Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Pre & Post Care Instructions

Pre-treatment
  • Block out time in your schedule for about 2-3 hour appointment.
  • Do NOT undergo this treatment if you have been diagnosed with photosensitizing conditions such as lupus, or take any medications such as antibiotics, diabetic medications, or diuretics (water pills).
  • Notify our office if you are on blood thinners, as these may result in a more exuberant response (increased swelling, crusting, bleeding).
  • Do NOT shave the area to be treated on the day of the procedure, as this can sensitize the skin. Please shave the day prior to treatment.
  • Expect a medication called Ameluz to be applied to your face in the office for 1-2 hours prior to undergoing light treatment, we recommend bringing a book, magazine, or iPad for use during this waiting period and the treatment.
  • Bring a large hat and sunglasses with you to use after treatment.
  • If you have a history of cold sores, let us know BEFORE your visit so we can call in your oral antiviral medication.
  • Notify our office if you have a history of porphyria.
  • Sometimes we give medication to help you sleep. We will provide the prescription for the medication at the visit.
  • Sometimes we give medication to help you sleep. We will provide the prescription for the medication at the visit.
Post-treatment
  • DO NOT GO IN THE SUN FOR 48 HOURS AFTER TREATMENT. This includes staying away from skylights or bright windows. WEAR SUNSCREEN IN THE HOUSE IF YOU HAVE WINDOWS. We recommend a physical blocker only like Elta Replenish or Elta Pure until skin is healed.
  • Expect to have tingling and burning sensations like a bad sunburn. It is very hot, BUT healing begins as soon as it is complete.
  • Cool the skin with Avene thermal water or icepacks as needed. IF YOU USE ICE, DO NOT LEAVE ON SKIN FOR MORE THAN 3-5 MINUTES PER HOUR. You may take an analgesic such as Tylenol, Advil or Motrin for any pain and swelling as directed.
  • Wash with a gentle cleanser (Vanicream, Avene, Cetaphil, or CeraVe). Women, it is ok to wear makeup if the skin is not broken or crushed.
  • For crusty areas or scabs we recommend cicalfate healing balm multiple times per day. This helps prevent infection and makes things heal fast. It is ok to apply this to the whole face as well if it feels good.
  • Use post procedure ointment or cream a minimum of 6 times per day to keep the skin moist (Vanicream, Vaseline, Aquaphor, Cerave, Cetaphil) and to reduce tightness and peeling.
  • Do NOT pick, scrub, or shave until the skin is back to normal.
  • Use a sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide daily. If you experience stinging, wear a large hat until the skin can tolerate sunscreen. Once skin is normal, you may resume your preferred SPF.
  • Do NOT use acid-based products or retinols such as Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, or tretinoin until skin is back to normal.
  • Do NOT undergo procedures such as peels, facials, waxing, and microdermabrasion for 2 weeks.
  • Expect redness that can persist for about 4 weeks. This is ok to cover with makeup.
  • Shaving can be resumed 5-7 days post treatment.
PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS AT (504) 226- 7873.