Blu-U Photodynamic Therapy Specialist
BLU-U® Photodynamic therapy is a valuable medical procedure in treating acne, rosacea, and pre-cancerous lesions. The photo-sensitization medication uses high-intensity blue light to treat skin conditions. Are you suffering from skin disorders such as acne and rosacea? Visit Dr. Jacquelyn Sammons at her orange county practice for BLU-U® Photodynamic therapy.
You can also book an appointment online and learn how this non-invasive treatment can benefit your skin.
Blu-U Photodynamic Therapy Q & A
What is BLU-U Photodynamic Therapy?
The treatment utilizes Levulan®, a topical medication to perform the following:
- Treating redness and inflammation due to acne and rosacea
- Shrinking oil glands
- Minimizing pores
- Photodynamic therapy is also effective against pre-cancerous lesions called actinic keratoses.
The treatment’s working methodology is quite simple; Levulan® is touched by blue light at a specific wavelength, it undergoes a chemical reaction that causes pre-cancerous lesions to shrink away.
How does BLU-U Photodynamic Therapy treat acne?
The treatment is ideal for teens and adults with inflammatory acne and can’t use antibiotics for various reasons. It works by slowly killing P. acnes bacteria. However, it is worth noting that the treatment is not effective against whiteheads and blackheads. For these conditions, the team at Transformational Health & Wellness led by Dr. Jacquelyn Sammons recommends using facials with extractions.
The BLU-U Photodynamic Therapy procedure is fast and relatively straightforward. The sessions only go for between 15 to 20 minutes twice a week, and all you have to do is sit in front of the light. What’s more, the process is not painful or hot, and you will notice results after a few sessions.
How can BLU-U Photodynamic Therapy treat actinic keratoses?
Actinic keratoses, or AKs, are often called sun spots or lesions. They come in different sizes and appear on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as:
- Forearms
- Nose
- Ears
- Chest
- Back of the hands
Actinic keratoses often appear after extended exposure to sunlight. This includes all the time you are exposed without sunscreen, and these spots may evolve to be cancerous. Since there’s no sure way to determine whether Actinic keratoses will become cancerous, it’s best to treat it as early as possible.
A complete BLU-U Photodynamic Therapy treatment procedure takes two sessions spaced out within 24 hours. During the first session, the provider will apply Levulan medication on the AK lesions. This makes cells extra sensitive to light after they absorb the medicine. During the second session, you will be exposed to blue light, which will eliminate the AK cells.
What should I expect with BLU-U Photodynamic Therapy?
When coming for treatment, ensure you carry anything that will protect you from sunlight after the treatment. This is because you should avoid direct sunlight for up to 40 hours after the procedure. Additionally, you should avoid household lights, tanning beds, and operating room lights after treatment.
Most people tolerate the process with no hitches. You may experience stinging or burning, but it doesn’t last for long. The treated areas may also show signs of crusting, but this also doesn’t last long. After a month, all these signs tend to subside.