Stop Skin Cancer Before It Starts: The Preventative Power of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Do you have rough, scaly patches on your skin from years in the Arizona sun? These spots are often precancers called actinic keratoses. At Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery, we help patients protect their skin from further damage. Dr. Seth Goodman and our team provide advanced care in Sun City West, Sun City, and Wickenburg, Arizona. 

One of our most effective tools for treating widespread sun damage is photodynamic therapy (PDT). Here’s what you need to know. 

What is photodynamic therapy?

Photodynamic therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that targets abnormal cells. We start by applying a special liquid medication to your skin. This medication is a photosensitizer, which means it makes cells highly sensitive to light. Sun-damaged and precancerous cells absorb this liquid much faster than healthy cells.  

Next, we shine a specific wavelength of light onto the treated area. This light activates the medication to produce a reaction in your skin that destroys abnormal cells while leaving your healthy surrounding skin alone. It acts like a “spot remover” for sun damage at the cellular level, targeting and clearing away invisible precancers before they can grow. 

How effective is PDT at reducing skin cancer risk?

PDT is highly effective at clearing out widespread precancerous lesions. The American Academy of Dermatology gives a conditional recommendation for using photodynamic therapy to treat actinic keratosis. It is especially useful for treating an entire "field" of sun damage at once. 

However, PDT is not a permanent vaccine against skin cancer. A 2022 study of 624 adults tracked patients with head and neck precancers. Their four-year risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma in the treated area was 3.7%.

 Because of this, regular skin checks at our Arizona offices remain absolutely essential. If a lesion does progress, we also specialize in Mohs surgery to safely remove it.

What should you expect during and after PDT?

During the light activation, you will likely feel a strong stinging or burning sensation. We use cooling techniques to help keep you comfortable during this brief step. 

After your session, your skin will be highly sensitive to all visible light. It’s best to stay indoors, especially for the first 48 hours after treatment. 

Also, keep in mind that standard sunscreens do not protect against the visible light that activates the medication. You must stay away from bright windows and outdoor light to prevent severe, sunburn-like reactions. We will give you detailed instructions to ensure a safe, smooth recovery.

Protecting your skin requires proactive care and regular monitoring. If you have rough spots or want to address years of sun damage, we are here to help. Contact Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery today to schedule a visit at one of our convenient Arizona locations.