A New Era in Skin Cancer Prevention
At Skin Check Australia, we are proud to soon offer Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) — an advanced, non-invasive treatment for precancerous skin lesions such as actinic keratoses (solar keratoses). This innovative therapy uses light energy combined with a photosensitising solution called ALA (aminolevulinic acid) to selectively destroy damaged skin cells while leaving healthy tissue untouched.
PDT represents the next step in skin cancer prevention, giving patients a highly effective and cosmetically gentle alternative to surgical removal or cryotherapy for certain types of sun-damaged skin, eliminating up to 80% of pre-cancerous lesions.
How PDT Treatment Works
Photodynamic Therapy works by harnessing a unique light-activated chemical reaction within the skin:
- Application of ALA Solution
A topical cream or solution containing 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is carefully applied to the affected area. ALA is absorbed by abnormal or precancerous cells more readily than by healthy cells. - Incubation Phase
The solution is left on the skin for a set period (usually 1–3 hours) to allow the ALA to penetrate and accumulate inside damaged cells. - Light Activation
The treated area is then exposed to a specific wavelength of red or blue light. This light activates the ALA within the abnormal cells, generating a targeted reaction that destroys these cells without harming surrounding healthy skin. - Healing and Renewal
Over the next several days, the treated skin may lightly crust, flake, or peel, revealing fresh, healthy new skin beneath.
This process not only treats visible precancerous lesions but also helps rejuvenate sun-damaged skin — improving tone, texture, and appearance.
Why ALA Is So Effective
ALA (aminolevulinic acid) is a naturally occurring compound that plays a key role in how PDT targets and removes abnormal skin cells. When applied topically, ALA is converted within precancerous cells into a light-sensitive substance called protoporphyrin IX.
When activated by the treatment light, this compound reacts with oxygen to produce a form of energy that selectively destroys abnormal cells from within.
This precision makes ALA-PDT ideal for treating:
- Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses)
- Bowen’s disease (superficial squamous cell carcinoma in situ)
- Sun-damaged skin with field cancerisation — where multiple precancerous areas develop across the face, scalp, or hands.
Benefits of PDT Treatment
✅ Non-surgical and minimally invasive
✅ Precise targeting of abnormal cells while sparing healthy skin
✅ Excellent cosmetic outcomes — minimal scarring or pigment change
✅ Quick treatment and recovery time
✅ Ideal for multiple or widespread lesions
✅ Effective prevention — reduces the risk of new lesions forming
For many patients, PDT offers a comfortable, effective, and highly aesthetic solution to treating precancerous lesions caused by years of sun exposure.
PDT at Skin Check Australia — Coming Soon OCTOBER 2025!
Skin Check Australia will soon introduce PDT treatment using ALA across selected clinics. Our trained professionals, including melanographers, dermoscopists, and clinical practitioners, will be certified in the safe and effective delivery of Photodynamic Therapy.
Every treatment will be carried out under the supervision of experienced skin cancer detection experts, ensuring your care is guided by both medical precision and patient comfort.
Our team will also provide:
- Pre-treatment consultations to assess your skin and suitability for PDT
- Personalised aftercare advice to support healing
- Long-term follow-up and skin monitoring for prevention and peace of mind
This new service aligns with our ongoing commitment to early detection, prevention, and treatment of skin cancer in Australia.
Is PDT Right for You?
PDT is ideal for patients with:
- Multiple actinic keratoses on the face, scalp, or hands
- A history of sun damage or prior non-melanoma skin cancers
- A desire to avoid surgery or scarring
- A focus on skin rejuvenation and prevention
If you’ve noticed rough, scaly patches or new sun-damaged areas on your skin, our team can assess whether ALA-PDT therapy is the best option for you.
Protect Your Skin with Skin Check Australia
With Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) soon available at Skin Check Australia, you’ll have access to one of the most advanced and effective treatments for precancerous lesions.
Our expert clinicians are here to help you achieve healthy, cancer-free skin — through professional detection, modern therapy, and preventive care.
📅 Stay tuned for our official PDT treatment launch!
💻 Visit www.skincheckaustralia.com.au to learn more or join our mailing list for updates.