Although the causes of Rosacea have remained a mystery for decades, the features of this chronic condition have stayed the same.  Often mistaken for “adult acne,” Rosacea is a condition that tends to come on during one’s 30’s to 40’s, with a tendency for easy flushing, oily, sensitive skin and eventually red acne like bumps and little yellow bumps which are enlarged oil glands. The classic “WC Fields nose” is a late manifestation that although less common than the other features of Rosacea can be quite alarming for many patients.

While avoiding hot spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, Jacuzzis, saunas and other lifestyle factors that dilate capillaries and aggravate rosacea may be enough for some, others need even more than medical therapy can provide.  For these patients, Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) may be another option to not only treat the current lesions of Rosacea but also to prevent its progression into more severe and advanced forms.

Photodynamic Therapy, FDA approved for the treatment of precancerous spots called Actinic Keratoses, can also be used with our BLU-U visible light or lasers to reduce the social stigmata of rosacea: chronic facial flushing and redness, shiny oily skin, acne like bumps and over grown oil glands.   In addition, with PDT you’ll get the added benefit of cosmetic improvements in brown spots, fine lines and surface roughness. PDT improves the entire facial area creating a more even color, texture and tone rather than just spot treating with traditional therapies.

PDT is a special treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan (ALA) and a BLU-U visible light source.  PDT has the unique ability to reverse sun damage, rosacea, acne and precancerous spots. For severe forms of rosacea and acne, PDT can be performed with our Omnilight or Vbeam laser to further maximize results, and stimulate new collagen formation to make the skin look and feel smoother, more radiant and with smaller appearing pores and decreased scarring. 

Although individual results may vary, patients with rosacea and acne often see excellent results, resulting in the need for less medication.

Following PDT, the treated areas will be red, swollen, and tender like a sunburn. Peeling may last for up to one week.  Patients with severely undamaged skin may have an exuberant response to PDT; however, lack of peeling does not mean the treatment “did not work”.  Temporary swelling of the lips and around your eyes can occur for a few days.  Brown spots will become temporarily darker and then peel off revealing healthy glowing clearer skin.

To achieve maximum improvement 2-3 treatments per year may be needed.  Some patients are happy with just one treatment.  Of course, additional treatments can be done at periodic intervals to maintain results.

Because ALA remains in the skin for up to 48 hours, Dr. Roberts will recommend a special sunscreen and advise you to remain indoors and avoid sun exposure during this time period.

Please call our office to schedule a consultation and see if PDT is the right choice for your rosacea or facial flushing.