Photodynamic Therapy in Pasadena, CA

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a powerful, minimally invasive treatment that targets and destroys damaged or precancerous skin cells with exceptional precision. By combining a light-sensitive medication and pairing it with controlled light energy, PDT selectively eliminates abnormal tissue while preserving the surrounding healthy skin, making it an ideal option for conditions such as actinic keratosis, sun damaged skin, and certain types of acne.

At Comprehensive Dermatology Center of Pasadena, photodynamic therapy offers an effective and non-surgical solution to clearer, more vibrant skin with little to no downtime. Patients often experience clearer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin as PDT works to repair damage at a cellular level.

If you’re considering photodynamic therapy in Pasadena, contact us online or call out office at (626) 793-7790 today. Our Pasadena practice proudly serves patients throughout the Los Angeles area and beyond, proving expert dermatologic care tailored to your skin’s unique needs.[1] 

What Is Photodynamic Therapy?

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a medical treatment that uses a photosensitizing drug that becomes activated by light exposure and a light source.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is currently used in a number of medical fields, including dermatology (skin) and cosmetic surgery. At the Comprehensive Dermatology Center of Pasadena, we combine Ameluz gel (a porphyrin precursor) with red light photodynamic therapy, and this interaction creates a chemical reaction that destroys cells and creates smoother, blemish-free skin. This process is employed to treat a variety of skin conditions, which we have listed below.

Some of these include:

• Acne
• Rosacea
• Skin cancer
• Cosmetic skin improvement
• Enlarged sebaceous glands
• Wrinkles
• Oily skin
• Sun damage
• Rejuvenation or anti-aging
• Warts
• Hidradenitis Suppurativa
• Psoriasis

Photodynamic Therapy is not used to treat moles or birthmarks.

What Are the Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy?

The greatest advantage of Photodynamic therapy is its ability to selectively treat an entire area of skin damage. Photodynamic therapy generally decreases the likelihood of lighter or darker skin spots or post-inflammatory hyper or hypo pigmentation. Additionally, Photodynamic therapy may facilitate smoother skin and an overall improved appearance, tone, color, and enhanced textures.

Photodynamic therapy does have its limits however. It can only treat areas where light can reach so this means that it is mainly used to treat problems on the skin, just under the skin, or in the lining of internal organs. The drugs may travel throughout the body, but the treatment only works at the area that is exposed to light. Also, the drugs that are used in Photodynamic therapy leave people very sensitive to light for some time, so special precautions must be taken after the drugs are put in or on the body.

In summary, some of the benefits of Photodynamic Therapy are:

• Performed on an outpatient basis
• Relatively pain-free
• Less risk than surgical procedures
• It has no long-term side effects when used properly
• It is less invasive than surgery
• It usually takes only a short time and is most often done as an outpatient
• It can be targeted very precisely
• Unlike radiation, Photodynamic therapy can be repeated many times at the same site if needed
• There is little or no scarring after the site heals

What Can I Expect from My Photodynamic Therapy?

Depending on the area being treated and the recommended incubation time, different numbers of treatment sessions spaced four to six weeks apart may be required to achieve your desired improvement results. It is not always possible to predict ahead of time how many treatments your specific condition may take or how you will respond to Photodynamic therapy. This treatment will need your patience and your willingness to follow the post procedure instructions, including staying out of the sun depending on the area treated and your dermatologist’s requirements.

To achieve maximum improvement of pre-cancerous actinic keratosis sun damage, skin tone, and texture, a series of two to three treatments two to six weeks apart may be quite effective. Some patients with milder actinic keratosis are happy with one treatment but if not, more can be performed at periodic intervals in the future to maintain the rejuvenated appearance of your skin.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Photodynamic Therapy?

A strong candidate for photodynamic therapy is someone seeking a precise, non-surgical way to treat damaged or precancerous skin while also improving overall skin quality. PDT works by applying a light-sensitive medication to the skin and activating it with a specialized light source which allows it to selectively eliminate abnormal cells. While PDT is a versatile treatment, it’s not ideal for everyone, and a dermatologist should always evaluate your skin and medical history to determine whether you are a good fit.

People who tend to benefit most from PDT often include those with:

• Actinic keratoses
• Sun-damaged skin
• Acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments
• Preference for non-invasive treatments
• Fair to medium skin tones

PDT may not be suitable for individuals who are extremely sensitive to light, pregnant, or who are taking medications that increase photosensitivity.

Take the Next Step and Schedule a Consultation

If you’re considering photodynamic therapy, taking the next step begins with a personalized consultation at our Pasadena office. During your visit, our dermatology team will evaluate your skin, discuss your concerns, and design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. PDT can often deliver improvements in just one session, though some patients benefit from a series of treatments depending on the extent of sun damage or the number of precancerous lesions present.

Our center is fully equipped to provide safe PDT treatments in a comfortable setting, ensuring you receive the highest level of care from the green light all the way to the finish line. If you’re ready to restore healthier, clearer skin, schedule your consultation for photodynamic therapy in Pasadena and let us help you create a plan that supports your long-term skin health.

Photodynamic Therapy FAQs

How does photodynamic therapy work at the cellular level?  

PDT uses a photosensitizing skin agent that is absorbed by abnormal or damaged cells. When activated by a specific light source, it produces a reaction that destroys those targeted cells while leaving healthy tissue largely unaffected.

What skin conditions besides actinic keratoses can PDT help improve? 

In addition to precancerous lesions, PDT may help reduce redness, minimize pores, improve texture irregularities, and address certain inflammatory skin conditions.

Is photodynamic therapy safe for use on the face? 

Yes. PDT is commonly performed on the face because it can treat widespread sun damage and precancerous lesions while also offering cosmetic rejuvenation benefits.

How long does a typical PDT appointment take? 

Most sessions last 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the incubation time of the photosensitizing agent and the size of the treatment area.

What should I avoid before undergoing photodynamic therapy? 

Patients are usually advised to avoid tanning, excessive sun exposure, and certain photosensitizing medications prior to treatment. If you plan on being active in the sun or you have a job that requires you to be in the sun for extended periods of time, just be sure to wear protective wear and never forget your sunscreen.

What does the skin look like immediately after PDT? 

Mild redness, warmth, and peeling are common side effects at the beginning after a photodynamic therapy session. Some patients experience a sunburn‑like reaction as the damaged cells begin to shed, but these symptoms pass quickly. Be sure to keep your skin moisturized with a dermatologist recommended moisturizer.

How long should I avoid sunlight after photodynamic therapy? 

Strict sun avoidance is typically required for 5 to 7 days because the skin remains highly photosensitive during this period.

Can photodynamic therapy be combined with other dermatology treatments? 

PDT is often paired with chemical peels, topical therapies, or laser treatments to enhance your overall skin rejuvenation. If you have other skin concerns that you would like to address, be sure to mention them during your consultation and your dermatologist can curate a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.

Is photodynamic therapy effective for preventing future skin cancers? 

PDT can reduce the number of precancerous cells on sun‑damaged skin, which may help lower the risk of developing certain non‑melanoma skin cancers in the future.

How soon will I see results after photodynamic therapy? 

Many patients notice improvement within 1 to 2 weeks as redness subsides and damaged cells slough off.

Does photodynamic therapy require anesthesia? 

No. Most patients tolerate PDT well without the use of a topical anesthesia, though cooling devices or topical numbing may be used for comfort.

How often can photodynamic therapy be repeated? 

How often you should have treatment varies, but many patients undergo PDT once or twice a year for ongoing management of sun damage or recurring actinic keratoses.