BLU-U Light Therapy
What is BLU-U Light Therapy and How Does it Work?
At DSA Dermatology of Plano, Texas, we help patients with conditions such as acne, Actinic Keratosis, and other skin concerns find solutions to improve their skin’s health and appearance. For many of our patients struggling with acne, we may recommend our BLU-U light therapy. This treatment uses light-based treatment combined with a compound called Levulan to rejuvenate the skin and remove damaged cells while also combating bacteria that may reside on the skin to reduce acne and improve pre-cancerous areas of Actinic Keratosis.
Conditions for treatment
- Actinic Keratosis (pre-cancer scaly red spots)
- Acne (Cystic) or resistant inflammatory acne
- Aging skin. PDT with Levulan and Blu-U can treat difficult fine wrinkles, skin roughness, sun/actinic damage, and mottled hyperpigmentation. It cannot be used for melasma.

What to expect during a Blue Light Therapy treatment session for acne, Actinic Keratosis, or other skin conditions
Generally, after cleansing, the treatment area will be applied with Levulan, a clear liquid compound. Levulan can cover a wide area or be used only on spots. It allows the Blu-U light to penetrate much more deeply into the skin, especially the damaged or inflamed areas. PDT in acne works by destroying the bacterial component in inflammatory or cystic acne and helps the skin to start repairing itself. Similarly, with Actinic Keratosis or the pre-cancer spots, the Levulan allows the Blu-U light therapy to eradicate the damaged cells and allows the skin to start repairing itself. Although this is an aggressive treatment for aging, it works in a similar fashion by eliminating old, damaged cells and helping the skin to start making more collagen and elastin and begin to remodel some of the signs of aging.
How does the Blu-U treatment work?
Generally, Blu-U is always used in combination with the sensitizing agent Levulan (levulinic acid). The Blu-U then activates the Levulan to target specific areas it has been applied to.
How many treatments do I need?
Treatments are usually done two times and spaced three to four weeks apart. You must be over the age of 15 years to have this treatment. Acne patients can choose to do the “blue light” therapy with the Blu-U only without the Levulan. It generally takes four to five sessions spaced one week apart. In this way, it is typically less effective than using the Levulan-Blu-U combination.
A note about sunscreen and skin protection following treatment
When using the Blu-U and Levulan you must wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight/sun exposure for 48hours after your treatment. If possible, you are advised to remain indoors during sunlight hours for two days (48 hours). Inappropriate exposure to sunlight can cause severe sunburn with possible peeling, redness, and swelling. Your sunscreen will not protect you from this reaction if you expose your skin to direct sunlight within 48 hours after your treatment.
How much does this treatment cost?
Insurance sometimes covers this treatment. Depending on the insurance, they may cover the Blu-U, the Levulan, or both, or neither. Our office can easily tell you if your insurance will cover this treatment, and if not, what the cost will be to you before you decide to have the treatment.
How do I learn more?
Drs. D. Achtman and J. Achtman of DSA Dermatology in Plano, TX, advise patients to learn more about the unique technology used in our office to achieve healthy and beautiful skin! Call (972) 362-9567 to request an appointment at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite #150.