Levulan-Blu-U for Acne
Levulan-Blu-U is visible light therapy that works by creating a chemical reaction in hair follicles to kill acne-related bacteria. Eight treatments are needed to reduce acne for an extended duration (but it is not a cure!). Blu-U combined with Levulan (aminolevulinic acid) is called Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). Levulan is a chemical that increases the skin’s sensitivity to Blu-U (a photosensitizer). Think of Blu-U as a treatment option that takes the place of oral antibiotic therapy for acne. It is important to realize that topical acne products (topical antibiotics, topical retinoids, salicylic acid cleansers, etc.) are still an important part of the acne regimen when utilizing Blu-U therapy.
Levulan-Blu-U for Precancers and Thin Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
PDT is also very effective for the treatment of precancers called Actinic Keratoses (AKs). Usually only one treatment is required to clear many AKs. These are most often located on the face and ears, but other common sites are the hands, arms, legs and feet. When Basal Cell Carcinomas are the “superficial” type and Squamous Cell Carcinomas are the “in situ” type, PDT is a good choice for therapy of these cancers. Approximately 3 to 7 days of redness and scaling follow a PDT session. Sun must be avoided on the day of treatment and the day after treatment.
For more information on Photodynamic Therapy, please visit our Phototherapy Center.
