In the case of acne we target the bacteria that are infecting follicles, eliminating the infection without the need for antibiotics or medications like Acutane. For cystic acne we will target the overactive sebaceous glands, shutting them down and returning your skin to its normal and beautifully calm state. In these treatments we often use an extraordinarily effective combination of specialized blue frequency light energy with ALA (Aminolevulinic acid) in a process called photodynamic Therapy. Amazingly, even the most severe acne cases, that may have persisted for years are eliminated, healing and rejuvenating the skin and returning it to its naturally beautiful calm state.

If you would like to talk to one of our experts about removing or reducing your acne, call 949.428.4500 or inquire online.

Side view of severe facial acne reduction

Women's facial acne removed dramatically

Men's severe back acne reduced

Though even sever cases routinely resolve for extended periods of time, depending on other factors such as the patient’s diet and hygiene, regular treatments may be needed from time to time. Please read below and Acne handout for additional details.

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PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY WITH ALA

What it is:

A new procedure is now available that treats active acne as well as older acne scars leaving your skin smoother. The procedure is called Photodynamic Acne Treatment (PDT) using Levulan. Levulan is a 20% solution of Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA), which is a natural substance found throughout your body.

Photodynamic Acne Treatment is process by which a photosensitizing agent (ALA) is applied to your skin. The ALA is then activated with a specific wavelength of light, which “turns it on.” ALA has been used extensively for the treatment of a variety of different skin conditions, and is approved by the FDA for a number of treatments including sun damaged skin and some precancerous skin lesions.

Acne results from the obstruction and inflammation of sebaceous glands, affecting 80% of the human population. Acne typically begins in adolescence with hormonal changes. However, there are many older individuals who suffer from “adult acne”. There are several different presentations of acne ranging from comedonal (blackheads and whiteheads), papular, pustular, and cystic acne. In many cases, a patient may be afflicted with all of these simultaneously.

Prior to Photodynamic Acne Treatment, the best available treatment option for cystic acne was Accutane. However, Accutane is complicated by many systemic side effects including birth defects, liver abnormalities, mood depression, very dry skin and night vision changes. PDT Acne treatment provides a viable alternative for all types of acne conditions.

How it works:

The Levulan (ALA) is applied to your skin and left on for 30-45 minutes (“Incubation). Levulan is a clear solution and painless. Once absorbed into your skin the ALA is activated with a specific wavelength of light in the blue spectrum. This takes about 10 minutes. Active cells such as Acneic sebaceous glands preferentially absorb ALA, and consequently when the ALA is activated by the blue light, a patient’s overactive sebaceous glands will be dramatically impacted, shutting them down. Hence the term “Photodynamic” therapy. The ALA will also target sebaceous hyperplasia (which are those small 1-3 mm bumps on your skin) and the papules of acne Rosacea. Skin oiliness is decreased, and the appearance of pores is minimized. The entire skin texture improves following a Photodynamic Acne Treatment.

After Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) the typical patient will be red and have skin peeling and crusting for several days after the treatment. (Please note pictures of actual patients). Usually, the first 2-3 days are the most intense. Complete resolution typically requires 2-3 weeks. Pressed mineral base foundation will hide most of the redness. We advise remaining indoors the day following your treatment to avoid sun exposure, as you are photosensitive for up to 48-hours after PDT.

The advantages of PDT are rapid treatment of acne lesions without scarring or surgical excision. The skin appears refreshed and younger following treatments. We advise 2-5 treatments at 3-4 week intervals between each treatment to obtain optimal results. There are no known systemic side effects.

In order to enhance the absorption of the ALA into the skin it is recommended that a portion of the outermost dead layer of skin be removed (Stratus Cornium) before applying the ALA. Typical methods include various scrubs or dermabrasion techniques. At AMA Corp a light Erbium laser peel is used, which is much more effective, extremely precise and safe, while greatly enhancing the results of the ALA PDT treatment. (The laser peel is included in the treatment price).

The procedure, step-by-step:

1. After thoroughly washing the targeted area, a topical anesthetic will be applied which will remain on your skin for approximately 30 minutes. (Anesthetic is needed only on the face)
2. After thoroughly washing the area again, the Erbium laser peel will administered.
3. After another thorough washing, the ALA will be applied and “incubated” on your skin for approximately 30-60 minutes.
4. After another thorough washing, a specialized blue-light will be applied to the targeted area for approximately 10 minutes.
5. In some cases, other specialized lasers may be used to target specific lesions on your skin
   in conjunction with the use of the blue light.
6. Depending on the length of ALA incubation, the targeted area will be typically red, from a mild “sunburn” appearance, to a dramatic dark red.
7. It is important to stay out of direct sunlight for 48-hours after the treatment. Use recommended sun-block, wide brim hats etc. if necessary.
8. Skin peeling and crusting is expected for several days after the treatment. (Please note pictures of actual patients). However, peeling does not always occur and the treatment is no less effective in such cases. Usually, the first 2-3 days are the most intense. Complete resolution typically requires 2-3 weeks. Pressed mineral base foundation will hide most of the redness.
9. Especially in darker skin types, hyper-pigmentation may occur. This is temporary and is treated with specialized “beaching” creams that are prescribed as needed.
10. During this peeling period, wash your face with recommended mild soap and warm water. Steamy showers will help the peeling skin “slough” off. Do not pick at it. Be gentle. Keep the area well moisturized with recommended moisturizers and medical-grade skin care formulations.
11. Before and after Computerized Complexion Analysis Photography will be taken to track the progress of the treatments. (Included in the price of the treatment)
12. Before you schedule any social engagements during the 2-week period after PDT treatment, be sure to take into account the redness, peeling and crusting that the treated area will probably experience during that period.

In cases where the patient also suffers from existing acne scarring, sun damage, age spots and wrinkles, PDT treatments can be customized along with other specialized protocols such as the various procedures incorporated into the CP5TM Laser Face-Lift (See CP5 Page).