evulan (Aminolevulinic acid 20%) is a naturally occurring photosensitizing compound which has been approved by the FDA to treat pre-cancerous skin lesions called actinic keratoses. Levulan is applied to the skin and subsequently “activated” by specific wavelengths of light. This process of activating Levulan with light is termed Photodynamic Therapy. The purpose of activating the Levulan is to improve the appearance and reduce acne rosacea, acne vulgaris, sebaceous hyperplasia, sun spots, decrease oiliness of the skin, and improve texture and smoothness. Any pre-cancerous lesions are also simultaneously treated. The improvement of these skin conditions (other than actinic keratoses) is considered an “off-label” use of Levulan.
Levulan is applied to the skin prior to the laser treatment. In order to insure proper absorption of the drug, Levulan is left on the skin for up to four hours. After the incubation period, the area is treated with a specific wavelength of light (laser) to activate the Levulan. After a treatment, all patients should avoid direct sunlight for 24 hours due to photosensitivity.
Anticipated side effects of photodynamic therapy include discomfort, burning, swelling, redness and possible skin peeling, especially in any areas of sun damaged skin and pre-cancers of the skin, as well as lightening or darkening of skin tone and spots, and possible hair removal. The peeling may last about 5 days, and the redness for several weeks if there is an exuberant response to treatment.
Click here to download a PDF file of Pre and Post Levulan Instructions.