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Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) treatment in NYC at Marie Hayag MD is performed within a private Upper East Side dermatology practice focused on medical precision, skin health, and long-term disease prevention. As a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, Dr. Hayag provides physician-guided Photodynamic Therapy for actinic keratoses, sun damage, and acne using carefully customized protocols tailored to each patient’s skin type and medical history.
Unlike cosmetic-only procedures, Photodynamic Therapy is a medically indicated treatment designed to address abnormal cellular activity and reduce the risk of progression in sun-damaged skin.
Photodynamic Therapy is widely used for actinic keratosis treatment, targeting precancerous lesions caused by chronic sun exposure. These rough, scaly patches can progress to non-melanoma skin cancer if left untreated. PDT treats visible lesions and can also address field cancerization, areas of widespread sun damage where abnormal cells may not yet be visible.
For patients with chronic or treatment-resistant acne, PDT reduces acne-causing bacteria and helps regulate sebaceous gland activity, leading to decreased breakouts and inflammation. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients seeking a non-systemic, physician-supervised alternative.
By selectively targeting abnormal or overactive cells, Photodynamic Therapy supports healthy cellular turnover, improves skin texture and tone, and enhances long-term resilience.
At Marie Hayag MD, Photodynamic Therapy NYC is performed under the supervision of a board-certified dermatologist to ensure:
Although minimally invasive, PDT requires precise calibration to reduce potential side effects such as redness, irritation, or photosensitivity.
Each patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, including review of skin type, sun damage severity, and overall dermatologic health. This ensures treatment is both safe and effective.
Because PDT involves controlled photosensitivity and cellular destruction, physician calibration of incubation time and light intensity is critical to balancing efficacy and recovery. This physician-led approach distinguishes medical PDT from medspa treatments and supports long-term dermatologic care integration.
Photodynamic Therapy is a two-step light-activated therapy that combines:
The medication selectively absorbs into abnormal or overactive skin cells. When activated by light, it produces a reaction that destroys targeted tissue while sparing healthy surrounding skin.
PDT is commonly used in dermatology for:
Because it addresses abnormal cellular activity at a deeper level, PDT is both therapeutic and preventative.
Photodynamic Therapy may be recommended for:
A consultation is required to determine candidacy and customize the treatment plan.
The treatment begins with application of a prescription photosensitizing agent. This medication is absorbed by abnormal cells over a controlled incubation period, typically ranging from 30 to 120 minutes depending on the treatment area and protocol.
Once activated by a specific wavelength light source, the medication generates a photochemical reaction that selectively destroys damaged or abnormal cells.
Over the following days:
Redness and peeling typically occur for 3–7 days, depending on the depth and surface area treated.
Because PDT treats both visible lesions and subclinical damage, it is often used as a non-surgical skin cancer prevention strategy in high-risk patients.
Photodynamic Therapy offers:
Clinical studies have demonstrated high clearance rates for actinic keratoses following PDT, with significant reduction in lesion recurrence when used appropriately.
When performed under board-certified supervision, PDT is a safe and effective medical dermatology treatment.
A comprehensive evaluation determines whether PDT is appropriate and identifies treatment areas. Your dermatologist assesses actinic keratoses, sun damage severity, and acne activity.
A photosensitizing agent is applied to the treatment area and allowed to incubate for a physician-determined period.
The skin is exposed to a specialized light source that activates the medication and targets abnormal cells. Patients may experience warmth, tingling, or mild stinging during this phase.
Temporary redness, peeling, and light sensitivity are common. Most patients resume normal activities within several days, with strict sun protection required during the recovery period.
Photodynamic Therapy may be appropriate for individuals who:
A physician consultation ensures safety, candidacy, and realistic expectations.
At Marie Hayag MD, Photodynamic Therapy is delivered through a physician-led, detail-oriented approach focused on disease prevention, skin health, and effective outcomes.
Each treatment plan is customized based on:
If you are concerned about actinic keratoses, sun-damaged skin, or persistent acne, our Upper East Side dermatology practice serves patients throughout New York City seeking expert medical care.
To schedule your Photodynamic Therapy consultation, call 212.722.2055 or book online.
Patients may experience warmth, tingling, or stinging during light activation. Discomfort is temporary and closely monitored by the treating physician, with adjustments made as needed.
Redness, peeling, and sensitivity typically last 3–7 days, depending on the treatment area and intensity.
Clinical studies show high clearance rates of actinic keratoses following properly administered PDT. It also treats subclinical lesions within sun-damaged areas, reducing recurrence when used under physician supervision.
PDT treats precancerous actinic keratoses and sun-damaged cells, lowering the risk of progression to certain non-melanoma skin cancers when appropriately indicated.
Some patients achieve results with a single session. Others may require multiple treatments depending on severity and long-term goals.
When used for medically indicated conditions such as actinic keratoses, insurance coverage may apply. Cosmetic indications are typically not covered.
Yes. PDT is often integrated with topical therapies, chemical peels, and physician-guided skincare to support comprehensive dermatologic care.
Photodynamic Therapy is commonly used to treat actinic keratoses, which are precancerous lesions that can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. While PDT is not a treatment for invasive skin cancer, it is widely used as a non-surgical prevention strategy to reduce abnormal cellular activity in sun-damaged skin.
Schedule a personalized consultation with Marie Hayag, MD and her experienced team to receive physician-guided Photodynamic Therapy tailored to your medical and skin health needs.
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