Austin Wheelwright, P.A.-C., now offers blue light therapy as a dermatological service at Primary Health Medical Group in Nampa.
Blue light therapy is a non-invasive, non-scarring treatment for the removal of precancerous lesions, or actinic keratoses, which often appear on the face, scalp and hands. It’s most effective for widespread areas on the face or scalp (in those with thinning hair) where cryotherapy may not be effective and the patient wants to avoid cream treatment (fluorouracil).
What to Expect
During a blue light therapy treatment, a specially formulated medicine is placed on the face. After 1-2 hours depending on treatment location, the patient sits under the treatment light for 17 minutes to activate the medicine. The light selectively targets the precancerous skin cells because of their fast growth.
Sun exposure must be avoided for the following 48 hours to prevent severe burns.
Blue light therapy can be done as one or multiple treatments, typically spaced at least one month apart. Patients taking photo-sensitizing blood pressure medications can usually continue to take their medications as prescribed before receiving blue light therapy.
Is Blue Light Therapy Right for You?
To find out if you’re a candidate for blue light therapy to treat your actinic keratoses, please make a skin check appointment with Austin. During your visit, Austin can discuss treatment options with you.