title: Topical photodynamic therapy: a new tool in cosmetic dermatology.
abstract: Topical photodynamic therapy is an evolving relatively new modality in dermatology. While widely used in Europe for treatment of actinic keratoses and skin cancer, topical photodynamic therapy is still relatively unfamiliar in the United States. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 1999, photodynamic therapy is now being evaluated for superficial epidermal tumors, acne, and cosmetic applications. This article reviews recent advances in this field, with emphasis on skin rejuvenation, acne, and hair removal.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA. dtouma@bu.edu
authors.forename: Dany J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Touma
authors.forename: Barbara A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Gilchrest
mesh_terms: D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000287:Administration, Topical; D000622:Aminolevulinic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007642:Keratosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010778:Photochemotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics
chemical_list: D017319:Photosensitizing Agents; D000622:Aminolevulinic Acid