Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK) andcertain non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) like Bowen′s disease and superficial basal cell carcinoma. PDT has also shown efficacy in the management of acne vulgaris. 

Results from controlled clinical trials validate the safety and efficacy of PDT with the use of different photosensitizers and a wide range of light sources. PDT may be used as a monotherapy and in combination with other topicals and alternate light or laser energy therapies. 

The present article published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology provided expert practical guidance related to the newest 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) product (ALA 10% gel) plus red light use as monotherapy for AKs, NMSC and acne. PDT has also received FDA-approval for the treatment of AK in 1999. It has since been used extensively for lesion- and field-directed therapy of AKs with consistent efficacy. PDT has been compared to cryotherapy, and has proven better efficacy in complete lesion clearance. This modality also demonstrated comparable efficacy to imiquimod, chemical skin peels, diclofenac and 5-FU. Furthermore, PDT confers skin rejuvenating benefits against actinic degeneration and other aging effects of sun damage. 

Source: J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(10):E53-E65.