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Photodynamic Therapy St. Louis
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), sometimes called blue light or red light therapy, is a treatment that pairs a light-activated medication with a specific wavelength of light. It’s used to treat precancerous growths (actinic keratoses) as well as sun damage and acne. At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in Troy, MO, PDT is performed under the direction of Dr. Brandon T. Beal, a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.
Double board-certified
Dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery
Fellowship-trained
Advanced cosmetic and reconstructive training
Physician-owned
Independent practice, never corporate
Troy & Chesterfield
Second location now open
What Is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic therapy is a treatment that combines a topical, light-sensitizing medication with a specific wavelength of red or blue light. A photosensitizing agent is applied to the treatment area and given time to absorb, then a light source activates it. That activation targets and destroys the abnormal cells that have taken up the medication, while the treated skin heals over the following days.
It’s most commonly used to treat actinic keratoses, a precancerous condition caused by sun damage, and it can also improve sun-damaged skin and acne. PDT is one of several light and laser options we offer; we’ll determine whether it’s the right approach for your skin at your consultation.
What PDT Is Used For
- Precancerous growths (actinic keratoses)
- Sun damage and photorejuvenation
- Brown spots and uneven tone
- Acne
Because PDT treats precancerous changes as well as cosmetic concerns, it sits at the intersection of medical and aesthetic care. Whether it’s appropriate for your skin, and which light is used, is determined at your consultation.
Your PDT Visit
1
Preparation
A topical medication is applied to the treatment area and given time to absorb. Tell your provider if you have a history of cold sores, as the light can reactivate them and an antiviral may be prescribed.
2
Light activation
The medication is activated by exposure to a specific wavelength of red or blue light, typically for about 10 to 30 minutes. We use the Painless PDT Protocol developed at the Cleveland Clinic.
3
Recovery
Expect redness and peeling for about 4 to 14 days, with most people back to work within a day or two. You must avoid direct sunlight for two days afterward, since the medication can be reactivated by sun.
Recovery, Aftercare & Side Effects
After treatment, avoid direct sunlight for two days. When outdoors, wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothing and seek shade; everyday errands are fine, but avoid prolonged time outside, as sun can reactivate the medication and cause a stronger reaction. PDT is generally safe, and side effects, most commonly redness, temporary discoloration, and rarely infection, are usually mild and resolve within a few weeks. Because the light can reactivate the herpes simplex virus, let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores.
Some patients need more than one PDT session for the best result, which is more common with significant sun damage or numerous precancerous growths. Sessions are usually spaced two to five weeks apart and can be continued over time to help maintain results.
Results vary. A consultation is required to determine whether photodynamic therapy is appropriate for you, and treatment plans are individualized. Outcomes and the number of sessions needed differ from person to person.
Photodynamic Therapy Before and After Photos
Every photo is from one of Dr. Beal’s patients. Results vary.
Schedule a PDT Consultation in Troy, MO
If you have sun-damaged skin, precancerous growths, or acne and want to learn whether photodynamic therapy is appropriate, a consultation is the next step. We welcome patients from across the region, including O’Fallon and St. Charles, at our Troy office, and our second location in Chesterfield. Call (314) 834-1400 or request a consultation online.
Common questions
Photodynamic Therapy FAQs.
What does PDT treat?
PDT is most commonly used for actinic keratoses, a precancerous condition caused by sun damage. It can also help with sun-damaged skin, brown spots, and acne. Because it addresses precancerous changes as well as cosmetic concerns, your provider will assess whether it’s the right fit for your skin at your consultation.
How much downtime is there?
Expect redness and skin peeling for about 4 to 14 days, with most people returning to work within a day or two. You’ll need to avoid direct sunlight for two days afterward, since the medication can be reactivated by sun and cause a stronger reaction.
How many sessions will I need?
Some patients need more than one session, which is more common with significant sun damage or numerous precancerous growths. Sessions are usually spaced two to five weeks apart, and treatment can be continued over time to help maintain results.
Is PDT painful?
We use the Painless PDT Protocol developed at the Cleveland Clinic, which is designed to keep treatment comfortable. Your provider will explain what to expect during the light-activation step and how to care for your skin afterward.
What are the side effects?
PDT is generally safe. The most common side effects are redness, temporary discoloration, and rarely infection, and these are usually mild and resolve within a few weeks. The light can also reactivate the herpes simplex virus, so tell your provider if you have a history of cold sores.
Healthier, sun-damaged skin.
Photodynamic therapy for precancers, sun damage, and acne, under the direction of a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Troy, MO, and Chesterfield now open.