Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) at Waterfront Laser & Cosmetic Dermatology is a targeted treatment designed to improve acne, sun damaged skin, uneven tone, redness, and visible precancerous changes. This advanced option is offered in Vancouver for patients seeking meaningful skin improvements and especially to eliminate acne without the use of oral medication.
Photodynamic Therapy at a Glance
- Uses light activated medication to selectively treat damaged skin cells
- Shrinks oil glands and kills the bacteria that causes acne to clear up your skin
- Improves skin brightness, texture, and overall clarity
- Reduces visible sunspots, redness, and actinic damage (even treats pre-cancerous lesions that are not yet visible!)
- Supports skin cancer prevention while enhancing appearance
Understanding Photodynamic Therapy in vancouver
Photodynamic therapy is a medical and cosmetic treatment that combines a photosensitizing agent with a controlled light source. The medication is absorbed by damaged, fast frowning, and/ or abnormal skin cells and then activated with light to target those cells precisely. This process allows healthy surrounding skin to remain intact while improving tone, texture, and clarity. Many patients choose photodynamic therapy for the face or body to address visible sun damage and early precancerous changes with minimal downtime.
Photodynamic Therapy Technology and Approach
At Waterfront Laser & Cosmetic Dermatology, Photodynamic Therapy uses ALA as the photosensitizing medication, with additional options including the brand names Metvixia and Levulan. These medications are carefully applied to target sun damaged and abnormal skin cells before light activation. Activation may be performed using IPL, targeted PDL spot treatment, or a number of other lasers and specialized light sources selected based on the treatment area and skin condition.
As a very unique and innovative add-on, for select cases, a fractional laser is used before applying ALA to help increase medication penetration and enhance overall treatment effectiveness. This advanced step allows the photosensitizing agent to reach deeper areas of damage while maintaining precision and safety. Daylight activation may also be incorporated to help reduce treatment discomfort while supporting strong clinical outcomes.
Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
Acne
- destroys the bacteria that causes acne
- Shrinks oil glands to reduce production
- Clears up stubborn, hormonal, cystic, and all types of acne
Skin Clarity and Brightening
- Reduces brown spots caused by sun exposure
- Improves uneven pigmentation and dull tone
- Enhances overall skin brightness
Redness and Texture Improvement
- Help reduce chronic facial redness
- Smooths rough texture from sun damage
- Refines skin surface for a healthier appearance
Preventive Skin Health
- Treats actinic keratosis before progression
- Addresses early skin cancer related changes
- Supports long-term skin protection
Targeted and Controlled Care
- Focuses only on damaged cells
- Preserves surrounding healthy skin
- Customizable treatment approach
Before and After Photodynamic Therapy in vancouver
Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic Therapy
Multimodal combination treatment Pico, VBeam, IPL, CO2, Thermi, BTX filler
Conditions Photodynamic Therapy Can Treat
Acne
Acne vulgaris, nodules, pustules, and cystic acne can all be treated with photodynamic therapy!
Actinic Keratosis
Precancerous sun damaged lesions that appear as rough or scaly patches
Sunspots and Brown Spot Buildup
Pigmented areas caused by long term UV exposure
Redness and Uneven Tone
Persistent facial redness and blotchiness
Early Skin Cancer Changes
Used as part of photodynamic therapy for cancer management under physician guidance
Overall Skin Texture Concerns
Roughness and loss of smoothness from environmental damage
Meet the Doctor
About Dr. Wu
Douglas Wu, MD, has extensive experience using vascular laser technology to treat redness and blood vessel-related skin concerns across a wide range of skin tones. His clinical approach is centered on careful evaluation, precise laser selection, and realistic outcomes, ensuring results that improve visible concerns while preserving natural skin appearance.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Wu is recognized internationally for his expertise in vascular laser treatments. He served as an Invited Lecturer and Clinical Trainer at KoreaDerma in 2024 and 2025 in Seoul, Korea, where he educated physicians on advanced laser techniques for the treatment of redness and vascular conditions. He was also an Invited Lecturer and Clinical Trainer for the Scientific Academy of Aesthetic Medicine in 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, sharing specialized insight on the safe and effective use of this laser technology.
This global teaching experience reflects Dr. Wu’s deep understanding of laser science, skin diversity, and precision-based treatment planning.
Advanced Training and Expertise
Dr. Wu studied and trained under Mitchel Goldman, widely recognized as one of the pioneers and leading authorities in Photodynamic Therapy. This foundation shapes the clinical approach used at Waterfront, combining medical expertise with a focus on visible skin improvement. Each Photodynamic Therapy treatment is guided by both scientific understanding and real world clinical experience to support skin clarity, brightness, and long term health.
Real Patients. Real Trust.
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Why Choose Waterfront for PDT in vancouver
- Expertise in medically guided photodynamic therapy services
- Advanced technology including Metvix photodynamic therapy
- Emphasis on visible concerns like sunspot reduction and skin brightening
- Individualized care guided by dermatologist evaluation
- Trusted Vancouver destination for skin cancer prevention and cosmetic improvement
Your Photodynamic Therapy Experience in Vancouver
Consultation
A detailed skin evaluation to determine candidacy and treatment goals.
Scheduling
Treatment timing is carefully planned based on skin condition and lifestyle needs.
Treatment Day
The photosensitizing agent is applied and later activated with light in a controlled clinical setting.
Follow Up Care
Post treatment guidance supports healing, comfort, and optimal results.
Photodynamic Therapy FAQ
What is photodynamic therapy?
Photodynamic Therapy is a medically guided treatment that uses a light activated solution to target damaged or abnormal skin cells. The medication is selectively absorbed by affected areas, allowing treatment to focus on visible concerns while protecting surrounding healthy skin. This approach makes Photodynamic Therapy especially effective for improving sun damage, skin tone irregularities, and overall skin clarity.
How does photodynamic therapy work?
During Photodynamic Therapy, a photosensitizing agent is applied to the skin and given time to absorb into targeted cells. A controlled light source is then used to activate the medication, triggering a reaction that breaks down damaged cells. Over time, the skin naturally renews itself, resulting in improved texture, brightness, and a healthier appearance.
What to expect after photodynamic therapy?
After Photodynamic Therapy, it is common to experience redness, warmth, sensitivity, and visible peeling as the skin heals. These effects indicate that damaged cells are being shed and replaced with healthier skin. Recovery timelines vary, but many patients notice clearer, brighter skin as healing progresses.
Is PDT a good alternative to Accutane?
Yes, for many patients photodynamic therapy can be an incredible alternative Accutane. Often used when Accutane stops working or if a patient doesn’t want to risk the side effects of taking Accutane and is looking for a most holistic approach.
What photodynamic therapy is used to treat?
Photodynamic Therapy is commonly used to treat acne, actinic keratosis, sun spots, uneven pigmentation, and persistent redness. It is also utilized in dermatology for managing early skin cancer related changes under physician supervision. In addition, many patients choose Photodynamic Therapy to support skin brightening and texture improvement while promoting long term skin health.
How many Photodynamic Therapy treatments are typically needed for optimal results?
The number of Photodynamic Therapy treatments depends on the condition being addressed and the severity of sun damage or actinic keratosis. Some patients see noticeable improvement after a single session, while others benefit from a series of treatments spaced over time. During your consultation, the treatment plan is determined based on skin health goals, response to therapy, and long term skin protection needs.
How long does recovery take after Photodynamic Therapy?
Recovery after Photodynamic Therapy varies, but most patients experience redness, sensitivity, and peeling for several days as the skin heals. These changes are part of the natural renewal process as damaged cells are replaced with healthier skin. Improvements in tone, brightness, and texture continue to develop over the following weeks.
Is Photodynamic Therapy safe for sensitive or sun damaged skin?
Photodynamic Therapy is considered safe for sensitive and sun damaged skin when performed under medical supervision. The treatment selectively targets abnormal cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, making it well suited for chronically sun exposed areas. A thorough consultation ensures the treatment approach aligns with individual skin needs and comfort levels.
Who is a good candidate for Sculptra?
Sculptra is ideal for patients experiencing collagen loss, facial thinning, or skin laxity who want gradual, long-lasting improvement. A consultation for Sculptra in Vancouver is required to determine candidacy and ensure optimal results.