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Levulan: is a photosensitiving chemical that is applied to the skin before using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to increase the response to the light therapy. This combination of this chemical with a light device works best to reduce visible sun damage such as patchy discoloration, age spots, broken capillaries and fine lines. After the treatment the skin looks and feels smoother and pores appear smaller. For those who have scaly precancerous spots, IPL with Levulan works as well in 1 week as the prescription cream that causes crusting for up to 4 weeks. It has also been found to be excellent for treating acne, usually decreasing breakouts for several months after a series of 3 treatments.
 
Before and after Photodynamic Therapy, Photo by C. Elliott, MD
What to expect from Photodynamic Therapy: Best results are usually obtained with a series of 3 treatments, at least 3 weeks apart. A clear solution of photosensitizing chemical is painted onto the area to be treated and left on for 1 hour. This is followed by a treatment with the IPL device as described above in the laser treatment discussion, requiring about 20 minutes to perform. There is a snapping sensation when the treatment is done but anesthetic cream will usually make the procedure painless.
Recovery and complications from Photodynamic Therapy: Following treatment the skin is often red and may feel sunburned for the first 2 days. The skin becomes tight and brown spots appear darker until days 3-5, when peeling occurs. Because of the intense photosensitization that increases the effectiveness of the IPL device, sun exposure is to be strictly avoided for 48 hours after treatment.
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