Levulan treatment consists of applying topical aminolevulinic acid products to the skin and then activating the therapy using photodynamic light therapy. The active ingredients in this skin treatment respond to the light and enact multiple changes in the skin anatomy, potentially creating positive results for patients with a wide range of problematic issues. New and interesting uses for this skin regimen are constantly being developed and the future seems bright for this product.
This article helps patients to better understand the prospective benefits and limitations of skincare using aminolevulinic acid and photodynamic light therapy.
Levulan Benefits
Treatment using this particular skin care product is an all-inclusive therapy which can address multiple skin concerns all at one time. This adds synergy and value to the treatment, compared to using multiple individual methods of care to achieve the same results with other modalities.
This makes the combination of aminolevulinic acid and photodynamic light therapy a popular choice among value-conscious beauty consumers.
Once activated with the light therapy, this product forms a special type of oxygen in the skin. The process has the following potential benefits to patients:
- Helps exfoliate skin and remove dead cells.
- Helps eliminate acne scars and unaesthetic pigmentation issues.
- Helps resolve sun damage and age spots.
- Releases clogged pores and treats troublesome sebaceous glands.
- Reduces wrinkles and facial lines.
Levulan Summary
A great number of practical applications for this product have not been approved by the FDA, so a range of off-label treatments is the general rule.
Currently, despite the flexibility and versatility of this skin care product, it is indicated primarily for actinic keratosis.
To learn more about the many possible uses for aminolevulinic acid and blue light therapy, consult with a qualified dermatologist or find a cosmetic surgeon who offers treatment.
This product is also being researched as a preventative care regimen for skin cancer, since it actively treats pre-cancerous lesions and growths, possibly disallowing progression to malignant status.
Just be sure to ask your care provider about the potential risks of treatment and do lots of independent research before even considering using this product for off-label applications.