If you're dealing with rough, scaly patches of skin due to sun exposure, known as actinic keratoses, there are advanced treatments that can help. Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved solution that targets and treats these precancerous lesions with precision. Whether you've noticed changes on your face, scalp, or hands, this light-based treatment offers an effective way to renew your skin and reduce your risk of skin cancer. At Skin & Beauty Center, we're here to guide you through every step of the process with expert care and personalized attention.
What is Levulan PDT?
Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment used to target and remove precancerous skin lesions known as actinic keratoses (AKs). The procedure combines a topical solution called Levulan (aminolevulinic acid) with a special blue light to selectively destroy abnormal, sun-damaged skin cells while leaving healthy tissue untouched. It's an effective way to not only treat visible lesions but also to address any potentially hidden or subclinical ones that may not yet be apparent on the skin's surface.
Candidates for Levulan PDT
Candidates include individuals who:
- Have actinic keratoses (AKs): Especially those with multiple lesions on the face, scalp, chest, arms, or hands.
- Have sun-damaged skin: Ideal for those with a history of chronic sun exposure and early signs of skin damage.
- Are seeking a non-surgical option: Great for patients who prefer a non-invasive treatment with minimal recovery time.
- Are looking for preventive care: Suitable for individuals at risk of skin cancer due to AKs or UV exposure.
- Have fair or sensitive skin: Often well-tolerated by those with lighter skin types that may be more prone to sun damage.
It is not for those who are photosensitive, pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain skin conditions. A consultation is required.
Benefits of Levulan PDT
- Effectively treats actinic keratoses (AKs): Targets and destroys precancerous skin cells before they develop into skin cancer.
- Non-invasive and in-office procedure: No surgery or injections required, with treatment typically completed in one visit.
- Minimal downtime: Most experience only mild redness and peeling, with a relatively quick recovery.
- Treats both visible and hidden lesions: Addresses not only surface AKs but also subclinical lesions not yet visible to the naked eye.
- Improves skin appearance: Many patients notice smoother texture, more even tone, and healthier-looking skin after treatment.
- Safe and FDA-approved: Backed by clinical studies and approved for actinic keratoses treatment on the face and scalp.
- Can be repeated if needed: Safe to perform multiple treatments for ongoing prevention and skin maintenance.
WHAT ARE ACTINIC KERATOSES (AKS)?
AKs – often called “sun spots”— are rough-textured, dry, scaly patches on the skin caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet light (UV) such as sunlight. They occur most often on sun exposed areas such as the face, scalp or ears, and can range in color from skin toned to reddish brown. They can be as small as a pinhead or larger than a quarter.
WHAT DO ACTINIC KERATOSES LOOK LIKE?
Actinic Keratoses generally begin as rough spots of skin that may be easier felt than seen. Common complaints include a lesion that has increased in size or one that is raised, bleeding, poor in healing, discolored, or associated with discomfort such as pain or itching.
While a lesion may initially appear skin colored to pink, red, or brown, lesions on darker skin may be more pigmented. AKs may feel soft, rough, or “gritty,” but in any case, they feel different from the surrounding healthy skin.
Since there are many clinical variants of AKs, it is best to consult a dermatologist if you suspect a lesion.
WHO GETS AKS?
AKs are seen primarily in Caucasians with pale skin living in sunny climates. Areas of the skin with the most sun exposure, such as the head, neck, forearms, and hands account for more than 80 percent of AKs.
Actinic Keratoses develop as the result of years of sun exposure. Because the effect of sun exposure is cumulative, it is your lifetime exposure that increases your risk. Even if you didn’t suntan much, years of just doing simple tasks outside can add up to significant amount of sun exposures. For example:
- Going out to the mailbox
- Playing an outdoor sport
- Walking the dog
Because AKs take a long time to develop, they generally appear after the age of 40. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 60 percent of persons apt to get Actinic Keratoses will indeed get at least one AK in their lifetime.
Your risk of developing AKs increases if you have one or more of the risk factors.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE RISK FACTORS?
- A history of cumulative sun exposure
- Fair skin
- Blond or red hair, in particular if combined with blue, hazel or green eyes
- A tendency to freckle or burn after sun exposure
- A weakened immune system
HOW LEVULAN PDT TREATS AKS?
Levulan PDT, a 2-part treatment, is unique because it uses a light activated drug therapy to destroy AKs. How does it work? Levulan Kerastick Topical Solution is applied to the AK. The solution is then absorbed by the AK cells where it is converted to a chemical that makes the cells extremely sensitive to light. When the AK cells are exposed to the BLU-U Blue Light Illuminator, a reaction occurs which destroys the AK cells.
The 2-part treatment offers the following conveniences:
- No prescription to fill
- No daily medication to remember
- Treatment is administered by a qualified healthcare professional
Levulan PDT can also fit your lifestyle:
- The 2-part, 2 office visit treatment is completed in less than 24 hours
- Low downtime*
- High ratings for cosmetic response
- No scarring reported to date
*Patients treated with Levulan PDT should avoid exposure of the photosensitized lesions to sunlight or prolonged or intense light for at least 40 hours.
Why Choose Skin & Beauty Center for Levulan PDT
When it comes to treating actinic keratoses with Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy, you deserve a team with the expertise, technology, and personalized approach to ensure optimal results. At Skin & Beauty Center, our board-certified dermatologists and surgeons are the top choice for the diagnosis and treatment of precancerous skin conditions. With years of experience, we tailor each Levulan PDT treatment to meet your specific needs.
As one of California's most comprehensive skin care centers, Skin & Beauty Center offers a full spectrum of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. Our team includes dermatopathologists, aestheticians, and specialists in Mohs and aesthetic surgery, all working together to provide the highest quality care. We combine modern tools and techniques with a deep commitment to restoring your skin's natural beauty and health. When you choose Skin & Beauty Center, you can trust that your Levulan PDT treatment will be performed with precision, care, and a priority on lifelong skin health.
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!
For more information contact us today or click here to schedule an appointment. Our practice has locations in Burbank, West Hills, Pasadena, Northridge, Santa Clarita, and Glendale.
