For the non-invasive treatment of various skin disorders and damage from excess sun exposure, Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a reliable and convenient remedy. When combined with hyaluronic acid for moisturizing and rejuvenating our body's largest organ, this increasingly popular therapy can significantly improve the appearance of your skin. 

Photodynamic Therapy and Hyaluronic Acid

Research findings in recent years, published in the Archives of Dermatological Research (ADR), have found a positive correlation between photodynamic therapy results and the use of hyaluronic acid-containing preparations. Photodynamic therapy has found wide application in the past decade, from the treatment of carcinoma and early forms of skin cancer to warts, psoriasis, and fine lines and wrinkles. For the purpose of skin rejuvenation, photodynamic therapy has shown particularly promising results when combined with hyaluronic acid for improving the appearance of skin spots, enlarged pores, UV spots, brown spots and inflamed areas.  

All participants in this recent ADR pilot case series reported improvements in their skin and a minimum of pain and discomfort both during and after the procedure. The treatment protocol included three sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. The participants were instructed to wash their faces with a gentle cleanser prior to the session, before applying a photodynamic gel with hyaluronic acid to their faces, and then massaging it into the skin for 10 minutes. After remaining in a dark room for forty minutes, the gel was washed off and the light exposure therapy was conducted for twenty minutes.  

Following the 12-week treatment protocol, participants reported notable improvements in their pore size, as well as positive changes in skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles. Although previous studies have reported higher levels of pain and discomfort during and after photodynamic therapy sessions, the participants in this pilot study reported minimal to low levels of post-therapy irritation. Dryness was the most common side effect in the week following each treatment, along with occasional itching, peeling and soreness. 

Hyaluronic Acid: Before and After

Hyaluronic acid has been accepted as a beneficial part of the photodynamic process because of its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing nature. In the past, other photosensitizers used in conjunction with light therapy have demonstrated poor water solubility and penetration of the skin, whereas hyaluronic acid is a natural emollient compound produced by the body that retains water incredibly well. 

Hyaluronic acid as a photosensitizing agent is applied before the photodynamic therapy because it will be activated by exposure to the LED light source. When the absorbed molecules are activated by the light, they create oxygen free radicals that can eliminate problematic tissue, leading to the visible results of this therapeutic approach. 

As mentioned earlier, some patients experience side effects from photodynamic therapy, including skin dryness, peeling, redness, itching, tingling, or pain. Most of these side effects are short in duration and mild, but there are options for prevention or rapid relief. In addition to avoiding direct sunlight exposure for 48-72 hours after the treatment, you can also choose a moisturizing cream containing hyaluronic acid, as it will be gentle on the skin and may extend the effects of your light therapy session, while reducing inflammation and discomfort.

NeuLuna: A Moisturizing Complement

For those starting out on a photodynamic therapy journey, the Day and Night Cream from NeuLuna is an ideal choice for post-therapy application. With hyaluronic acid as the primary active ingredient, along with a novel delivery system that penetrates deeper dermal layers, this skin serum is both a preventative measure and a reliable symptom reliever. 

Further benefitting from rosehip oil and oleyl erucate, this twice-daily cream is soothing on the skin and readily absorbs deep into inflamed, dry or irritated areas. 

Whether you are trying photodynamic therapy for the first time, or are seeking a new post-therapy moisturizer, visit our website for more details on how our patented skin solution can help.