Acne Laser Treatment in Tucson

Levulan® PDT – More Than Just Acne Treatment

Levulan® PDT isn’t limited to treating acne. It also addresses a variety of other skin concerns, offering visible improvements in:

• Moderate to severe cystic acne

• Precancerous skin lesions

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Enlarged pores

• Uneven skin texture

• Irregular pigmentation

• Sebaceous hyperplasia (overactive oil glands)

How the Levulan® PDT Procedure Works

Treatment combines effectiveness with simplicity. It starts with the application of a Levulan® topical solution to the affected skin. After several minutes, the skin becomes more sensitive to light exposure.

Once the solution has fully absorbed—typically after 45 to 60 minutes—we proceed with an IPL (intense pulsed light) treatment. This session can last up to 20 minutes. While some clients experience mild discomfort, it usually fades quickly and disappears completely within 48 hours.

Following treatment, many clients notice temporary redness and occasional swelling. However, these effects are short-lived. Redness typically resolves within four weeks, while swelling subsides within one to two days.

For patients who haven’t seen success with Accutane, Levulan® presents a safe and effective alternative. Unlike Accutane, which can cause systemic side effects, Levulan® works topically and offers targeted results without affecting the entire body.

What to Expect During Treatment

• Application of  the Levulan® solution directly to your skin

• After one hour, we activate the solution with IPL or blue light

• Topical anesthetic may be applied to enhance comfort

• Protective goggles are provided to shield your eyes

• During the session, you might feel tingling, stinging, or mild burning, but these sensations fade quickly

• For the next 48 hours, it’s essential to avoid sunlight and bright indoor lighting

• Your skin may turn red and slightly swollen for 3–7 days

• Some crusting might occur as the skin heals

• Most clients report only mild discomfort, without significant pain

• Any remaining redness generally fades within a few days and can be concealed with makeup

Treatment Frequency and Results

We recommend a series of three treatments spaced one to four weeks apart to achieve optimal results. In addition to this initial series, maintenance sessions can help extend the benefits. Should an acne flare-up occur, we’re able to treat it promptly.

Potential Disadvantages

While Levulan® PDT is safe, it may cause some temporary side effects. Peeling and redness often occur and can last between two and seven days. Most importantly, avoiding sun exposure in the first 24 hours is critical. Failing to do so may lead to an intensified skin reaction. Because skin responses vary, repeat sessions may be needed to achieve full results.

Key Benefits of Acne Laser treatment with Levulan® PDT

This treatment offers many advantages that make it an excellent option for skin rejuvenation:

• Minimal side effects and a fast recovery time

• A painless, non-invasive experience

• Reduction in acne scarring and oiliness

• Smaller pores and smoother skin tone

• Ideal for treating sensitive or cosmetic-priority areas of the face

In addition, Levulan® PDT provides:

• Natural-looking cosmetic result

• No need for needles or surgical procedures

• Comfortable, in-clinic experience

• High patient satisfaction with long-term results

Pre-Treatment Checklist: What to Do Before Your Session

Prepare for your appointment and ensure the best outcome. Please follow these guidelines:

• If you have a history of cold sores (Herpes simplex type I), begin taking Valtrex 500 mg twice daily, starting the morning of your appointment. We’ll provide a prescription if needed

• Arrive with clean skin, free from makeup, moisturizers, and sunscreen

• Bring protective items like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a scarf for post-treatment care

• You’ll need to sign a consent form before we begin

• We perform an acetone scrub to enhance absorption of Levulan®. In some cases, microdermabrasion may also be included for better results

• Before the procedure begins, our team will take clinical photographs of the treatment area

Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Laser Treatment