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Photodynamic Treatment

Photodynamic Treatment services offered in Huntington Beach, CA

Photodynamic treatment uses a combination of photosensitizing medications and light energy to address persistent skin conditions like cancer and psoriasis. At California Dermatology Physicians, Joseph Sedrak, MD, and Laura Cohen, MD, specialize in photodynamic treatments to treat various skin issues during an in-office visit. They also offer comprehensive after-care services to protect your skin from sun damage during recovery. Call the Huntington Beach, California, office to find out if you’re a candidate for photodynamic treatment, or book an appointment online today.

What is photodynamic treatment?

Photodynamic treatment is a two-stage process that uses light therapy and photosensitizer medications to destroy precancerous or cancerous cells that result from sun damage.

This therapy can also be an effective treatment for viral, fungal, and bacterial infections that develop in the skin, as well as chronic skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.

California Dermatology Physicians offers photodynamic treatments in-office for adults and adolescents aged 12 and up. They provide comprehensive skin evaluations to determine if this type of treatment is right for you and your skin condition. 

What can I expect during photodynamic treatment?

During your photodynamic treatment appointment at California Dermatology Physicians, you take a photosensitizer. The medication is available in pill form, applied to your skin, or delivered intravenously through a vein. They concentrate in cancerous and other abnormal cells to make them more sensitive to light.

Your dermatology specialist then shines a special laser light on the treatment area. The light causes a chemical reaction in the photosensitizers that destroys the abnormal cells.

Treatment times for photodynamic therapy depend on the size of the treatment area. You can expect to go home to start your recovery after your procedure is complete.

Many people recover fully within six weeks, depending on the condition they’re treating. However, you should be able to return to your usual activities right away. The providers teach you how to care for your skin while you heal.

How do I care for my skin after photodynamic treatment?

After a photodynamic treatment, your skin is extra sensitive to light for several weeks or months. California Dermatology Physicians may recommend bandages to cover your skin and protect it from sunlight and artificial lights. You should also stay indoors when possible and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

If you have swelling, discoloration, or other skin issues in the treatment area, the providers can customize a care plan to treat them. They also monitor your recovery progress to ensure you don’t develop an infection or other complication.

Call California Dermatology Physicians to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online today.