PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY AND ACNE

Photodynamic therapy has been used for some years now for the treatment of acne. It is well-known in the medical literature that sunlight exposure improves acne, as seen when we go on vacation and spend time on the beach. Numerous antibiotic therapies, such as tetracycline and other topical medications, work better after light exposure, as the light acts as a photosensitizer, activating the molecules within the medication/substance. The microbial cause of acne, P. acnes, produces porphyrins that absorb UV light at 415 nm, the blue spectrum. Irradiation of the skin with blue light at this wavelength activates the porphyrins, which subsequently create free radical oxygen species that can destroy the bacterium. Moreover, light can destroy pilosebaceous glands when treated with a photoactivating drug, and decrease oily skin. Blue light alone can provide much improvements in skin.

Treatment with phototherapy occures when other methods have failed, as this method takes much time and commitment to come to the skin clinic often for the treatments. A total of 4 treatments are recommended over a month, and the effects usually last for about half a year to a full year. When the acne returns, it is usually milder than before. More therapy can ensue, however, caution must be taken as light itself is damaging to skin and can provoke other lesions.