Photodynamic acne therapy has become the latest source of hope for acne sufferers whose conditions have failed to improve despite numerous medicinal and conventional treatments. Photodynamic acne therapy involves applying a topical solution to the affected areas of the body and using a light source to target and eventually destroy acne-causing bacteria. Due to the complex nature of the treatment, it is one that is typically given in dermatology offices as well as medical spas. While there are several benefits to receiving this advanced type of treatment, photodynamic acne therapy does come with a set of distinct disadvantages. Dr. Ulysses Agpaoa is medical director at Hudson Laser Skin Care, a New Jersey-based medical spa, and he feels that patients should be well-informed about the advantages and disadvantages inherent in photodynamic treatment of acne.
Pros:
1. Photodynamic acne therapy comes with fewer side effects than most alternative treatments. While certain medications can cause severe mood swings and depression, photodynamic acne treatment does not take a mental toll on the patient.
2. In many situations, a patient will only require a couple of photodynamic acne treatment sessions to clear up an otherwise stubborn case of acne. Other types of acne therapy require frequent follow-ups and repeated procedures.
3. Photodynamic acne therapy not only treats acne, but improves the overall appearance of the skin by reducing acne scarring from previous outbreaks. The treatment also works to make the overall texture of the skin look better.
4. Photodynamic acne therapy works! Where many other treatment options and medications might have failed, photodynamic acne therapy is known for its success in treating even the most difficult of cases.
Cons:
1. Photodynamic acne therapy often causes acne to get worse before it gets better. Within three to seven days following the initial treatment, the skin has a tendency to turn red and swollen. Some crusting and peeling of the skin may occur as well. While this type of setback is only temporary, it can serve as a bit of an emotional blow.
2. Photodynamic acne therapy is not pain-free. While most patients would describe the procedure as “uncomfortable” rather than “intensely painful,” a fair degree of discomfort is associated with this type of treatment. The good news is that the pain does tend to subside following the completion of the therapy session. However, some patients do experience a degree of lingering discomfort in the first few days following the procedure.
3. Photodynamic acne therapy is rather costly, and although many doctors will agree that the treatment is medically necessary, plenty of insurance companies simply will not cover it. A good medical spa will work with a patient whose insurance company won’t step up to the plate to come up with a monthly payment plan that makes the treatment more affordable. But after all is said and done, the patient in such a situation is still responsible for eventually covering the cost of the therapy in full.
If you’re considering photodynamic acne therapy, then it’s important that you schedule a consultation with your dermatologist or medical spa professional and get the information necessary to help you make an informed decision. In some cases, photodynamic acne treatment might not be necessary, nor might it be the best course of action for the specific condition at hand. However, if you do decide to try photodynamic acne therapy, then rest assured that the benefits of treatment are likely to greatly outweigh the drawbacks.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
