Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of Dr. Zain Husain’s favorite tools at Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics. Why? Because it treats precancerous spots (actinic keratoses) and sun damage without surgery, without cutting, and with very little downtime.

If you have spent years in the sun and your skin is showing it, with rough red patches, scaly spots, or just that “weathered” look, PDT might be exactly what you need. People come from Apex, Morrisville, and Chapel Hill to see Dr. Husain for PDT because they couldn’t find it offered with this level of care closer to home.

A Word from Dr. Husain

“I recommend PDT often for patients who have multiple rough spots but don’t want surgery. It treats a whole area at once, not just one spot. And the cosmetic improvement is a nice bonus. Patients leave looking younger and healthier, not just cancer-free.”

Dr. Zain Husain, MD
Board-Certified Dermatologist, Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics

What Is Photodynamic Therapy?

Think of PDT as a light-activated treatment for damaged skin.

Here is how it works in plain English.

First, Dr. Husain or his team applies a special photosensitizing solution to the area we are treating, usually your face, scalp, chest, or hands. You will wait anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours while that solution absorbs into the abnormal cells (the ones that look rough or precancerous).

Then, we turn on a special blue or red light. That light activates the solution, which destroys the damaged cells while leaving healthy skin alone.

The whole appointment, from application to light activation, typically takes one to three hours.

What Does PDT Treat?

PDT is best known for treating actinic keratoses (AKs), those rough, scaly patches that form from years of sun exposure. AKs themselves aren’t cancer, but if you leave them alone, some can turn into squamous cell carcinoma.

PDT also:

• Reduces sun damage and uneven pigmentation

• Improves skin texture and tone

• Can help with moderate to severe acne (yes, really, and we carry acne products to support your results)

What Are the Benefits of PDT Over Surgery?

For patients with multiple precancerous spots or widespread sun damage, Dr. Husain often recommends PDT as the better choice. He has treated people from Raleigh, Durham, and all over the Triangle who were tired of repeated freezing or spot treatments.

What Are the Side Effects?

The most common side effect is redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation in the treated area. That usually peaks within 24 hours and fades over a few days.

Some patients experience mild crusting, peeling, or blistering, but that is actually a sign the treatment is working. Dr. Husain will give you clear aftercare instructions and a gentle skincare routine to follow.

Serious side effects are very rare.

Am I a Good Candidate for PDT?

You might be a good fit if:

• You have multiple rough, scaly patches (AKs) on your face, scalp, or chest

• You want to treat sun damage and improve skin appearance at the same time

• You prefer a non-surgical option

• You are willing to avoid direct sunlight for 48 hours after treatment (the solution makes your skin extra sensitive to light)

Not sure? Come see Dr. Husain. He will examine your skin and tell you honestly whether PDT is right for you.

Ready to Clear Precancerous Spots Without Surgery?

PDT is one of those treatments that patients are often nervous about, until they try it. Then they wonder why they waited so long.

Schedule a consultation at our Cary office. Dr. Husain will answer your questions, show you before and after photos, and help you decide if PDT is your next step.

 Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics – Cary, NC