Skin cancer prevention focuses on identifying high-risk lesions early and treating sun-damaged skin that may develop into skin cancer. We offer:

• Full-body skin exams
  
• Dermoscopic evaluation
  
• Mole mapping & lesion monitoring
  
• Pre-cancer (actinic keratosis) treatment
  
• Sun damage evaluation
  
• Patient education & prevention counseling
  
  

Prevention and early detection are essential components of our medical dermatology services.

Symptoms of concern include:

• New or changing moles
  
• Rough, scaly patches (actinic keratoses)
  
• Non-healing sores
  
• Pink, crusted, or bleeding spots
  
• New growths or persistent redness
  
  

If concerning lesions appear, prompt evaluation is recommended.

What Is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a medical treatment that uses a topical solution called aminolevulinic acid (ALA) in combination with blue light to treat:

• Actinic keratoses (precancers)
  
• Severe sun damage
  
• High-risk areas such as face, scalp, and chest
  
  

PDT destroys abnormal, precancerous cells while preserving healthy skin. It is a powerful prevention tool for patients with extensive sun damage or multiple actinic keratoses.

How PDT (Blue Light Therapy) Works

1. ALA application
   A photosensitizing solution is applied to the skin and absorbed by abnormal cells.
   
2. Incubation
   The solution sits for a prescribed period (usually 1–3 hours).
   
3. Blue light activation
   A gentle blue light activates the medication, selectively destroying damaged or precancerous skin cells.
   
4. Healing & renewal
   Over the following days, treated areas exfoliate and regenerate healthier skin.
   
   

PDT is often recommended for patients with chronic sun damage on the face, scalp, chest, hands, or forearms.

Benefits of PDT Blue Light Therapy

• Treats precancerous actinic keratoses
  
• Reduces long-term skin cancer risk
  
• Improves sun damage and texture
  
• Selectively targets abnormal cells
  
• Non-invasive and well-tolerated
  
• Minimal scarring
  
• Can treat large areas at once (such as entire scalp or face)
  
  

For cosmetic improvement of sun damage or discoloration, some patients also consider chemical peels or IPL laser.

What to Expect During PDT Treatment

• Treatment time: 2–3 hours (including incubation)
  
• Sensation: mild warmth, tingling, or burning during blue light exposure
  
• Aftercare: redness and peeling for several days
  
• Sun avoidance: strict sun protection is required for 48 hours after treatment
  
  

A series of one or more sessions may be recommended depending on severity.

Who Is a Good Candidate for PDT?

PDT may be recommended for patients with:

• Multiple actinic keratoses
  
• Significant sun damage
  
• History of skin cancer
  
• Precancerous lesions on the face or scalp
  
• Failure to respond to topical treatments
  

If you have a history of melanoma or other conditions, your dermatologist will determine if PDT is appropriate.

Why Choose MDCS Dermatology?

MDCS Dermatology is a national leader in skin cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. As a community affiliate of Memorial Sloan Kettering and home to multiple fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons, MDCS provides unmatched expertise in managing sun damage and precancerous lesions.

We offer convenient locations in Manhattan, Long Island, and New Jersey for ongoing skin health and cancer prevention.

 

Concerned about sun damage or precancers?
Schedule your skin cancer screening or PDT consultation at MDCS Dermatology.

Frequently Asked Questions


1. What are actinic keratoses (precancers)?

Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches caused by sun damage. They are precancerous and can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if untreated.

2. How does PDT help prevent skin cancer?

PDT selectively destroys abnormal, precancerous cells that are at risk of turning into skin cancer. It treats sun-damaged areas before cancer forms.

3. Is PDT painful?

Most patients experience warmth or tingling during blue light exposure. Any discomfort is temporary and resolves soon after treatment.

4. What is the downtime for PDT?

Redness, peeling, or crusting may occur for several days. Strict sun avoidance is required for 48 hours after treatment.

5. How many PDT sessions will I need?

Many patients need 1–2 treatments. Those with extensive damage may need annual or semi-annual treatments.

6. Is PDT safe for all skin types?

PDT is best suited for lighter skin tones. Your dermatologist will evaluate whether PDT is right for you.

7. What areas can be treated with PDT?

Common areas include the face, scalp, chest, arms, and hands—areas with chronic sun damage.

8. Where is PDT offered at MDCS Dermatology?

PDT and skin cancer prevention services are available at our Manhattan, Long Island, and New Jersey locations. Visit our locations page.