Levulan (Aminolevulinic acid 20%) is a naturally photosensitizing compound approved by the FDA and Health and Welfare Canada to treat pre-cancerous skin lesions (actinic keratosis). It is applied to the skin in our clinic then activated by a specific wavelength of light. This process is known as Photodynamic Therapy.

Levulan can also be used to treat a variety of skin conditions such as:  acne rosacea, acne vulgaris, sebaceous hyperplasia, oily skin, enlarged pores, and it improves the overall texture and smoothness of the skin. Any pre-cancerous lesions (actinic keratosis) are also simultaneously treated.
 
Levulan is applied 30-90 minutes before activation with either IPL (Intense Pulse Light) or Blu-U Light depending on treatment goals. The actual procedure takes only 8-10 minutes under the appropriate light.
 
There is little down time, but clients must stay out of the sun completely for 2 days, even using a SPF sunblock indoors on the second day. There will be redness and peeling from day 3 or 4 for several days, and skin needs to be hydrated extensively during this time. Generally, by the end of the week, the skin has returned to normal colour, but drastically improved, even after only one treatment.
 
Although the number of treatments needed vary depending on what skin condition is being considered, improvement is substantial from the first application. Treatments are often done 2-4 weeks apart. An initial complimentary consultation at glow Medi Spa allows us to work together to see if Levulan is appropriate for your skin.  All questions and contraindications are addressed, as well as information on the procedure and its pre-and post care.
 
For more information, please call us at 416-920-9998 for your complimentary consultation to see if this is the right treatment for you.  You can also read more information on our website under “Photodynamic Therapy”.