALA cream is applied for 15 minutes to one hour (depending on the desired effect and the amount of downtime available to the patient). After the cream is removed, the patient is required to lie under a light source for 20 minutes, during which a mild tingling sensation may be experienced in the treated area.

    To obtain optimal results for acne and photorejuvenation, we recommend 2 – 4 mild or moderate PDT treatments at 2 – 4 week intervals. 30% of acne patients improve after 1 treatment, another 30% of acne patients will improve after two treatments and 90% of acne patients improve after three treatments (* Results may vary from patient to patient).

    PDT may be a suitable option for some patients with active acne lesions who haven’t responded to antibiotic treatments and are considering alternatives to Roaccutane. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment approach based on individual needs and circumstances (due to the numerous side effects). PDT is an effective and safe treatment for active acne lesions. Patients with dark skin types are able to be treated with PDT. The risk of hyperpigmentation is small if they are treated appropriately. If hyperpigmentation does occur, it resolves with appropriate treatment in 3-4 months.

    Acne Treatment with PDT treatment prices vary depending on your overall situation and expectations.

    • Prices start from $575 per treatment for full face
    • Package discounts available
    • Initial consultation is between $150 – $220

    Active acne can be treated with a number of acne treatments that are often used in combination with each other as a multi-modal approach:

    • Photodynamic Therapy (PDT):  is a highly effective treatment that destroys  bacteria and reduces oil glands in the skin. It has been medically proven to reduce acne while simultaneously rejuvenating the skin
    • Omnilux Treatment:  The Blue Laser can be used to help clear skin by destroying acne causing bacteria
    • Peels and Microdermabrasion:  These treatments help to clear the build-up of dead skin cells and prevent blockages that cause acne spots
    • Skincare:  Skincare products containing ingredients such as Vitamin A, Benzoyl Peroxide and Alpha Hydroxy acids (such as Salicylic acid) are an essential component when treating acne-prone skin

    Your initial Acne Treatment consultation and subsequent procedure can be undertaken at any one of our cosmetic clinics in Australia.

    POST TREATMENT

    Shown to have potential for long-term improvements by destroying the oil glands

    After the procedure, it is important to avoid the sun where possible, as exposure to the sun will result in a burning, stinging sensation on the face (photosensitivity). The face will become red a few hours after the treatment. Photosensitivity and redness will last anywhere from 2 days – 2 weeks depending on the intensity of the treatment selected by the patient. The greater the intensity, the better the result, but also the longer the redness and photosensitivity will last.

    In most cases, active acne can improve dramatically within 2 weeks and will continue to improve 8 – 10 weeks after the treatment*. After each session, you will experience improvement in your skin tone and texture. There will be a decrease in the overall redness and flushing. Sunspots will fade,  pore sizes will shrink. Fine lines and wrinkles will gradually decrease in size as the new collagen forms beneath the skin.

    After the procedure, some patients may observe improvements in their skin. However, the extent and duration of these improvements can vary. Combining PDT with daily skincare might enhance the effects, but individual results differ. The duration of results can also vary, and it’s important to have realistic expectations.

    This treatment has been shown to have the potential for long-term improvements in acne due to the destruction of the oil glands. Significant clinical improvement and a decrease in oil production and oil gland size have been shown after PDT.

    * Results may vary from patient to patient

    How does Photodynamic Therapy work?

    Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) involves applying a photosensitising cream called Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA) to your skin which is then activated by a red or blue light. The activation of ALA, by light, leads to:

    • Destruction of sebaceous glands: the blockage of these glands is responsible for causing acne
    • Destruction of Propionibacterium Acnes (P. Acnes), the bacteria that triggers acne
    • Improved texture, tone and complexion of the skin
    • Reduction in pigmentation, pores and fine lines
    • Progressive reduction in redness with every treatment. The redness and flushing caused by Rosacea and broken capillaries can be reduced by 80-90%

    These changes make this therapy particularly useful for treating skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, pigmentation (freckles), large pores, as well as to rejuvenate the skin. It can be used for all skin types over the whole body. The use of topical vitamin A and fruit acids prior to the PDT help with the effectiveness of the treatment.

    Are there any risks of complications with PDT?

    There is no risk of scarring with PDT. Some patients have a lively response to PDT and experience marked redness of their skin which will resolve. Temporary swelling may occur within lips and around the eyes for a few days, but the procedure has virtually no pain involved. Darker pigmented patches, called liver spots, can become temporarily darker and then peel off, leaving normal skin (usually occurring after 7 to 10 days).

    LOCATIONS

    See us for a consultation

    Our experienced team of medical practitioners, doctors and registered nurses are committed to the expert delivery of timeless natural beauty.
    See Locations

    Sydney Double Bay

    10 Henrietta Street. Double Bay NSW 2028

    Opening Hours

    • Mon

      8:30 am – 5:30 pm

    • Tue

      8:30 am – 7:00 pm

    • Wed

      8:30 am – 5:30 pm

    • Thu

      8:30 am – 7:00 pm

    • Fri

      8:30 am – 5:30 pm

    • Sat

      8:30 am – 5:30 pm

    • Sun

      Closed

    Email

    [email protected]

    Phone

    1300 138 797

    Adelaide

    163 Archer Street. North Adelaide, SA, 5006
    Wheelchair access is at the rear of the building.

    Opening Hours

    • Mon

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Tue

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Wed

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Thu

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Fri

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Sat

      Closed

    • Sun

      Closed

    Email

    [email protected]

    Phone

    08 8267 5080

    Canberra

    Suite 3 Level C, 1 Broula St, Bruce ACT 2617
    Parking behind the building - please bring your ticket for validation.

    Opening Hours

    • Mon

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Tue

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Wed

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Thu

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Fri

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Sat

      Closed

    • Sun

      Closed

    Email

    [email protected]

    Phone

    1300 138 797

    Gold Coast

    Level 2 / 127 Queen Street, Southport QLD 4215

    Opening Hours

    • Mon

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Tue

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Wed

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Thu

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Fri

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Sat

      Closed

    • Sun

      Closed

    Email

    [email protected]

    Phone

    07 5563 5917

    Sydney Cronulla

    Satellite site for injectables only. 26 Cronulla St, Cronulla NSW 2230

    Opening Hours

    • Mon

      9:00 am – 6:00 pm

    • Tue

      9:00 am – 6:00 pm

    • Wed

      9:00 am – 6:00 pm

    • Thu

      9:00 am – 6:00 pm

    • Fri

      9:00 am – 6:00 pm

    • Sat

      9:00 am – 6:00 pm

    • Sun

      Closed

    Email

    [email protected]

    Phone

    0436 399 074

    Sydney Manly

    Unit 6/9 Central Ave, Manly NSW 2095
    Free 2hr parking available at the front of the clinic.

    Opening Hours

    • Mon

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Tue

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Wed

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Thu

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Fri

      9:00 am – 5:00 pm

    • Sat

      9:00 am – 3:00 pm

    • Sun

      Closed

    Email

    [email protected]

    Phone

    0492 306 934

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