Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment that uses light-activated medication to target and destroy abnormal cells, from precancerous lesions and early-stage skin cancers to stubborn acne that hasn't responded to other approaches.
Our board-certified dermatologists use PDT to deliver precise, targeted results with minimal impact on the surrounding healthy skin.
What is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic therapy works by applying a light-sensitive solution to the skin, which is then absorbed by abnormal or rapidly dividing cells. When activated with a specific wavelength of light, the solution destroys those targeted cells while leaving healthy tissue intact. It's a treatment rooted in precision: effective, evidence-based, and performed in-office by our clinical team.
PDT is used across both our medical and skin cancer service lines and, in some cases, can complement aesthetic treatments by improving skin tone and texture alongside its clinical benefits.
You may be a good candidate if you have:
Results may include:
What Happens at Your Appointment?
Your PDT experience is straightforward from start to finish, consisting of a brief in-office treatment with no anesthesia required and no downtime in the traditional sense. Here's how it unfolds.
Consultation
Treatment
You're Done
Your Experience With Photodynamic Therapy
PDT delivers results gradually as your body clears treated cells and the skin heals. Most patients complete 1 to 3 sessions, depending on the condition being treated and the size of the area. Your provider will outline a personalized plan at your consultation.
The skin response after PDT is part of the treatment working. Redness, peeling, and sensitivity in the days following your session are signs that the solution has activated and the targeted cells are clearing. Knowing what to expect at each stage helps you feel confident throughout the process.
Timeline at a Glance
Nationally Recognized Leaders in Photodynamic Therapy
Board-Certified Dermatologists and Mohs Surgeons
In-House Dermatopathology
Connected Care Across 100+ Locations
What Patients Are Saying
Reyna A.
My experience was the best first time with them and i already scheduled my next appointment
helloMACkitty
When you walk through the doors of Anne Arundel Dermatology, you know it’s going to be a pleasant visit. I have been there twice and the front desk staff have been consistently professional, pleasant, and inviting. As far as dermatology services, I see Allison Scaduto. She is very cordial and personable. I will continue to see her in the future. The front waiting area, patient rooms, and the restrooms are very clean and welcoming. This is quite important to me as is the friendliness of the staff and Allison Scaduto. I would “highly” recommend this office to anyone seeking exceptional dermatology service!
Sandy H.
Great place, everyone extra great and listened.
Jennifer M.
Brittany is amazing! The whole staff is friendly and personable. Just a great place overall. Always very pleased with the results of my procedures.
Shannon P.
Holly & Dr Ponte were fantastic!
Candace M.
We had a wonderful experience at this dermatology office! The staff was kind, patient, and understanding with my son, and we never felt rushed. The wait was minimal, and everyone was friendly and professional. We truly appreciate how comfortable they made us feel and would definitely recommend
Stella S.
I genuinely had the most positive experience here. I drove to the wrong location and the lovely lady at the front desk worked with me and managed to squeeze me in with a PA. The PA was wonderful and took her time with me even though I wasn’t supposed to be there. Lovely group
Tracy C.
Janet Benton NP is the best at what she does. She’s kind, gentle and a great listener. I can’t recommend her enough.
A. B. Cavalone
Dr. Becker was thorough, knowledgeable and nice. I feel safe under his watch.
Alex T.
Managed my fungus
Olivia M.
I can honestly give this office and Dr. April Boswell five stars. I am very glad that I found her. She is patient and gives detailed answers to your questions. Very happy here.
Mary D.
Debbie McLanahan and her staff, from the receptionist to the nurses, are exceptional. My husband has Alzheimer's and everyone made him feel safe and comfortable. I will highly recommend Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Center Sellersville to my family and friends.
Jose N.
I've been going to Azalea for years and get an annual skin check, Megan Ferritto has been my provider for the last several years and she makes the entire process easy
Ty Frederick
Excellent Service
Betti F.
My appointment was with Dr Prussick yesterday. I want to give a shout out to the office staff, all very friendly and helpful. Dr Prussick also listened to my concerns and addressed them quickly. I’m very disappointed that the practice is part of networks of medical practices purchased by private equity firms. These firms have a reputation for putting profits above patients, cutting corners while increasing patient costs. They know nothing about dermatology and patient care and could care less.
Kathleen D.
The dr was so kind, gentle and best bed side manor.
Becka W.
Appointment went smoothly everyone was friendly and wait time was fast.
Angela P.
I was very pleased with the staff they made me feel very important. I had gone to another one first and was not treated well at all and they did nothing for me. Today I was so happy to have a good Dermatologist. I will tell everyone that needs to go to one to come to this place.
Roger L.
No waiting in lobby, went right in at appointment time and Dr. saw me right away. No waiting, no stress. Update 7/29/25 - Still a great experience every time!
Kathy T.
Dr Sabini is an amazing dr. She’s very thorough and found a very tiny melanoma and I’m not sure anyone else would have !!
Kathy T.
Carrie Tauscher is so pleasant over the phone. Very efficient and answered all of my questions.
Kathy T.
I'm so pleased I went there. They are friendly and I felt I had great care. Her expertise is very impressive. She treated some pre-cancerous cells at my first appointment! I didn't give a 5 star because it took 3 months to get an appointment.
Kathy T.
I recently had my first visit to Anne Arundel Dermatology in Westminster for a small growth on my face. It was very easy to schedule an appointment right online and was also able to upload my relevant insurance information and identification. The office is very nice, and you are able to answer your health history questions right on a nice iPad like tablet. I saw Dr Marianne Dawn. She was very friendly and told me I had a seborrheic keratosis. She said she could freeze it off right then and there. So, five minutes later I was done! She told me how to treat it over the next couple weeks and now there is no sign of it whatsoever. I would definitely recommend the practice to anyone looking for a dermatologist and will use them again myself if I need any dermatological care.
Kathy T.
I had such a wonderful experience with Dr. Sabini. She went out of her way to squeeze me in for an appointment, which I truly appreciated. From the moment I saw her, I felt comfortable and well cared for. She was gentle, knowledgeable, efficient, and made everything feel easy. I don’t normally see her at the Suwanee office, but after this visit I was so impressed. I also ran into a problem with a new credit card, and Sam Coad, the site manager, immediately stepped in and saved the day. Her kindness and helpfulness made an already great visit even better. Dr. Sabini and the Suwanee team made me feel genuinely cared for. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for a warm, professional, and positive experience. Five stars!
Kathy T.
I was able to get in very quickly, and the location was very close to where we are. The staff was friendly and professional. Debbie at the front desk was welcoming with a smile. The first one who called me back to the exam room(I’m sorry I didn’t catch her name) was super kind and professional with a great sense of humor. I saw Whitney and she was very knowledgeable , she offered to answer my questions and give reassurance during my visit. She had a comforting bedside manner. The visit was very quick, but it was to be expected in my particular case. I felt like she would have taken the time needed if I had more questions or concerns. Would like to be a repeat patient next time we are in the area.
Kathy T.
Zoe and the staff there are very professional and very knowledgeable about all the issues I had!! got 4 cut off and am working on getting the rest burned off!! Zoe makes you feel like it's no big deal she knows what she is doing!! I had a spot for 4 years and she said I have an aggressive carcinoma type of cancer and Zoe and the staff cut it out and got it all the very first time!! I have had spots pop up and one call to them and I was in with in days and cut a piece for biopsy 3 days later got the call and 3 days later was getting them addressed!!! Anytime I have a spot of any kind of questions they get right back with answers!!!
Kathy T.
The care I received was excellent! All my concerns were addressed and appropriately treated. I thank them for understanding and help. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of dermatology care!
Kathy T.
Jennifer Abbot is absolutely the best ! Would recommend her
Kathy T.
I had an outstanding experience with Allie Yatros. She was warm, professional, and incredibly attentive. She took the time to listen carefully to my concerns, asked thoughtful questions, and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. She is extremely knowledgeable and made me feel so comfortable! I highly recommend her to anyone!! The office staff was also wonderful- efficient, friendly, and organized. I cannot say enough good things about Allie Yatros and staff at the Swann office!
Kathy T.
I’m a new patient and I’m here to stay. I was so thrilled with how everything was handled. Olivia was amazing!! She listened to my concerns. Made me feel so comfortable. Definitely recommending her! And this location. I always dread going to the dermatologist, but definitely not here. Wonderful practice! Thank you all so much!
Kathy T.
Great facility, excellent staff and service - highly recommended.
Kathy T.
Shannan H was wonderful. She took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the procedure and helped put me at ease. Her calm and caring approach made the entire experience much more comfortable.
Kathy T.
Lina is such a great dermatologist! She is very skilled, calm, and cordial and does a really good job at explaining treatment options and setting expectations
Kathy T.
Great experience with all the staff. Dr. Dawn took the time to answer all my many questions. Her assistant was also very helpful. Will definitely recommend this practice and return.
Kathy T.
The entire staff of secretaries, doctors, and assistants are all very friendly, helpful, and caring.
Kathy T.
Very nice and friendly staff.
Kathy T.
Totally professional from appointment making to visit with the doctor highly recommend
Kathy T.
The front office people are wonderful. The doctor is extremely knowledgeable and very pleasant to deal with. His assistants are very good as well. This is an excellent practice and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a good dermatologist.
Kathy T.
Very positive experience. Walked into a crowded reception room and expected a long wait, but it only took a few minutes for me to see the doctor. Very efficiently run practice and I was treated with great care.
Kathy T.
I strongly recommend this Doctor and her staff! They have taken such good care for many issues, that I’m going to start going for myself. They are good and they truly care about us. And take their time too!
Kathy T.
Absolutely very great practice, very clear and understanding in teaching you about how to treat and maintain your skin!
Kathy T.
They are amazing, all the staff. Thank you so much for everything.
Kathy T.
Heather is so incredibly sweet and helpful!!! I always have the best experience here.
Kathy T.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Easy to find, plenty of parking.
Kathy T.
Dr Germanas is very compassionate as well as being an excellent doctor. I highly recommend him! I want to thank the caring staff at the Mt Airy location. From entering until leaving, it is a very comfortable & pleasant experience. You are the BEST! Thank You!
Kathy T.
EXCELLENT
Kathy T.
Good people! My concerns were taken care of. I can tell them anything about skin disorders without being judged.
Kathy T.
You did great!
Kathy T.
I had an excellent experience with Dr. Chauncey Barbulescu. From my very first appointment, she demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my concerns. She patiently listened to my questions, thoroughly explained the diagnosis, and personalized a treatment plan that fit my needs. The office was welcoming, the staff efficient and friendly, and I never had to wait long to be seen. Over the course of several visits, I noticed significant improvements in my skin, thanks to her attentive follow-up and adjustments to treatment. Dr. Barbulescu’s professionalism, knowledge, and compassion truly set her apart. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking top-quality
Kathy T.
Staff and Dr.were friendly and efficient. Dr Johnson was exceptional, took his time asking questions and answering all of my questions , looking forward to my next appointment. Many thanks to all.
Kathy T.
All staff was excellent!!!
Kathy T.
I recently moved to Leland and left a wonderful dermatologist in my hometown. I needed to find a dermatologist in my new hometown and was so afraid I could find nothing to compare. I was definitely wrong. Dr. Bermudez and his staff are amazing! I was professionally and respectfully guided thru three Mohs surgeries with compassion and genuine concern for my well being. I received phone calls after each surgery from Dr. Bermudez. The first phone call concerned me, thinking they had found an issue. After listening to the voice mail, he was just calling to see how I was. Who does that anymore!!!!????? I highly recommend this practice!!!
Kathy T.
Henry , PA-C is exceptionally. He is professional, knowledgeable, and attentive. I highly recommend.
Kathy T.
Best dermatology group in our area. Have been going here for years and recommend them to all my friends!
Kathy T.
Very nice staff, clean facility, easy to schedule appointments, and if I have to reschedule they do it without problem.
Kathy T.
Dr. Katz is very professional and explains the information that you need to know very clearly. The assistants and staff are very helpful. All and all the best dermatologist I’ve seen.
Kathy T.
Everyone was professional & I really felt comfortable with doctor & assistant was very relieved to have such a good experience
Kathy T.
From scheduling an appt., to friendly front desk check in gals, to doctor’s assistance, Shay…Anne Arundel Dermatology was just what I was looking for. Dr. James Joseph Jones Jr.’s health care knowledge and expertise was the best!
Kathy T.
I went here and the atmosphere is AMAZING. Plenty of chairs, and not a ton of people waiting. My appointment was fast. The front desk lady was nice. The assistant with the broken arm was professional, and Dr. Alyssa was very professional. She even explained things as she went along. My only issue is how bright the room is. I had to look down a bit just to avoid the light, but that's fine. They need the light to look at your skin. Overall, they get an A+
Kathy T.
Great place to go. Treatment started right there on my first visit. Sorry I waited so long to go. I highly recomend the PA I saw Casandra Cohen. I have seen a few medical doctors over the years for dermatological issues. It was a great experience. Highly competent, easy go and professional.
Kathy T.
Very friendly and efficient.
Kathy T.
I had an amazing experience going here! My family recommended it and Dr. Lina and her team was amazing. Everyone was super friendly and kind. I was walked through every step of the process and what I would need to do to get on track! I was in and out within 20 minutes!
Kathy T.
Dr. Beasley is great!
Kathy T.
Professional and competent care was shown by all staff members. Doctor was thorough and extremely competent. Nurse was outstanding. I know that my health is in good hands with this practice. Bravo!!!
Kathy T.
great experience, staff and doctors were great. A little wait but nothing major, all good
Kathy T.
I had my first appointment yesterday with dermatologist Sonja Baer and her wonderful staff. I was pleasantly surprised by the care they provided. I highly recommend this team to anyone looking for a provider who not only takes the time to listen but also helps alleviate the stress associated with dermatological medical care. One of my new favorite providers from reception Management to assistants. A+++++ JL Port Charlotte
Kathy T.
Everyone from the front desk to the dermatologist were very friendly and listened to my concerns. They put me at ease and I would highly recommend them.
Kathy T.
I’m so glad that they opened the Meridiem DermSpa here at this convenient location! I saw Brittany and she was really informative about my first chemical peel I had. She explained everything clearly. She is a great esthetician. Very pleased with the results so far! The office staff was also very friendly when I checked in and out.
Kathy T.
From checking in with S. @ the front desk- professional, friendly, caring and composed to Minon taking care to settle me in making me feel safe, protected and cared for… Minon a kind soul who made me feel as if she saw me as unique individual and that she cared. Then Gloria comes in to finish up with all the confidence and competence so I leave feeling accomplished and proactively healthy. Thank you ladies
Kathy T.
Dr. Ansari was exceptional regarding patient care. Any question or concern we had, he addressed with understanding and compassion. Thank you Dr. Ansari!
Kathy T.
Very professional, friendly clean office.
Kathy T.
Fantastic care and thorough! I've been going here for 3 years and I appreciate them! Highly recommend!
Kathy T.
Visited Academic Alliance Tarpon Springs and had my body checked . A good visit and thanks for having no issues. Had a thorough exam and I was in good shape.
Kathy T.
Dr Dhar is very attentive and knowledgeable!
Kathy T.
Stellar office visit, they were all completely professional and caring. Front office staff, Dr. Brian Johnson and his assistant were all friendly professionals and genuinely interested in providing great service to my needs. The office is super clean and a pleasure to visit.
Kathy T.
Very friendly staff, doctor Alonna Harris was very very friendly, sweet, quick, knowledgeable and addressed all my concerns. I am very satisfied and will definitely recommend her. The staff here is also great, friendly and caring!
Kathy T.
Outstand office and medical staff. I have been using their services for years, including several surgeries, and I am extremely satisfied with the professionalism of staff and, more importantly, results of their care. Thank you.
Kathy T.
The staff is consistently cheerful and helpful. Dr Prussick is a very bright, knowledgeable and empathic physician. Mary C
Kathy T.
Anne Arundel Dermatology in Prince Frederick is the only place I go to be treated and get skin exams. They are prompt, courteous, professional and thorough. I have had two precancerous moles removed over the years. No scarring and no problems. They were especially aggressive with the last one, as we knew it could have gone to carcenoma any time. The treating physician took what to me was a large portion of tissue out, and sutured it aggressively. It healed so well that today no one can tell I ever had it done. The PA there is so good that he identified what I had my whole life thought was a mole as a Seborreic keratosis. Unconvinced I had him remove it. I was wrong, he was right. The thing has stayed gone ever since, and I will always be grateful for it. No one could ever tell it had been on my arm for 50 years, because it is gone 10,000%.
Kathy T.
Have seen two different Dr’s there and they were both great!!!!
Kathy T.
Exceptional service, friendly staff , I would recommend this office to anyone looking for a great Dermatologist.
Kathy T.
Top notch dermatology practice! I have been a patient of Dr. Neibyl’s for almost 25 years and have sent many of my friends to him! All if the office staff are terrific!!! Lori snd Michelle are top notch!! Today I met the new NP!
Kathy T.
Very pleased with my experience. Ask for Brittany.
Kathy T.
Dr. Liu was very caring and excellent in his procedure. Everyone I dealt with was fantastic, and the nurse Janet was amazing. Highly recommend!
Kathy T.
Going to a Doctor that’s going to tell you if you have or don’t have skin cancer is very stressful. Atlantic Dermatology was absolutely amazing. I felt very comfortable and treated with the care I was looking for.
Kathy T.
I was in and out very quickly. Dr. Conley was very pleasant and helpful!
Kathy T.
Every body in that center are professional. I feel so comfortable whenever I go there. Doctor Smith is my doctor and he is the best 👌.
Kathy T.
Awesome doctor and staff! I wouldn't go anywhere else... thank you!
Kathy T.
Quick appointment availability. Great team of professionals throughout the process. Truly appreciate their compassion and attentiveness.
Kathy T.
Good place to have your whole hide looked at. Fast & efficient!
Kathy T.
Very professional was in an out in no time.
Kathy T.
Dr. Kushner was great and pleasant.
Kathy T.
Hello, I used this facility while I was visiting from Puerto Rico. It is very clean when you walk in and also throughout the building. The receptionist was beautiful, kind, very fun to talk to, and very helpful. Dan is the one who performed my injections, and he did a fabulous job. Very much took the time to make sure that it was the proper amount, angled, right, put dots and lines all over my face, let me look in the mirror, explained everything to me, also gave us honest opinion if I needed more or less of anything. I highly recommend anyone living in Sevierville or visiting to use the clinic. You will not be disappointed.
Kathy T.
Excellent care. Kerri Mcdonald in Bel Air is the best! Staff is just as wonderful.
Kathy T.
Great staff, professional, friendly, and helpful
Kathy T.
Excellent service. I loved Amy. She put me completely at ease
Kathy T.
From the time you step through their doors you’re treated with special care.
Kathy T.
I have been going to this practice for at least 10 years. I always feel like I have a personal connection with the provider when I have a concern and it is always addressed satisfactorily.
Kathy T.
Dr Sukri was amazing. Kind thorough explained everything perfectly. A A++++ experience - thank you for caring. !!
Kathy T.
Great office, staff and doctors! So glad I found this place.
Kathy T.
Good service. Great treatment.
Kathy T.
My experience at this surgery center could not have been better. Friendly and professional staff, excellent facilities, and Dr Welch was the best! Hopefully I won’t need MOHS surgery, but if I do, I will be back to this center.
Kathy T.
Great Doctors and staff! After weeks of not knowing what is wrong with me I got answers thanks to Atlantic Dermatologist I am so glad I found you guys and made the trip
Kathy T.
Today was my first appointment with this team after nearly two decades since I last saw a dermatologist. From the online booking to the in-office check-in and consultation, my entire experience was great and efficient. Within five minutes of checking in, I was back being seen by a doctor and assistant, who listened closely to my concerns, provided a detail explanation of my care plan, and had me out within 10 minutes.
Kathy T.
Excellent service and didn’t have to wait long. Very friendly staff great location. I highly recommend this practice.
Kathy T.
The staff is very friendly and helpful considerate. They show that they care about you I recommend them to everyone.
Kathy T.
After years of mediocre dermatological care, I found Azalea Skin Treatment Center in Garner, NC. In just months, my skin has improved after years of minimal improvements. Instead of saying, "Yeah, you're fine, come back in 2 years," when I have continuing skin issues, Azalea has provided needed and continued care specifically for my needs with fast improvements. Instead of being hurried through my appointment, Megan Kain takes the time to actively listen and interact with me while providing valuable insight and information.My aging skin needs quality care, and Azalea/Megan Kain are providing it. I am very thankful.
Kathy T.
Tiffany and the staff at Alliance Dermatology showed great patience and excellent customer service. She truly listened to my concerns and explained my condition in a way I could easily understand. I felt heard, respected, and well cared for. Thank you for such a positive experience! Tosha B
Kathy T.
My providers (Ashley and Sarah) explained every step of the treatment and made sure I understood how it would benefit my skin. The results have been incredible — my skin feels refreshed, smooth, and glowing! I also appreciated the personalized skincare recommendations for maintaining long-term results.
Kathy T.
i visited dr.boswell a few years ago to get some assistance on adult acne and they really took their time to listen while i explained the history of my skin. my skincare routine is now much more simple and is the clearest it has ever been. i recently visited (with dr.johanna young) due to a persistent, painful contact dermatitis rash which no one was able to clear. they (again) took their time listening to me and truly made me feel cared for and it was 90% cleared within two days. i am a forever patient 😭 great doctors and great staff. thank you so much!!
Kathy T.
Excellent service and care
Kathy T.
Me and my son have a great experience with the dermatologist my son learned a lot on how to put cream on his face and how to clean.
Kathy T.
Great experience! Great staff! Thorough treatment & explanation! Definitely recommend!
Kathy T.
Knowledge service professionalism are all top-notch
Kathy T.
Will always choose Atlantic Dermatology whiteville. The staff friendly and professional. The clinic is clean nice and cool .my PA always listens and works with me on my skin to figure things out.
Kathy T.
Very positive experience! I had a cyst removed on my back and they made me feel comfortable and relaxed and felt no pain at all! Highly recommended!
Kathy T.
Dr K. and his team provide excellent care. They truly value patients and work hard to deliver exceptional service. I am very appreciative of this practice and the results of their work.
Kathy T.
Very pleased with every aspect of my visit !
Kathy T.
Really liked the Doctor!
Kathy T.
Caring and efficient staff the doctor was great
Kathy T.
Poseen un servicio de excelencia en todas las actividades que deben desarrollar
Kathy T.
Fantastic facility, everyone we interacted with was excellent. They were caring, compassionate, took time to discuss everything and answer any questions. I would highly recommend.
Kathy T.
Great doctor, very nice to my son who is 9 years old , she is so perfectional
Kathy T.
Steve Watson is an excellent provider. I always appreciate his friendly and professional approach. Great healthcare team and facility.
Kathy T.
Dr Woo. Excellent and thorough.
Kathy T.
This office has been amazing for all of my visits so far. Check-in is easy, waiting times are reasonable, and the providers are friendly, informative, and respectful. Derek is exceptional as the front desk rep. Lina Weber and Gloria Gooray were my providers and they were great!
Kathy T.
Had a skin removed, first one ever. Took a while, but they stayed with it, & with me. I hope I won't need them again, but if I do I won't hesitate.
Kathy T.
The admin staff and doctor were very polite and informative during me recent visit. I couldn’t have been more satisfied with this office.
Kathy T.
I had my first visit with Dr. Katz today, and I find him to be a good listener. He explained the information he gave me in great detail very well. I highly recommend him. In regards to his staff, they are all very pleasant. I am very pleased with my visit.
Kathy T.
Good experience. Professional staff.
Kathy T.
Thank God I found them. I take my teen son there. Dr. Valentin and everyone,staff, nurses are awesome. And they care about all your concerns and questions. Overall happy and grateful that with their help my son's eczema can be controlled
Kathy T.
Our family has always had a great experience with Dr.Frank Navarro and his team. The front staff ladies are always welcoming and friendly❤️ I highly recommend to anyone looking for a Dermatologist in the area. I rate beyond 5 stars🌟
Kathy T.
All staff and Dr Prussick are exceptional and would highly recommend them to anyone. Very pleasant and doctor takes time to address my concerns.
Kathy T.
All the staff are great 👍🏻..
Kathy T.
Laren and her staff are wonderful—warm, welcoming, and very laid back, which immediately puts you at ease. I came in for a three-month follow-up and also brought up a new concern. They didn’t hesitate for a moment to address it and made sure all my needs were taken care of. Laren is both professional and down-to-earth. Her relaxed approach makes the visit feel more like catching up with someone who truly cares rather than a typical doctor’s appointment—which I really appreciate. Highly recommend!
Kathy T.
Excellent doctor! Also it was so helpful Janeth speak Spanish.
Kathy T.
Very friendly comforting staff. Very knowledgeable. 10/10 would recommend!!
Kathy T.
I had an amazing experience with Tiffany at Academic Alliance in Dermatology! She is truly a master when it comes to cosmetic treatments. Her skill with Botox and a variety of fillers is incredible, she has an artistic eye for facial contours and balance, and the results look natural and beautiful. Tiffany takes her time, explains everything clearly, and makes sure you are comfortable throughout the process. I could not be happier with my results! The entire office is professional, welcoming, and a pleasure to visit. Highly recommend Tiffany for anyone looking for expert, natural looking results!
Kathy T.
Staff is very professional, courteous and friendly. Doctor/PA V was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions. Awesome visit and have no problem telling all my friends that this is the place to have their dermatological needs addressed.
Kathy T.
This was my first experience with Dr. Clarke. I couldn’t be happier. She was very personable and professional. She addressed all of my concerns. I’ve been to a half a dozen different dermatologists over the past 5 years and she’s the first I would truly recommend!
Kathy T.
I really like the staff. Knowledgeable and kind
Kathy T.
Dr Curtin was very polite, friendly, attentive and addressed every issue I brought to his attention. He gave me information needed to care for my skin’s health and relieved stress associated with health concerns. When you find a doctor that is friendly, well educated and experienced, you should keep their schedule light enough to fit you in when needed by not spreading great ratings. It would be hard to not suggest Dr Curtin to good people, especially since good people recommended him to me.
Kathy T.
I recommend
Kathy T.
Always an awesome visit!
Kathy T.
Been going for years excellent practice
Kathy T.
Dr. Smith and Ollie gave me easily one of the best medical experiences I’ve ever had. Both very kind, attentive, thorough, and caring. They were very busy that day and still made me feel like their only patient of the day. I will never forget my experience here, and I mean that in the best way possible. 10/10 recommend.
Kathy T.
Welcoming Front Desk Staff.
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Your Photodynamic Therapy Questions, Answered
PDT is most commonly used to treat actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions caused by sun damage), superficial basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma in situ, and chronic inflammatory acne. In some cases, it can also improve skin texture and tone as a secondary benefit.
Your provider applies a light-sensitizing solution, typically aminolevulinic acid (ALA), to the treatment area. The solution is absorbed by abnormal cells over a set incubation period. A specific wavelength of light then activates the solution, which destroys those cells while leaving healthy surrounding tissue largely unaffected.
Most patients feel a tingling, stinging, or warming sensation during the light activation phase. Discomfort is typically mild to moderate and resolves shortly after the light source is removed. Your provider will discuss what to expect based on your individual treatment area.
This depends on the condition being treated and the extent of the area involved. Actinic keratoses and acne may respond well to a single session, whereas other conditions may require 2 to 3 treatments spaced several weeks apart. Your provider will outline a personalized plan at your consultation.
Redness, swelling, peeling, and sensitivity in the treated area are normal in the days following treatment. These symptoms indicate the PDT is working as intended. Strict sun avoidance for at least 48 hours post-treatment is essential, as the skin remains highly light-sensitive during this window.
The in-office visit typically lasts two to three hours from start to finish. The incubation period, when the solution absorbs into the skin, takes up most of that time. Light activation itself is generally 15 to 20 minutes.
PDT does not require traditional downtime, as you can return to normal indoor activities the same day. However, you will need to avoid sun exposure, bright indoor lighting, and any light-stimulating activity for 48 hours following treatment. Plan accordingly.
Yes. PDT pairs well with several other treatments depending on your skin goals. Chemical peels can improve surface texture, and BBL or laser therapy can be sequenced to address tone and pigmentation. Your provider will recommend the right combination based on your clinical needs.
When PDT is performed for a medical indication, such as actinic keratoses or early-stage skin cancer, it is typically covered by insurance, subject to your plan's terms. Coverage for cosmetic applications may differ. Our team can help clarify what's covered at your consultation.
PDT is generally well-tolerated across most skin types. However, patients with certain photosensitivities, those taking photosensitizing medications, or patients who are pregnant may not be candidates. Your provider will review your full medical history to determine whether PDT is appropriate for you.
Is Photodynamic Therapy Right for You?
This noninvasive treatment targets precancerous spots and some early skin cancers. Our board-certified dermatologists can help you decide.
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Talk to a Dermatologist About Photodynamic Therapy
Whether you're treating precancerous lesions, early-stage skin cancer, or chronic acne that hasn't responded to other options, our team is here to help you take the next step with confidence.
