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PDT with Levulan

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PDT with Levulan

In The San Francisco Bay Area

PDT with Levulan Specialist in the San Francisco Bay Area

At PotozkinMD Skin Care and Laser Center, we offer PDT with Levulan to improve and treat moderate-to-severe skin conditions.

What is PDT with Levulan?

Photodynamic therapy is the use of light or laser technology to treat more severe skin conditions and disease. The most common skin conditions that this treatment approach can effectively improve are:

  • Sun damage
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hyperpigmentation and large pores
  • Actinic keratosis (precancerous cells)
  • Acne

The targeted area of your skin must first be coated with Levulan, which is a prescription solution that causes the targeted cells or glands to become more sensitive to light. The combination of Levulan and light treats the diseased skin cells and glands. It can also make your skin appear smoother and more even. In some cases, this treatment can prevent skin cancer.

Are PDT with Levulan treatments painful?

PDT is not a painful treatment, but you may experience some discomfort. Most patients describe the feeling as tiny rubber bands snapping against their skin.

On treatment day, you can expect the following:

  • Patients are usually advised to arrive 1-2 hours early as your skin will need to be cleansed and coated with Levulan
  • After the designated waiting period, the Levulan is washed off
  • We then will treat you with either a laser or a light, depending on your unique skin condition and what was discussed during your consultation with our team

Who should avoid these treatments?

PDT is not the right treatment for everyone. You will not be able to undergo this treatment if you:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have taken Accutane in the last six months
  • Have a sunburn or infection on the treatment area

What should you expect with during your consultation and PDT with Levulan treatments?

During your consultation, our team will assess your unique skin condition thoroughly and discuss all patient history, goals, and questions you may have in full detail. All risks, side effects, and treatment options will be presented to you. 

In many cases, we may recommend PDT be combined with another skin treatment such as a chemical peel or a photo-rejuvenation treatment. 

While there are other treatments that may be able to give similar results aesthetically, PDT is able to destroy tiny precancerous cells not visible to the naked eye. No other skin treatments are known to do this besides topical creams, surgery, or liquid nitrogen, which all have their own side effects.

After the treatment, you can expect to be red and scaly for around 3-7 days depending on your skin condition. PDT has never been known to scar, so if you are experiencing some unsightly areas on your face, there’s no need to worry. Once the side effects fade away, healthy and smoother skin will appear. 

PDT with Levulan treatments are very effective, but for many, there will need to be more than one treatment. People who have actinic Keratoses (precancerous lesions) will likely need to come in for maintenance treatments and more frequent follow-up appointments.

Dr. Potozkin and Dr. Ellis are both sought-after board-certified dermatologists that strive to give you an excellent patient experience. During your consultation, our team will discuss your unique skin condition and history to determine the right personalized treatment plan for you.

Our Philosophy

“Our practice philosophy is simple — to deliver the very best care we can in the very best way we can. To us, that means we make each and every patient feel welcomed from the moment that they walk in the door until they leave the office. It means that we listen to what the patient has to say and address those concerns. It means we give advice and recommend treatments based on our extensive training with leaders in the field, our wealth of personal experience, and our commitment to excellence. For our cosmetic patients, it means working with the patient to achieve results that look natural, not overdone or exaggerated. It means that we always strive to do the right thing for the patient, as we value very highly ethics, honesty, and integrity. It means we stand behind what we do and will do everything in our power to get the best results we can for the patient. It means we carefully select the highest quality staff to represent us and help us carry out these goals. Lastly and most importantly, it means that we treat the patient the way we would want ourselves to be treated, with respect and kindness. Because at the end of the day, without all of our loyal patients, we wouldn’t have a practice.”

Extremely caring

"He saved my life! Literally! I've been seeing Dr. Potozkin for over 20 years and I wouldn't trust anyone else with my skin. I had melanoma 20 years ago and he took care of me and just recently I had it again. And might have more, but I'm waiting on the results. But if I do, I am confident that Dr Potozkin and his highly trained staff will take care of me. He is the best in his field. Everyone on his staff is so caring and helpful. I feel so comfortable when I'm there. So please, if you have any skin concerns, make an appointment, don't delay, your life may depend on it."

Diane D.
Google Reviews

Friendly & ThoughtFul

"Dr. Potozkin is an amiable, thoughtful provider.  His expertise is evidenced by his ability to diagnose and determine the appropriate treatment or options to address the issue at hand.  His staff is always welcoming, friendly and helpful which makes for an overall great experience at each visit.  I highly recommend POTOZKIN MD Skincare Center if you are seeking an outstanding specialist and staff."

Marian O.
Google Reviews

Efficient & Professional

"Dr. Potozkin and his team are the best! My skin issues/problems have drastically improved since I have been coming to this Doctor-over 5, maybe even 10 years. His staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The office is a flagship store that sells my favorite skin repair and healing products- by SkinCeuticals. I don’t live near this office, but I would never go anywhere else even if it’s closer. Absolutely worth the trip. The results are real!"

Gretchen Z.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a SkinCeuticals Flagship location?
As a Flagship center, we carry the complete range of SkinCeuticals products and treatments. When you visit our practice, you gain access to proven skincare solutions and personalized guidance from our expert skin care specialists, ensuring that you receive the most effective and suitable treatments based on your unique needs.

What sets SkinCeuticals apart from other skincare brands?SkinCeuticals stands apart through its scientific approach, integrating research from product inception to formulation packaging. Each product undergoes rigorous medical-grade clinical testing, a testament that distinctly differentiates SkinCeuticals from other cosmeceutical brands.How do I determine which SkinCeuticals products are best for my skin type?Leverage the expertise of our skilled skincare specialists at PotozkinMD to assess your unique skin and requirements. They'll seamlessly recommend the ideal SkinCeuticals products tailored specifically for you.Are SkinCeuticals products suitable for sensitive skin?
SkinCeuticals offers advanced skincare solutions designed for sensitive skin. Our skincare specialists can evaluate your skin and recommend products that are meticulously formulated to calm, soothe, and minimize signs of sensitivity, including the appearance of skin redness.

What role do antioxidants play in SkinCeuticals products?
Antioxidants are the foundation of SkinCeuticals products. Each antioxidant serum offers sophisticated environmental protection, backed by clinical evidence that showcases its ability to enhance the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and foster a naturally balanced skin tone.

Can I combine multiple SkinCeuticals products in my skincare routine?
Absolutely. Discover your foundational regimen during your consultation with one of our skincare specialists. Our team works with you to develop a customized skincare regimen tailored to your needs and goals.

What benefits can I expect from using SkinCeuticals vitamin C products?
SkinCeuticals’ renowned vitamin C products contain powerful ingredients that have been clinically proven to neutralize free radicals, protect against oxidative stress, and offer visible anti-aging benefits.

Do SkinCeuticals products address specific skincare concerns like aging or pigmentation?
We carry the complete SkinCeuticals line, including glycolic acid formulas available in cleansers, serums, toners, or creams. With an array of products, we can tailor a plan that addresses fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, uneven skin tone and texture, and many other specific skin concerns.

Can SkinCeuticals products be used in conjunction with treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion?
SkinCeuticals products are specially formulated to complement cosmetic procedures, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, and injectables, to protect your skin post-treatment and enhance your results.

Are there any precautions I should take while using SkinCeuticals products?
Consulting with one of our skincare specialists before investing in new skincare products is the best precaution you can take to ensure optimal results and compatibility with your unique skin needs.

How long does it typically take to see results from using SkinCeuticals products?
Consistent use is essential to see results from medical-grade skincare products like SkinCeuticals. Many patients see visible improvements within 4-12 weeks, depending on the specific products used and individual skin conditions.

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With dozens of services, decades of experience, thousands of 5-star reviews, there's no one you can trust more with your skin care needs than the team at PotozkinMD.