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Photodynamic Therapy to Treat Skin Conditions

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be used to treat a wide range of dermatological concerns. During treatment a light sensitive drug is applied topically to the treatment area. Patients are then required to wait a period (from 1 hour to a few days) to allow the agent to permeate damaged cells. Healthy cells quickly rid themselves of the agent, so when the treatment area is later exposed to a light source of the dermatologists choosing, damaged cells are destroyed while healthy cells remain.

PDT can help to treat pre-skin cancers called actinic keratosis which, left untreated, can become deadly cancers. Depending on the photosynthesizing agent used, light treatment can also help patients who suffer from skin conditions like acne, rosacea, large pores, wrinkles, pigmentation issues, hair loss and more. By minimizing pore size and oil glands, PDT helps improve skin texture for a clearer and brighter complexion.

Allumera® Skin Treatment for Acne, Sun Spots, and Oily Skin

Allumera® is the latest addition to Dermatology Associates of Atlanta's menu of services to help patients achieve a smoother, clear complexion free from signs of aging and other troubling skin conditions. Allumera® is a new topical cream in the class of photodynamic cosmetic treatments, meaning the active ingredients in the product are stimulated through exposure to a controlled light source.

During a treatment, Allumera® is applied to the treatment area and allowed to soak in for about 60 minutes. By allowing the skin to absorb the product, damaged cells absorb the active ingredients and respond to the light. After the hour-long absorption period, the cream is washed from the surface of the face, and the treatment area is illuminated with the light-source of your skincare provider's choosing (based on your skincare needs). The light therapy works to destroy damaged skin cells for a brighter, clearer complexion. In a survey performed three months after patients' most recent Allumera® treatment,

• 93% of people said their skin felt softer
• 91% of people said their skin felt more hydrated, moisturized and smoother
• 89% of people said their skin texture was improved
• 86% of people said their skin looked and felt healthier

Not only does Allumera® work for patients looking for a more gentle rejuvenation than other anti-aging treatments may offer, but it can also aid patients with oily skin, sun spots, and acne-prone skin. While other treatments may cause unpleasant side effects, Allumera® offers a treatment option with minimal downtime and few side effects.

Contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta today for more information on Allumera® or to schedule your consultation.

 

Allumera® FAQ

What is Allumera®?

Allumera® is a cream that is applied to the treatment area to help the overall appearance of skin, producing a brighter complexion, minimizing signs of aging, and reducing the appearance of pores.

Am I a candidate for Allumera®?

Allumera® photodynamic treatment is available to both men and women seeking a clearer, brighter complexion. Individuals who would like to refresh their look without exposure to harsher chemicals or more aggressive treatments make great candidates. Those with noticeable signs of aging like subtle crow's feet, uneven skin tone, and/or increased pore size will benefit from Allumera® treatment.

How long does treatment with Allumera® take?

IAllumera® treatments last about an hour. Patients are encouraged to bring their iPods to listen to music while the cream is soaking into the skin because the treatment can be very relaxing as well as beneficial to skin appearance. To achieve optimal results, patients are encouraged to undergo a series of three Allumera® treatments, with one treatment every four weeks depending on skin type.

What areas can Allumera® treat?

Allumera® is currently approved to treat skin on the face. However, positive results mean that it's now being studied for other treatment areas as well.

What does treatment with Allumera® feel like?

Many patients feel mild to moderate tingling or prickling during treatment. Others experience a stinging or burning sensation. Severe pain with Allumera® is rare.

What are the side effects of Allumera® and light therapy?

Along with a sensation of mild prickling or tingling, some patients experience mild redness that usually disappears with a few days after treatment. Patients are directed to avoid sun exposure after Allumera® photodynamic treatment and to wear SPF 30 sunscreen to maintain results.

When should I see results from my Allumera® treatment?

Allumera® patients should begin to see results within the first few days after treatment with results lasting three months after the procedure.