Sun Damaged Skin Treatment

Photodynamic therapy is an effective treatment for repair of sun-damaged and aging skin. Not only does it reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, it also aims to improve the quality and appearance of the skin.

The skin is the biggest organ in our body which can become sun-damaged following years of sun exposure.

Sun-damaged skin often presents as rough, red scaly skin. This is a concern as it greatly increases the risk of developing skin cancer in future.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an effective treatment for sun-damaged skin. Not only does it reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, it also aims to improve the quality and appearance of the skin.

Extensively sun-damaged Skin treated with 2 sessions of photodynamic therapy

Sun-damaged skin treated with 1 session of photodynamic therapy

Sun-damaged lower lip treated with one session of PDT

Sun-damaged skin treated with one session of PDT

How does PDT work?

It is a simple non-invasive treatment, comprising the application of a cream or spray (5-ALA) to the sun-damaged areas, followed by exposure to special blue or red light. The treatment takes one hour and is completely painless and safe.

The active ingredient (5-ALA) is selectively absorbed by sun-damaged cells. When exposed to the blue or red light, the sun-damaged cells are destroyed by a chemical reaction whilst normal cells are preserved.

Downtime varies from a few days up to two weeks.

The cost of PDT is not covered under Medicare, although some private health insurance companies provide a rebate for this treatment.