Photodynamic Therapy is a 2-part process that utilizes both the Levulan® Kerastick® topical solution and the Blue Light Treatment. 

The Levulan® PDT System is a non-surgical procedure for the treatment of pre-cancerous skin lesions known as actinic keratoses (AKs). This advanced system combines the application of the Levulan® Kerastick®, with blue light illumination to or intense pulsed light destroy AKs, while leaving healthy skin unharmed.

Actinic keratoses are small, rough, scaly patches most commonly found on areas that are heavily exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, arms, and back of the hands. AKs are directly related to past sun (ultraviolet) exposure and generally develop in fair-skinned people during midlife and beyond. They usually appear red but may be the same color as the surrounding skin. If left untreated, some AKs may increase in size and pose a significant risk of developing into a form of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma, requiring more extensive surgical treatment.

The first step in the Levulan PDT System is having one of our specialists apply the Levulan® Kerastick®, a photosensitizer stick, which contains 20% aminolevulinic acid with an applicator tip for precise administration directly to the lesion or to the entire face. This unique solution is an acid that occurs naturally in your body; it makes the AKs more sensitive to light.

In 15 minutes to an hour and you are ready for the second step. The trained specialist will then expose the treated AKs to the BLU-U™ Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator, a non-laser fluorescent blue light source, that emits specialized blue light and destroys these AKs whether they are precancerous or not. More and more patients are having full face Levulan PDT/ IPL therapy for photorejuvenating effects with IPL and AK effects with Levulan.

Patients should protect treated lesions from the sun by wearing light-protecting clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat. Sunscreens will not protect against sensitivity to light in the area to which Levulan® Kerastick® solution has been applied.