PDT
The QD PDT menu includes extraction of up to 30 suitable lesions, a PDT sheet and 20 minutes of LED. We assess comedones and inflammatory spots, then confirm the sheet’s actual ingredients and light-related precautions.
Who it’s for
- People seeking assessment of comedones and recurring inflammation
- Those comparing extraction with light-based care
- People planning treatment around outdoor activities
The name PDT does not identify a particular photosensitiser, concentration or wavelength. The actual product and method must be confirmed.
How it works
Photodynamic therapy generally combines a light-reactive substance with a light source. This menu specifies a PDT sheet and LED; it should not be assumed equivalent to a particular medicinal PDT protocol without verifying the product. Lesion selection and a photosensitivity review come first.
THE MECHANISM, STEP BY STEP
01Select lesions
Separate extractable comedones from deeper inflamed lesions.
02Check the sheet
Identify light-reactive ingredients and contact allergies.
03Twenty-minute LED
Use eye protection and monitor heat or stinging.
04Plan light exposure
Match outdoor precautions to the actual preparation used.
Treatment areas
- Comedone clusters
- Prioritise suitable lesions within the maximum of 30.
- Recurring inflamed areas
- Deep nodules may require a separate treatment plan.
What the procedure is like
- 1Review medicines, photosensitivity conditions and recent sunlight exposure.
- 2Extract up to 30 suitable lesions and apply the PDT sheet.
- 3Use eye protection during 20 minutes of LED and give product-specific aftercare.
The LED step is 20 minutes; assessment, extraction and sheet preparation take additional time.
Recovery & aftercare
- Use gentle cleansing and moisturising if redness, flaking or warmth develops.
- When a photosensitiser is used, restrict sunlight for the period advised for that product.
What to expect over time
A general guide to how the days and months after treatment usually unfold. Results vary by individual.
Before treatment
Review outdoor plans and medicines affecting light sensitivity.
Immediately afterward
Distinguish extraction marks from light-related irritation.
Reassessment
Track existing spots and the frequency of new inflammation.
Sessions & results
One- and three-session options are available. Repetition and spacing depend on the product and response; medicines or ongoing acne care may still be necessary.
How it compares
PDT centres on the sheet and light step; Basic Acne Care also includes a selected peel and LDM.
| Comparison | PDT | Basic Acne Care |
|---|---|---|
| Scope and purpose | Up to 30 extractions, PDT sheet and 20-minute LED | Selected peel, 10 extractions, LDM acne mode, LED and mask |
Safety & considerations
Possible reactions
- Temporary redness, stinging or flaking
- Photosensitive reactions, pigment changes or occasional blistering
Review before care
- Photosensitivity conditions and medicines
- Recent intense sun exposure, pregnancy, breastfeeding or infection
Report marked pain, blisters or spreading redness. Light avoidance must follow the actual product’s instructions.
Your care at QD Clinic
Explain the preparation
Confirm the sheet and its light-response method.
Prioritise suitable extraction
Do not force difficult lesions simply to reach the maximum count.
Coordinate outdoor plans
Discuss planned outdoor work or photography before treatment.
Frequently asked questions
No. The actual preparation determines whether ALA or another light-reactive ingredient is present and at what concentration. Similar menu names can describe different methods.
Thirty is a maximum, not a target. Fewer may be appropriate, while deep inflamed lesions need separate assessment. Difficult lesions are not forced simply to reach the count, and areas where comedones cluster are prioritised instead.
No. Twenty minutes describes the LED stage. Assessment, extraction and any sheet application or preparation require separate time.
Check the actual product’s photosensitivity advice first. If you cannot avoid sunlight as required, rescheduling may be appropriate. Redness, flaking or warmth can also develop afterwards, so consider how your skin may look on the day of the shoot.
Do not independently change prescribed treatment. Discuss the plan with the prescriber, and mention medicines that may affect light sensitivity before the visit. Even after several PDT sessions, medication or lifestyle measures may still be needed to reduce recurrence.
For international patients
Consultation in English / 中文 / 日本語 · WhatsApp · WeChat · KakaoTalk · a 4-minute walk from Sinnonhyeon / Nonhyeon Station (hours in KST).
How many days should I stay?
Surgery and course-based treatments need a check-up. We tell you before you book whether that means staying longer or coming back another time.
For International Patients