Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a new and exciting breakthrough in the treatment of acne and sun-damaged skin. Originally developed for the treatment of certain types of cancer, scientists soon began to realize that other clinical conditions responded effectively to this groundbreaking technology. PDT may be performed on most areas of the body, including the face, neck, décolleté, arms and hands. During photodynamic therapy, a topical solution called Levulan® (aminolevulinic acid HCL) is applied with a cotton swab on the areas to be treated. Levulan® is a photosensitizer that is activated by the use of pulsed light treatment. Levulan® dramatically increases the effectiveness of acne and rejuvenation treatments with incredible results. Levulan® attacks acne in two ways: by killing pimple-causing surface bacteria and shrinking sebaceous oil glands. When used with other rejuvenation procedures such as Photo Facial;, results are powerfully enhanced. Known as the "Power Photo Facial;" many clients feel that it takes three Photo Facials® without the use of Levulan® to equal one treatment with it. Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy is the treatment of choice for clients who absolutely want the latest and greatest in skincare technology. Some commonly asked questions How does it work? Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy uses a photosensitizer, Levulan®, with pulsed light to destroy surface bacteria, improve skin texture, shrink pores and sebaceous oil glands, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve pigmentation. How many sessions will it take? Each person's skin is different, but typically, one to three treatments are given to produce amazing results. Is PDT painful? Most clients report a burning or stinging sensation during treatment. Some also experience mild burning or itching for about one hour after treatment, and even up to one or two days. Will PDT irritate the skin? Slight swelling, itching and mild burning are common following PDT. Swelling can be minimized with the use of ice packs. It is also not unusual for the skin to appear somewhat red and flaky following treatment. Is the treatment safe? Levulan® was approved by the FDA in 1999. It is important to note that because a trace of the activated substance may remain on the skin for several hours after treatment, you should avoid all sun and bright light for at least 48 hours following treatment. Will other methods of treatment be used in conjunction with PDT? At Physicians Skin Institute, we deliver the very best in customized skincare to our valuable clients. We do not view our clients as "package deals" or "one size fits all." Our highly trained and certified aestheticians and laser technicians believes that skincare should be as individual as you are and as a result, we often combine different skincare procedures to achieve the best results and happy, satisfied clients. Why is Physicians Skin Institute the best medical spa for Levulan® Photodynamic Therapy? Featuring a diverse Medical Advisory board of doctors and our friendly team of aestheticians, certified laser technicians, nurses and massage therapists, you will be in excellent hands at PSI. We are the only medical spa in Arizona that has a sister company (www.nationallaserinstitute.com) housed in the same building, where we offer Laser Certification and training courses. As the first in Arizona to set the standard in excellence, we are laser education pioneers that will ensure you the highest level of quality service. Laser and light-therapy skincare are not something we take lightly-we utilize these treatments every single day, and our highly trained staff is the very best at what they do. To ensure that each one of our clients receives total comfort and outstanding results, we have carefully selected the absolute best equipment that modern technology has to offer. We are the only medical spa in Arizona that guarantees that our laser technicians are not only certified, but also have completed a rigorous training course at the National Laser Institute, founded by our principals. At PSI, safety is our number one priority, and our staff has the proven background to help you achieve your skin care goals. 16601 North 90th Street Scottsdale, Arizona 85260 480.222.4640 : customerservice@psiscottsdale.com