From the Cosmetic Dermatology Archives

What's New in Photodynamic Therapy for Photorejuvenation?

Author and Disclosure Information

Premature skin aging occurs when exposure to UV light disrupts the balance between normal collagen formation and degradation. Various invasive modalities exist for the treatment of premature skin aging; however, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as an efficacious treatment option for patients seeking a more noninvasive means to repair photodamaged skin. Photodynamic therapy, a process whereby a photosensitizer and light source in the presence of molecular oxygen selectively destroy a targeted cell, has been explored in combination with various light sources. Treatment paradigms for the off-label use of PDT for photodamage (ie, fine or coarse lines, skin roughness, telangiectases, sallowness) have been established. Recently, the generalizability of PDT has started to change, as the idea of creating safe and effective protocols in darker skin types has just begun to be broached. The minimal side effects and radically reduced incubation times associated with the procedure have made PDT an attractive option for the cosmetic patient.


 

Recommended Reading

Photodynamic Therapy Protocols Differ by Location
MDedge Dermatology
New Options for Field Therapy: MAL-PDT Plus Red LED
MDedge Dermatology
SDEF: Capecitabine May Protect Against Skin Cancers After Transplant
MDedge Dermatology
Phase III Trials Prove Efficacy of Ingenol Mebutate for Actinic Keratoses
MDedge Dermatology
Nonablative Fractional Laser Proves Effective for Actinic Cheilitis
MDedge Dermatology
Point/Counterpoint: Is Mohs Surgery Being Overutilized?
MDedge Dermatology
Tretinoin, Isotretinoin Found Equally Effective for Photoaging
MDedge Dermatology
Current Therapies for AK and Precancerous Lesions Subpar
MDedge Dermatology
Thulium Laser Yields 'Dramatic' Resolution of AKs
MDedge Dermatology
Progression of Actinic Keratosis to Squamous Cell Carcinoma Revisited: Clinical and Treatment Implications
MDedge Dermatology