Photodynamic Therapy in Nashville, Tennessee (TN)

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective skin treatment for sun damage, acne, and pre-skin cancer growths called actinic keratosis on the face, chest, arms, and hands. PDT uses a topical acid and light treatment to target damaged areas of skin and oil glands without affecting healthy skin.

How photodynamic therapy is performed

Photodynamic therapy is a non-invasive in-office treatment that can take 1-4 hours depending on your skin care needs.

Your dermatologist will begin by cleansing your skin and marking out the treatment area with a pen. Then aminolevulinic acid (ALA), which is a clear liquid, is applied to your skin and allowed to soak in for 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on your skin condition and the type of light that will be used. The ALA makes damaged skin cells and acne-causing oil glands extremely sensitive to light exposure. A topical numbing cream may also be applied for your comfort.

After the ALA has soaked in, your skin is then cleaned and your dermatologist shines a blue or red light onto your skin for about 15 minutes. These special lights target and destroy areas of sun damaged skin, pre-cancerous cells, and acne causing oil glands without damaging healthy skin. You may feel a mild stinging or burning sensation during the light treatment.

Recovery and results

Photodynamic therapy can cause noticeable redness, irritation, and skin peeling for about 10 days after treatment, similar to a sunburn. You should be fully healed after about two weeks. You’ll have to avoid sun exposure and wear strong sunblock 48 hours after treatment because your skin will still be hyper-sensitive to light. Some people may need multiple treatments spaced two to four weeks apart for best results.


About Dr. Michael H. Gold

The Laser & Rejuvenation Center was brought to life out of the concept to provide a unique environment to the cosmetic patients who are in search of the best in aesthetic and cosmetic treatment, while being surrounded in a "less than clinical setting." The facility is part of one of the top ranked dermatologic facilities in the country, Gold Skin Care Center of Nashville, Tennessee.

Dr. Michael Gold, a board certified Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon, is the founder of Gold Skin Care Center. Across the globe, Dr. Gold is revered as one of the very best in his field by his colleagues and peers. The Laser & Rejuvenation Center, opened in 2005, is located in the heart of Green Hills on the campus of Gold Skin Care Center. When entering The Center, one quickly forgets that they are in a clinical setting. The modern dcor and private setting offer plush accommodations that even the most discerning client will relish.

From Botox Cosmetic and Restylane to the new Aluma Skin Renewal System, The Laser & Rejuvenation Center offers something for anyone looking to improve the quality and appearance of their skin. With the largest and most advanced collection of lasers and light sources in the southeast, Dr. Gold and his staff will meet your needs by creating a customized plan of care for your skin care needs. They will fit your concern to a laser/light source, not fit a laser/light source to your concern.

Our staff of Certified Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Registered Nurses has extensive experience in the art of injectables such as Botox, Restylane, and other fillers, as well as a thorough understanding of the lasers used at The Center. The staff is well versed in all facets of cosmetic dermatology. Rest assured that you are receiving the very best expertise, from The Center that has 15 years of cosmetic clinical research and international recognition for dermatologic excellence and innovation.

Dr. Gold is a "luminary" for many laser/light source companies, and Gold Skin Care Center has been a training resource center for numerous clinicians over the last 10 years. Dr. Gold is a national trainer for Botox Cosmetic and Restylane, training physicians from all over the world on the "art" of using injectable medicines for cosmetic needs.


Featured Specialist for Photodynamic Therapy in Nashville, TN

Dr. Michael H. Gold

Gold Skin Care Center and Advanced Aesthetics Medi Spa

Call Now: (866) 544-8579
2000 Richard Jones Road
Suite 221
Nashville, TN 37215

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