Can a shorter gel wait time still clear precancerous spots?

NCT ID NCT06507644

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Nove de Julho Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 29, 2026 · Last updated Jul 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a lower-strength light-activated gel (8% vs. 16%) and a shorter wait time before red light treatment (1 hour vs. 3 hours) can effectively clear actinic keratoses—rough, precancerous spots caused by sun damage—on the face. Participants will receive one of four combinations, and researchers will track how many spots disappear completely over six months. The goal is to find a treatment that works well but is faster and possibly gentler.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: a light-activated gel called methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) at 8% or 16% strength, followed by red light therapy
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a shorter, more convenient treatment for precancerous sun-damaged skin spots on the face.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only 4 participants per group, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment can cause skin redness, pain, or blistering.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

actinic keratosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ACTINIC KERATOSES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Anna Carolina R.T. Horliana

São Paulo, São Paulo, 11030-480, Brazil

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