Levulan Kerastick
Photodynamic Therapy

While some patients may be looking for a cosmetic solution to skin laxity, others face more serious problems such as cystic acne or actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions). At Desert Med Aesthetics, Dr. Cosgrove has invested in state-of-the-art technology like the Levulan Kerastick Photodynamic therapy system. This unique non-invasive approach makes it possible for patients to achieve smooth skin quickly and effectively.

What is Actinic Keratosis?

Also referred to as AKs, actinic keratoses are crusty growths that develop on skin that has been exposed to the sun or artificial UV light such as a tanning bed. These growths are often asymptomatic, with many patients only taking notice that they have developed when they touch them. While the growths usually appear on the face, they can also develop on bare scalps, ears, shoulders, hands, arms, and legs.

The condition is not uncommon, but actinic keratoses are much more serious than common skin flaws. When left untreated, these growths can become cancerous. Actinic keratosis has been specifically tied to the development of squamous cell carcinoma. As a result, early diagnosis and treatment is especially important.

In the past, actinic keratosis treatments have ranged from cryo- and laser surgery to topical treatment with gels and creams. However, these solutions can be invasive and unpleasant. For example, 5-fluoro-uracil or “5FU” is usually recommended for actinic keratoses therapy. However, this heavy-duty topical cream can also severely damage surrounding tissue, leaving patients with painful burns in the weeks following treatment.

What is Cystic Acne?

While many may associate severe acne with puberty, cystic acne in adulthood is more common than most people think. Caused when oil ducts become clogged and infected, cystic acne lies deep within the dermal tissue and is often identified by the presence of a large white bump, increased redness and the presence of a large, pus-filled cyst. The condition frequently appears throughout the face, although some individuals may develop cysts on their neck, back, chest or arms. Regardless of where the cysts develop, they are extremely painful for patients. Furthermore, cystic acne has a strong tendency to scar if left untreated.

While cystic acne can develop on any patient, there are certain causes and risk factors that put particular patients at a higher risk than others. Increases in testosterone, certain progesterone-based contraceptive pills, diet and even family history can all contribute to the development of the condition.

Schedule a Consultation

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Dr. Doriana Cosgrove

Since opening Desert Med Aesthetics, Dr. Doriana Cosgrove has dedicated her career to providing men and women with comprehensive, personalized care in a welcoming environment.

Starting with your initial consultation, you’ll be welcomed by a staff that is genuinely committed to helping you achieve your goals. For new patients, your first visit is focused on identifying problem areas that are keeping you from feeling confident about your appearance.

Whether you’re visiting Dr. Cosgrove for the first time or returning for touch-ups, the team at Desert Med Aesthetics looks forward to providing you with the aesthetic care you deserve.

The Levulan Kerastick Difference

In recent years, research in cosmetic medicine has allowed industry leaders to develop new techniques and technologies that effectively address the medical issue at hand. Levulan Kerastick Photodynamic therapy is a unique treatment.

Photodynamic therapy is a fairly new actinic keratosis treatment. Under this non-surgical outpatient procedure, a light-sensitive solution containing the Levulan medication is applied to the precancerous lesions. After the solution has been absorbed, a special blue light is aimed at the lesions, essentially destroying them.

Actinic keratoses therapy with the Levulan Kerastick is a two-step process that requires little to no downtime and can be completed in less than 24 hours. Best of all, this treatment leaves patients with smooth, scar-free skin that would otherwise be compromised with traditional therapies.

In the case of cystic acne, the photodynamic properties of this solution combined with the potent, yet skin-safe solution make Levulan Kerastick an effective acne therapy. As the topical solution is applied to the skin, it is absorbed by the sebaceous glands that cause cystic acne outbreaks. When the special light is used, the glands shrink and reduce the risk of future outbreaks.

Unlike some typical visits at a dermatologist’s office, we can use the Levulan solution combined with IPL (Intense Pulse Light) laser therapy to eliminate the need for any additional treatments.

After actinic keratoses therapy for cystic acne, patients may find they experience temporary swelling or redness post-procedure; however, these side effects will dissipate within a few days. While the Levulan Kerastick requires no downtime, it is still important that patients avoid sun exposure and intense light for at least 48 hours following therapy.

Treat Actinic Keratoses with Levulan Kerastick Therapy in Indian Wells

Treating actinic keratosis is not just a matter of improving your appearance – it is critical to preserving your well-being. Learn more about this condition and available treatment options by scheduling your consultation at Desert Med Aesthetics with Dr. Cosgrove. During your visit, our Indian Wells cosmetic specialist will provide an in-depth analysis of your condition and can recommend the appropriate solution. Call 760-777-8772 today to get started.

Schedule a Consultation

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Dr. Doriana Cosgrove

Since opening Desert Med Aesthetics, Dr. Doriana Cosgrove has dedicated her career to providing men and women with comprehensive, personalized care in a welcoming environment.

Starting with your initial consultation, you’ll be welcomed by a staff that is genuinely committed to helping you achieve your goals. For new patients, your first visit is focused on identifying problem areas that are keeping you from feeling confident about your appearance.

Whether you’re visiting Dr. Cosgrove for the first time or returning for touch-ups, the team at Desert Med Aesthetics looks forward to providing you with the aesthetic care you deserve.