Fractional thermolysis (fraxel) is a method of laser "resurfacing" of the face and body, which helps to deal with skin problems related to age and stress.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical devices, and after thermolysis, skin cells begin to actively produce, as in youth, collagen and elastin, that is, beneficial changesoccur in several layers at once, and not only in the outer epidermis.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can only be performed in specialized clinics.
What is it - fractional photothermolysis, what is the essence of the method and effectiveness, indications and contraindications for procedures on the face and body using fraxel technology, before and after photos, consequences and reviews of the laser procedure, estimated prices and what devices are used - all this we will try to tell you.
general informations
Thermolysis refers to the process of structural destruction of tissues under the influence of high temperatures. The concept was created and publicized by doctors, then put into use by cosmetologists.
And photothermolysis is also the process of thermolysis, but it is caused by exposure to light energy. In cosmetology, it is used during photoepilation and laser "resurfacing" of scars and scars.
Fractional photothermolysis is a technique in which photothermolysis does not affect the entire surface of the skin, but only its individual areas. This means that we can speak of focal destruction of tissues by heating them using laser energy (light).
The essence of the procedure and other names
The fractional photothermolysis procedure is classified as a means of negative stimulation of the skin, because a certain type of injury is applied during the session, in this case burns.
To achieve the expected cosmetic result, you need to start the regeneration process, which restores the skin after damage.
A thermal burn of this type looks like a "column", which forms in the thickness of the dermis under the targeted action of laser beams. This "column" in cosmetology is called "microscopic treatment zone", or in short - MLZ.
In diameter, they cannot reach more than a tenth of a millimeter: from about 0. 1 to 0. 4 mm, with a penetration depth of up to 0. 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, from ten to several thousand of these microtraumas can be localized on a square centimeter of surface, while the impact rate is 3000 MLZ/sec.
If we analyze the mechanism of action of fractional photothermolysis, it is similar to mesoscooter therapy, but when using a roller, microdamages are applied mechanically using needles.
In cosmetology practice, the concept of fractional thermolysis has several commonly used synonyms:
- dermal optical thermolysis;
- DOT therapy;
- fractional laser "polishing";
- LAFT rejuvenation;
- fractional laser nanoperforation;
Ablative and non-ablative method
Laser ablation is the evaporation of a substance using a laser pulse. When using fractionated ablative photothermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation whose energy is primarily absorbed by water molecules.
During a short-term impact on a localized area, the laser beam almost immediately heats the water contained in the tissues, up to 300C. Due to this, the entire "column" evaporates, and in its place a microscopic wound of an open type is formed, which is surrounded by layers of thermally coagulated cells.
After ablative photothermolysis, recovery will be much slower and longer than with a non-ablative method.
But the results of the procedure will be objectively better, and the lifting effect will be clearer. It is preferable to use a cure of 2 to 6 sessions. But during such procedures, the patient is exposed to a certain risk of infection of the tissues of the deep dermal layers.
Non-ablative fractional thermolysis can be attributed to milder microtrauma techniques. A laser beam is used, which practically does not damage the epidermis, burns are formed under it.
Destroyed tissues do not evaporate, but remain in the "column", naturally there are no open wounds. The lifting is not as obvious as with the first ablative method, since the products of cellular breakdown have not been eliminated at the time of the intervention, which means that there is no effect of"tightening" of the skin.
It is recommended to use courses from 3 to 10 sessions. For the patient, there is practically no risk of infection of the deep skin layer, since there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indications, effect
Indications for the appointment of a procedure using Fraxel technology may be the following reasons:
- the need to stimulate withered and aged skin;
- treatment of pigmented/depigmented lesions;
- get rid of scars, post-acne and small scars;
- the need to remove stretch marks.
Not suitable for getting rid of keloid formations.
Benefits
How does this method differ from classic laser "polishing"? With the traditional approach, the burn affects a large area, and with split exposure it has the character of a localized point.
Between the burn lesions there are spaces with intact skin, which makes photothermolysis less traumatic and speeds healing time.
The method is suitable for treating any part of the body, but in most cases it is used specifically for the face. When using Fraxel technology, the beautician can work even with the skin of the eyelids.
A special feature of this optical thermolysis of the dermis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which makes it possible to avoid missing skin areas or overlapping one area on another.
Action mechanism
During the preliminary consultation, the cosmetologist determines what goals the client wants to achieve, finds out possible contraindications to the procedure, talks about possible results and their compliance with the client's expectations.
The doctor will certainly clarify a point about the risks and the development of postoperative complications, as well as how to take care of the skin after undergoing a course of photothermolysis.
It is necessary to discuss in advance and choose the appropriate method of pain relief, and the client should definitely report allergic reactions to drugs, if any.
A few hours before the session, a superficial peeling is carried out, the aim of which is to standardize the thickness of the stratum corneum of the skin.
During the operation, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Their severity can in no way depend on the model of the device used. The level of pain is based on the depth and intensity of the laser beam, and these parameters are determined by the specialist himself, focusing on therapeutic goals.
The more the problem is neglected, the more the deeper layers must be affected.
But usually ordinary creams with an anesthetic effect are used as an anesthetic, which are applied to the working areas no more than 40 minutes before the start of the session.
During the session, the beautician moves a nozzle over the surface, which emits a targeted laser beam. If such a need arises, the same area is treated repeatedly in the same procedure.
The duration is 15 minutes to 1 hour. It all depends on the amount of leather processed. After the fractional photothermolysis is completed, a cream with a calming effect is applied to the "polished" surface.
To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to perform several procedures - from 3 to 10, depending on the type of exposure chosen. You can have a session once a month.
Recommendations (training and rehabilitation)
A few days before the scheduled procedure, the patient should begin prophylactic treatment with antibiotics and antiviral agents. Naturally, if there is objective evidence of this.
On the day of fractional photothermolysis, the person should avoid alcohol and completely abstain from sports.
After the non-ablative photothermolysis procedure, the recovery process lasts up to three days, after the ablation type - at least a week.
If "polishing" was based on removal, then for several days the patient will have reddened skin, swelling, burning sensation and discomfort.
After consulting a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local painkillers to the skin, which are available in the form of a spray.
After at least three days, the color of the "polished" dermis may change slightly. For example, it may become pseudo-tanned, due to increased breakdown of pigment-containing residues from previously necrotic cells.
Dryness will appear, peeling will begin, and a person may even feel itchy for a short time. All these manifestations are not dangerous and will pass on their own in about a week. It is strictly forbidden to scratch the itchy skin!
In order for rehabilitation after fraxel to proceed without complications, you should follow a few basic recommendations:
- you must take care of the skin and make sure to apply the recommended external products. In most cases, these are medications prescribed for the treatment of thermal burns and moisturizing sprays;
- the crust that forms on the surface during wound healing should not be removed artificially, only fall off naturally;
- if before the procedure the patient took antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, their treatment should be continued according to the instructions;
- in order not to develop hyperpigmentation, it is necessary to isolate the treated skin from direct sunlight for a period of at least one month. Generally use sunscreens with SPF 40+;
- during the entire recovery period, it is forbidden to use scrubs and other mechanical methods of cleaning the skin.
Possible side effects and complications
Although fractional photothermolysis is one of the most modern and safest methods, it also has a number of side effects:
- bacterial infection, development of streptoderma or staphyloderma;
- erythema lasting more than three days;
- edema on the surface of the treated skin lasting more than two days;
- hyperpigmentation in the post-inflammatory period;
- the appearance of burn blisters, erosive cracks;
- exacerbation of HSV1 or acne;
- microscopic hemorrhages under the skin.
Contraindications (general and local)
Fractionated photothermolysis is not performed with the following general contraindications:
- oncological tumors;
- the breastfeeding period;
- HSV1 and HSV2 in the acute stage;
- Infectious diseases;
- chronic diseases in the manifestation stage;
- diabetes mellitus of any type;
- defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system;
- disturbances in the work of organs of the hematopoietic system, poor blood clotting;
- the presence of autoimmune diseases;
- tendency to form deep keloid-like scars;
- status epilepticus or convulsive syndrome;
- psychic deviations;
- take isotretinoin for six months;
- a recent tan or a visit to the solarium.
And the following local contraindications:
- any localized inflammatory processes in the intended work area;
- impaired integrity of the skin;
- any neoplasm of unknown origin;
- dry cleaning of the skin or any other procedure that may injure the skin.
Where and on what devices is performed, approximate prices
The cost of a fraxel procedure depends on the area being treated, so estimated prices for fractional laser resurfacing vary.
Only qualified specialists can perform photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetology hospital.
For the fraxel rejuvenation procedure itself, devices with CO2 or an erbium laser are used. Ordinary beauty salons mostly do not have the necessary equipment or qualified personnel.
The use of lasers for aesthetic purposes is still controversial. Be that as it may, procedures based on the action of a laser beam are among the most popular, effective and safest.
Comments
We invite you to read some reviews of Fractional Laser Facial Skin Rejuvenation:
- First review: "I am 35 years old. I went for 2 fractional photothermolysis sessions. The second visit took place 30 days after the first visit. As a result, I noticed that my pores, which were usually slightly enlarged, tightened up and the skin on my forehead and cheeks started to look much more even. I was satisfied. The only thing that bothered me was the peeling that appeared after the second visit. But he disappeared without a trace after three days. Now I look in the mirror and enjoy my own face.
- Second opinion: "I want to share with you my impression of this method, because I felt a positive result. After three procedures, I noticed that my face was clearing up, the pigment spots on certain parts of the face were getting lighter, the scars were starting to peel off less noticeably, and the skin was tightening. These changes did not happen suddenly, but gradually. After about 4 months I started to look 5-6 years younger than my age. I advise everyone who takes care of themselves to try this wonderful thing.
- Third assessment: "I was very afraid of this kind of procedure, believing that there were more undesirable consequences than advantages. However, when the first wrinkles appeared, the idea of "magical skin transformation" began to visit me more and more often. So I decided to do a photothermolysis session. In the process, there were slightly painful, but tolerable sensations. After a while, joyful changes on the face became noticeable: wrinkles around the eyes smoothed out, the complexion brightened, the contour tightened. In general, I liked the effect. I will use this procedure again if necessary.
- Fourth assessment: "I consider this method essential for any woman who wants to remain young and attractive. I discovered something new for me and was immensely satisfied. There are a lot of positive moments and all of them reflected in my face: fine wrinkles and pigmentation are gone, the skin is not so saggy, there is less inflammation and most importantly, I love myself very muchmore. I want to advise everyone to love themselves, not to save on their beauty, and to use effective procedures to maintain their youth.