Conclusions: PDT for Acne

Topical ALA PDT with short incubation and activation by various light sources includ­ing blue and red wavelengths, LP PDL, and IPL is emerging as a safe and effective treat­ment option for acne patients. In Table 21.1, several published treatment methodologies are presented using topical ALA, and the most effective and commonly used light sources. Although ALA followed by red wavelengths has been reported to be very effective, side effects were an early consideration. Topical ALA combined with blue light has been vari­ably effective in treating acne, and awaits further study. Short incubation topical ALA with activation by LP PDL appears to be both safe and highly effective in treating acne of all types and levels of severity with minimal side effects, and may provide an alternative to isotretinoin in the treatment of recalcitrant acne. Topical ALA and IPL may be an attractive

treatment option for adult acne patients, combining photorejuvenation with acne therapy. Topical PDT for the treatment of acne provides a highly needed treatment alternative for recalcitrant acne patients, many of whom are resistant or have acne that recurs following conventional treatments including isotretinoin, and deserves further research to optimize treatment protocols and level of efficacy.