What is Blu U Light therapy and how does it work?
At DSA Dermatology of Plano, Texas, we help patients with conditions such as acne, Actinic Keratosis, and other skin concerns find solutions to improve their skin’s health and appearance. For many of our patients struggling with acne, we may recommend our BLU-U light therapy. This treatment uses light-based treatment combined with a compound called Levulan to rejuvenate the skin and remove damaged cells while also combating bacteria that may reside on the skin to reduce acne and improve pre-cancerous areas of Actinic Keratosis.
Conditions for treatment
- Actinic Keratosis (pre-cancer scaly red spots)
- Acne (Cystic) or resistant inflammatory acne
- Aging skin. PDT with Levulan and Blu-U can treat difficult fine wrinkles, skin roughness, sun/actinic damage, and mottled hyperpigmentation. It cannot be used for melasma.
What to expect during a Blue Light Therapy treatment session for acne, Actinic Keratosis, or other skin conditions
Generally, after cleansing, the treatment area will be applied with Levulan, a clear liquid compound. Levulan can cover a wide area or be used only on spots. It allows the Blu-U light to penetrate much more deeply into the skin, especially the damaged or inflamed areas. PDT in acne works by destroying the bacterial component in inflammatory or cystic acne and helps the skin to start repairing itself. Similarly, with Actinic Keratosis or the pre-cancer spots, the Levulan allows the Blu-U light therapy to eradicate the damaged cells and allows the skin to start repairing itself. Although this is an aggressive treatment for aging, it works in a similar fashion by eliminating old, damaged cells and helping the skin to start making more collagen and elastin and begin to remodel some of the signs of aging.
How does the Blu-U treatment work?
Generally, Blu-U is always used in combination with the sensitizing agent Levulan (levulinic acid). The Blu-U then activates the Levulan to target specific areas it has been applied to.
How many treatments do I need?
Treatments are usually done two times and spaced three to four weeks apart. You must be over the age of 15 years to have this treatment. Acne patients can choose to do the “blue light” therapy with the Blu-U only without the Levulan. It generally takes four to five sessions spaced one week apart. In this way, it is typically less effective than using the Levulan-Blu-U combination.
A note about sunscreen and skin protection following treatment
When using the Blu-U and Levulan you must wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight/sun exposure for 48hours after your treatment. If possible, you are advised to remain indoors during sunlight hours for two days (48 hours). Inappropriate exposure to sunlight can cause severe sunburn with possible peeling, redness, and swelling. Your sunscreen will not protect you from this reaction if you expose your skin to direct sunlight within 48 hours after your treatment.
How much does this treatment cost?
Insurance sometimes covers this treatment. Depending on the insurance, they may cover the Blu-U, the Levulan, or both, or neither. Our office can easily tell you if your insurance will cover this treatment, and if not, what the cost will be to you before you decide to have the treatment.
How do I learn more?
Drs. D. Achtman and J. Achtman of DSA Dermatology in Plano, TX, advise patients to learn more about the unique technology used in our office to achieve healthy and beautiful skin! Call (972) 362-9567 to request an appointment at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite #150.
Why Choose DSA Dermatology?
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX,
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX, Dr. Daniel S. Achtman, Dr. Carmine G. McConnell and Dr. Jordan. Achtman.
Dr. Achtman is a board-certified Dermatologist with over three decades of experience. Having graduated from the medical school of McMaster University, he also studied at the UTSW Medical Center in Dallas, TX where he also served as Chief Resident in the Department of Dermatology. In addition to possessing extensive training and experience in cosmetic enhancement techniques, Dr. Achtman is widely known as a leading expert in the diagnosis and treatment of various skin cancers. He is an active member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Achtman goes the extra mile to understand your medical concerns and to ensure that he helps you meet your unique aesthetic goals.
Dr. Carmine G. McConnell is a board-certified physician in Plano TX. Having been trained at McMaster University, Canada, she went on to earn her board certification in Texas. Having served as Chief of Staff of her department at Plano Medical Center, she has over two decades of experience in practicing medicine in her practice and while assisting Dr. Achtman in the practice of dermatology. In addition to her extensive postgraduate training in laser therapy and aesthetic surgery, among other procedures, she possesses vast experience in both cosmetic dermatological techniques and family medicine. As a conscientious and caring physician, Dr. McConnell provides her patients with customized non-surgical treatments to help address health and aesthetic concerns related to the skin. She is also keen on helping patients understand their skin and how it can be cared for and protected.
Dr. Jordan Achtman is a board-certified dermatologist in DSA Dermatology at Plano, TX. Dr. J. Achtman graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and completed his residency in dermatology at UT Southwestern. His expertise spans general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. J. Achtman also has various special interests including chronic itch, infectious diseases of the skin, and the relationship between mental health and skin health. He is also very keen on helping patients form healthy skincare regimens and habits. In the hands of Dr. J. Achtman, you can be assured of innovative and cutting edge solutions for all your skin concerns.
