Pilot study to determine the efficacy of ALA-PDT photo-rejuvenation for the treatment of facial ageing

J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2005 Dec;7(3-4):159-62. doi: 10.1080/14764170500344179.

Abstract

Objective: The study was divided into two parts. The objective of the preliminary study was to evaluate the optimum dose and tolerance of 5-aminolaevulinic acid (5-ALA) compared to a placebo cream with a 633-nm LED light in normal, healthy, volunteer forearm skin. The second study was to establish if ALA-PDT treatments improve the signs of ageing.

Results: Threshold photosensitization was observed using 5% 5-ALA under plastic occlusion for 30 minutes following a dose response study of forearm skin. Mild improvement was observed, using this concentration and time, for periorbital skin aging. Other anecdotal positive results of photo-rejuvenation are reported for facial and chest areas.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Aminolevulinic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Eye
  • Forearm
  • Humans
  • Photochemotherapy / methods*
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Rejuvenation
  • Skin Aging*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Aminolevulinic Acid