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Please click here for before and after photo's
One of the most exciting developments in the treatment of photoaging, acne, rosacea and even early skin cancer (actinic keratosis). Levulan(5-aminolevulinic acid) is a photosensitizer that when applied to the skin binds preferentially to damaged tissue and glands. When this compound is activated by light and/or laser at a specific wavelength it destroys diseased areas such as actinic keratoses, sun spots/age spots, and shrinks glands as well as elliminating superficial spider veins. The result equates to a powerful yet safe modality to treat cutaneous photodamage ( manifested by skin blotchiness, actinic keratoses and ruddiness). It is also effective for the treatment of rosacea, acne, shrinking large pores and removing sebaceous cysts.
This treatment has revolutionized our approach to the treatment of diffuse sundamage. This not only treats existing discrete Actinic keratoses but allows us to treat entire anatomic areas such as face, neck, chest, arms, hands and even legs that have significant photodamage. Skin becomes smoother, softer, even toned, with a healthier vibrant glow as the old skin gradually peels away over the ensuing few days. The transformation in patients skin is simply remarkable in a very short period of time. Our patients are thrilled with the results and wonder why more dermatologists are not offering this breakthrough modality.
We have been doing this treatment since it was first FDA approved 2 years ago on hundreds of satisfied patients. This skin rejuvenation procedure far exceeds the results of simple photofacial treatments with IPL's(Intense pulsed light). The results are faster and more medically beneficial to photodamaged skin. Patients feel good that this not only addresses their cosmetic concerns but reduces their risk of developing skin cancer down the road. |
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Before
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Our treatment protocol involves first a thorough cleansing of the skin followed by a light microdermabrasion to remove surface dead skin. This is then followed by an acetone scrub. This allows for even penetration of Levulan into the skin. Levulan is then left on for 45-90 min's depending on the area being treated. This is followed by activation with a light source such as Vbeam(Pulsed dye Laser) and /or Blu-U Light.
Following the treatment the skin appears pink and "sunburned" for a period of 2-4 days. This may be followed by some light peeling of the skin gradually revealing a more youthful, vibrant and healthier skin.
Feedback from our patients has been excellent due to the relative noninvasive nature of the treatment and limited post recovery period. They are very pleased with the overall improvement in skin tone, texture, reduction in pore size, # of acne lesions as well as the reduction in ruddiness and breakouts for our rosacea patients. Results often surpass people's expectations and makes for very happy patients. Not only is their skin transformed but along with it their self esteem and confidence level.
We often complement this treatment with other rejuvenation procedures such as Thermalift to address tissue laxity, fillers to Sculpt and add volume back to the face,Botox to relax muscles and soften deeper forehead lines and crows feet. Science based skin care is also added so that patients will continue to maintain the results we have worked hard to achieve for many years to come. Retinoids for tissue repair and regeneration, antioxidants such as topical idebenone (Prevage MD), Topical Vitamin C and peptide serums all combine for a powerful antiaging cocktail.
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