Photodynamic Rejuvenation
(PDR) is an enhanced Skin Rejuvenation treatment, which
involves the combination of light-sensitising cream
with intense pulsed light (IPL).
What is PDR used for?
The main use for PDR is for sun-damaged skin with solar
keratoses (red, scaly patches on the skin), however the
technique is a valuable enhancement to Photo Rejuvenation
in many other cases.
What does the treatment involve?
PDR involves two stages. The first is the application
of a light-sensitising cream approximately 1 hour
prior to your IPL treatment. Our practitioner
will apply a thin layer to the affected areas of your
skin. We will then ask you to wait in the clinic until
your IPL treatment.
After the application of a thin gel,
the IPL handpiece is passed across the skin in an
even pattern, delivering
a light pulse at each point. The light energy activates
the cream resulting in the destruction of the target cells.
What else is required?
In many cases PDR may be made more effective by pre-treating
the affected areas of your skin with a skin cancer cream
for 4-6 days, to enable better penetration of light into sun-damaged areas of your skin.
What will happen after treatment?
Following treatment, the areas will be red, may swell
or blister and will sometimes weep a little before forming
fine scabs which will heal over in 5 to 7 days. You may
have some discomfort for 2 – 3 days which can be
relieved with Paracetamol. The strength of the reaction
is dependent on the pre-existing condition of your skin:
more sun-damaged skin requires stronger treatment to
achieve good results.
Three treatments, six weeks apart is recommended for best results.
What are the risks and complications?
IPL treatments have a very low overall complication
rate. Red or white scarring or depigmentation is
reported but
is very uncommon. Hyperpigmentation (brown spots) may
also occur, but this is rare, and more common in darker skin.
If you have any further questions,
call our clinic for a free consultation.
Skin Resus, Floreat Forum, Perth Western Australia T 9284 0900 |
