How Can Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Treat Skin Cancer?

Photodynamic Therapy Skin Cancer Treatment by our Board-Certified Dermatologist in Boca Raton, Pompano, and Palm Beach Gardens

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), also called blue light therapy, is a non-surgical treatment for precancerous skin lesions and some early skin cancers caused by cumulative sun exposure.

Here in South Florida, where UV exposure is daily, blue light treatment for skin cancer helps treat existing damage and reduce the risk of future skin cancer.

At Frieder Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists provide this light-activated skin treatment at our Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, and Pompano Beach offices. We use FDA-approved solutions such as Levulan® and Ameluz®, along with advanced blue light therapy, to selectively target abnormal cells while preserving healthy skin.

A woman at Frieder Dermatology in Boca Raton receiving a photodynamic therapy treatment for skin cancer.
“Photodynamic therapy treats sun damage before it becomes skin cancer, offering an effective, low-downtime approach.”
– Jillian H. Frieder, MD FAAD – Frieder Dermatology

How Does PDT Work?

This skin cancer treatment combines a light-sensitive medication with a controlled light source to target damaged cells. The process is:

  1. Apply a topical solution (Levulan® Kerastick® or Ameluz®) to the treatment area.
  2. Allow time for absorption; abnormal cells absorb the medication more readily.
  3. Expose the area to blue light therapy (Blu-U®), which triggers a reaction that destroys damaged cells.

This treatment is commonly used on the face, scalp, chest, and other sun-exposed areas. The surrounding healthy skin remains largely unaffected.

An illustrated infographic showing how photodynamic therapy works.

What Conditions Can Photodynamic Therapy Treat?

Photodynamic therapy is most effective for:

  • Actinic keratosis, precancerous lesions from sun damage
  • Widespread sun-damaged skin with high risk of future skin cancer
  • Select superficial or early non-melanoma skin cancers under dermatologic supervision
  • Patients who are not ideal candidates for surgery

Because this approach treats visible lesions and early damage beneath the surface, it is considered a field therapy.

“Many patients are surprised by how much sun damage exists beneath the skin. This treatment addresses visible damage and early changes that have not appeared yet.”
– Dr. Jillian Frieder

What to Expect During PDT Therapy

This in-office light-based treatment usually takes a few hours from start to finish. During your visit, we:

  • Clean and prepare the treatment area
  • Apply the photosensitizing medication
  • Allow absorption time
  • Expose the area to blue light therapy

You may feel warmth, tingling, or mild burning during light exposure. Redness, peeling, or crusting is normal in the days after treatment. Most patients resume normal activities in a few days, but strict sun protection is critical after therapy.

How Photodynamic Therapy Fits Into Skin Cancer Care

Blue light therapy for skin cancer is part of a broader skin cancer prevention strategy. It works alongside routine skin cancer screening to lower the risk of precancerous lesions progressing into invasive cancers.

For patients needing additional care, Frieder Dermatology offers:

This allows patients to move from prevention to treatment within one practice.

Who Should Consider Photodynamic Therapy?

You may be a good candidate for this treatment if you:

  • Have multiple rough, scaly patches on your face, scalp, or chest
  • Have a history of skin cancer
  • Have extensive sun damage not treated by individual spot therapy
  • Prefer a non-surgical treatment with minimal downtime
  • Are under regular dermatologic surveillance

We evaluate your skin type, medical history, and treatment goals to recommend the most effective treatment. Early intervention often reduces the need for more invasive procedures.

Why Choose Frieder Dermatology for Skin Cancer Treatment?

Patients choose us because we provide expert, evidence-based care delivered clearly and compassionately.

  • Board-certified dermatologists with advanced training
  • Experience treating complex sun damage and precancerous skin
  • Access to both non-invasive and surgical skin cancer treatments
  • Convenient offices in Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, and Pompano Beach

One patient shared: “I was nervous, but Dr. Frieder explained everything clearly. The treatment was easier than expected, and my skin looks healthier than it has in years. I feel confident knowing we treated damage I could not see.”

Scheduling a Dermatologist Consultation

If you have precancerous lesions or sun damage concerns, schedule a consultation with our dermatologists. Appointments are available in Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, or Pompano Beach. Click here or call (561) 210-7310 to discuss whether photodynamic therapy is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is photodynamic therapy painful?
A: Most patients feel temporary discomfort during light exposure, which resolves quickly.

Q: How many treatments are needed?
A: Some patients need one session, while others require a series, depending on sun damage.

Q: Can photodynamic therapy treat skin cancer?

A: Yes. Photodynamic therapy is used for precancerous lesions and select early non-melanoma skin cancers.

Q: Is photodynamic therapy covered by insurance?

A: Coverage varies. Our office helps review your benefits.

 

About the Author

Dr. Jillian Frieder is a board-certified dermatologist providing medical and cosmetic dermatology services in Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, and Pompano Beach. She completed her dermatology residency at Baylor University Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident, and is known for her expertise in skin cancer prevention and treatment.