Levulan

What is Levulan® Kerastick®?

Levulan® Kerastick®, or Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT), removes superficial layers of sun damaged skin, acne, acne scars, fine lines and hyperpigmentation, leaving a healthier more youthful appearance. Levulan® Kerastick® also permanently reduces the size of sebaceous glands, limiting the occurrence of acne lesions. While the most common treatment areas are the face, neck and décolleté, Levulan® Kerastick® can be used on any area of the body with acne, sun damage or fine lines.

What does treatment involve?

Levulan® Kerastick® is a two step procedure. The first step involves preparing the skin and applying the Levulan® Kerastick® to the treatment area. The sun can activate the Levulan® Kerastick® in the skin, so we schedule you as the last treatment of the day to limit any light exposure after application. Bring a hat, sunglasses and something to thoroughly cover your face for the trip home. The next morning and on your way to your activation appointment, the same precautions should be taken to prevent premature activation from the sun. During the second part of the procedure, a technician activates the Levulan® Kerastick® with Intense Pulsed Light.

What results can I expect?

Levulan® Kerastick® is especially effective at minimizing the appearance of acne or acne scarring. For sun damage, you will notice that sun spots lighten or disappear completely! Fine lines become less noticeable. The texture of your skin is smoother and more vibrant, with a natural glow.

How many treatments are needed?

Generally, 1-3 treatments yield the desired result. Each treatment is performed at 6-8 week intervals.

How much recovery time following treatment?

After treatment, your skin will appear red, like a sunburn, and feel warm for 24 hours. It will stay red for 7-10 days, but the warmth will dissipate after the first day. If you are correcting acne, oil in the sebaceous glands will surface, and peeling will start to occur around the fourth day. For correcting sun damage, the spots will surface, appearing like coffee grounds, and peeling will start around the fourth day.Treatments on the body take longer to heal than the face.