Fractional laser rejuvenation is a skill in cosmetology. The procedure appeared quite recently, but has already proven itself on the positive side. It is used by all those who wish to rejuvenate the skin of the face, neck, hands. It has many indications and few contraindications.
This type of rejuvenation allows you to smooth the skin, remove scars and scars, and even out skin tone. The procedure takes a few minutes and the effect lasts up to five years. Isn't that what many women dream of: visiting a salon and staying beautiful for a long time? In any case, before signing up for a session, you should consult a doctor, as side effects are possible.
The essence of fractional laser rejuvenation
One of the latest modern developments in cosmetology is the technique of fractional laser rejuvenation. Currently, it is not without reason that we can call the most popular of all laser therapy procedures.
During the session, the laser beam, passed through a special fractional network, breaks down into a large number of micro-beams. This method provides a one-time (fractional) effect on the skin without destroying it completely.
In the dermis layer, a large part of the smaller healing zones are formed, where the development of young, renewed skin tissue occurs very quickly. The cells around the affected areas begin to divide intensely, filling in the damaged areas. As a result, rejuvenation processes are stimulated in the deep layers of the dermis. The micro-rays, acting on the middle and upper layers of skin tissue, help to remove pigmentation, wrinkles and scars.
Fractional laser rejuvenation of the facial skin allows it to gain firmness and elasticity. In addition, thanks to the procedure, the pores are significantly reduced, the oval of the face becomes more toned, the tone and texture of the skin is smoothed, wrinkles and scars are considerably smoothed.
4 types of fractional laser rejuvenation
Fractional non-ablative laser rejuvenation
In the photo on the right, you can see the result after fractional laser rejuvenation of the non-ablative type.
Typically, the method is used to rejuvenate the neck, face, eyelids, as well as remove stretch marks and traces of acne.
With this photothermolysis, the skin is not subjected to serious damage. Therefore, this method is used for lifting procedures and improving the condition of the skin in general.
Photothermolysis involves the use of an erbium laser, which penetrates the epidermis layer without damaging its integrity.
In addition, a thulium laser (1. 93 Nm) is often used. Thanks to the redistribution of melanin, it more effectively removes age spots and heals under-pigmented areas.
The result of the non-ablative photothermolysis technique is prolonged. For example, after four acne treatments, the skin condition improves within two years. If the purpose of photothermolysis is to remove stretch marks, then the result exceeds expectations: at the end of the course, not only the defect itself disappears, but also the local tissues gain elasticity.
After the procedure, the wrinkles diminish for another three months. However, side effects are only reported in 5% of cases.
Ablative route
The technique consists of using a CO2 laser whose rays, penetrating into certain layers of the dermis, form damaged areas there. During this process, in the superficial layers of the skin, proteins are folded and destroyed. Renewed collagen forms in the treated areas for three months after the procedure.
This method is used for deep wrinkles, scars, excessive pigmentation, scar tissue, and loose skin.
A CO2 laser has a long wavelength of radiation, due to which it is able to penetrate the deep layers of the dermis and remove large defects.
In addition, a shorter wavelength erbium laser is used. Its effect is superficial, but the result becomes visible sooner.
Unlike non-ablative thermolysis, patients often experience pain during and immediately after the ablative session. But at the same time, this method is more efficient and safer compared to conventional laser ablation.
CO2 rejuvenation
The photo shows a variation of the fractional laser rejuvenation procedure. It assumes the use of a CO2 laser with a wavelength of 10. 6 microns. The beam punctually eliminates cells with a defect inside the epidermis layer. Due to the radiation in the tissues, intense heating of the liquid occurs. With fractional laser rejuvenation using CO2, the evaporation of water causes structural degradation in certain areas, while the skin around them retains its integrity.
With this method, damaged areas are restored with living and active cells around.
DOT rejuvenation method
This method uses a carbon dioxide laser with a wavelength of 10. 6 μm. Falling into the layers of the epidermis, the beam selectively removes cells with defects. With the alternation of damaged and healthy areas, a specific mesh should form. As a result of the coagulation of the protein by the laser beam, unwanted cells are destroyed.
Benefits of fractional laser rejuvenation
This technology has been used in the field of cosmetology for over 10 years. It is effective, safe, and has a number of advantages over other anti-aging and curative therapies:
causes virtually no side effects;
is not invasive, so there is no possibility of client infection (including HIV);
is painless and comfortable enough;
allowed from 16 years old;
is hygienic because the tools do not come into contact with the skin;
suitable for atonic skin;
it is possible to select an individual treatment program;
is suitable for clients with any degree of skin pigmentation;
areas with defects are treated punctually, therefore the possibility of damage to healthy tissue around is excluded;
due to the fact that the skin is injured only 25%, the recovery period after the procedure is short (face - seven days, body - 14 days);
the effect becomes visible immediately after the first procedure;
the result obtained is saved for several years;
it is possible to manipulate delicate places;
Elastin production is dramatically accelerated in affected areas.
Indications for the rejuvenation procedure
Fractional Laser Rejuvenation can be used for:
general skin rejuvenation;
skin lift (face, neck, décolleté, arms);
smoothing scars and scars;
skin alignment;
restoration of the contour of the face oval;
wrinkle removal;
remove age spots and melasma;
remove stretch marks (stretch marks);
eliminating the consequences of acne.
Intense fractional laser exposure can cause hyperpigmentation of the skin for a short time.
To achieve a good result, after the procedure, the skin should be treated with sunscreen with a protection level of at least SPF 50.
Fractional resurfacing can be compared to solid resurfacing in its effect. Judging from the great foreign and domestic experience, this material technique is less traumatic and leads to a tremendous rejuvenating and tightening effect.
Fractional rejuvenation for the treatment of scars and stretch marks
This method of rejuvenation is particularly effective in the treatment of scar tissue. Fractional laser beams have the ability to crush coarse scar tissue, after which they gain elasticity, smoothness, and the tension of surrounding healthy tissue decreases.
Fractional photothermolysis helps reduce the area of scars, making them elastic, inconspicuous, as close to healthy skin as possible.
Fractional rejuvenation is indicated for the treatment of stretch marks. Unfortunately, stretch marks cannot be completely removed; you can only make them more invisible.
The effect of a split heal is:
decrease in stretch mark area;
reduction of tissue fiber breaks;
aligns stretch marks with a healthy complexion;
increasing the elasticity and firmness of the surrounding skin tissue and relieving tension.
Contraindications for such rejuvenation
Fractional rejuvenation, like any cosmetic procedure, is not shown to everyone. Therefore, in order to avoid negative consequences, it is necessary to carefully study all contraindications before the session.
Fractional photothermolysis is not recommended:
during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, since any change in the body of a pregnant or breastfeeding woman affects the baby - you must not endanger the health of the baby, it is better to postpone the procedure;
if there is an inflammatory process (or redness) in the treated area - the beautician will refuse to perform fractional laser photothermolysis in the cheeks if they are covered with an allergic rash (the laser beam can damageskin to deep scars);
for chemical peel - if you have cleansed your face you need to let the epidermis layers grow stronger for two weeks (minimum) and prepare for the laser beam;
in the presence of oncological diseases, since as a result of laser exposure, natural complications may occur;
for diagnosed diabetes mellitus;
in the presence of viral and bacterial infections - in order to avoid the invasion of foreign elements into the cell structure during fractional rejuvenation, you must first fully recover.
Preparation and progress of the procedure
In order to avoid disastrous consequences in the form of complications after cosmetic surgery, you need to prepare carefully for it.
First you need to see a beautician and get an assessment of the condition of the facial skin. The specialist will determine the list of contraindications and give the necessary recommendations.
Before the procedure, it is not advisable to visit the baths, sauna, solarium for 3-4 weeks. It is also forbidden to sunbathe in direct sunlight. Sunscreen should be applied to the face before going out.
It is very important to stop certain medications, especially antibiotics and blood thinners. Additionally, doctors recommend taking antiherpetics.
It is not recommended to perform manipulations that injure the skin tissue no later than two weeks in advance.
Fractional laser rejuvenation of the eyes and other areas takes place in several stages. First, the esthetician must prepare the skin areas for the procedure. To do this, it removes the remnants of decorative cosmetics from the skin, as well as dirt, dust, sweat. Then the surface is treated with an antiseptic.
The next step is to apply an anesthetic cream, which remains on the skin for about an hour.
After anesthesia, a contact gel is applied evenly to the face so that the sensor glides smoothly and evenly over the surface of the skin.
Then the tip is used to treat the skin tissue in straight lines in several directions. The device is equipped with accessories of different sizes. Typically 2 cm² of leather is processed in one pass.
At the end of the procedure, the specialist should remove the remaining contact gel and apply a soothing cream.
Number of sessions
After fractional laser rejuvenation of eyelids and other problem areas, rehabilitation is required for 3-7 days. The duration of the rehabilitation period will depend on the lifestyle of the patient. For example, bad habits, poor diet, excessive physical activity, stress and sleep disturbances can significantly slow down skin regeneration after the procedure.
During the first three days after the session, redness and slight swelling may appear on the skin. Pain relievers and skin cooling products can be used to reduce discomfort.
It is considered normal if, during the first week, the skin seems to tighten and peel in some places. Side effects include a bronze complexion which disappears after 14 days.
Long-lasting results can be obtained with two to five procedures. Specifically, the cosmetologist can tell how many sessions are needed, depending on each individual case and the client's initial data.
The interval between sessions should be at least 3-4 weeks. Fractional laser rejuvenation slows down aging: wrinkles diminish or disappear completely, turgor increases, pores shrink, and the complexion is evened out. This method effectively removes pigmentation, acne, stretch marks and scars.
Possible side effects
Complications after fractional laser rejuvenation are extremely rare. Most often, negative consequences are noted due to the unprofessional actions of a cosmetologist who neglects the treatment instructions. Sometimes side effects appear due to the client's failure to follow skin care recommendations.
Most likely complications:
pronounced hyperemia of the skin, self-limiting after three days;
pockets;
dark skin tone;
excessive dryness and peeling of the skin;
burns;
scars and scars;
white or yellow milia rising above the surface (dense nodules that form under the skin);
inflammatory processes in damaged areas;
the phenomenon of hyperpigmentation (may appear following exposure to the sun).
Complications after fractional laser rejuvenation will not appear if you prepare well before the procedure, choose a reliable clinic and an experienced professional.
7 tips for post-processing
To quickly restore the skin, you must respect the following recommendations:
Within 7-10 days, try not to overheat the treated areas. You cannot go to the public baths, to the sauna. Visiting the solarium for 1. 5 months is not recommended.
Products prescribed by the beautician should be applied to the skin.
If the body has been treated, wear compression garments.
Treat the skin with moisturizers at least 2-3 times a day.
Take a mask regeneration course containing a tissue regeneration stimulant.
Spawned scabs cannot be removed.
It is forbidden to peel, use scrubs, aggressive cleaners.
Fractional Laser Rejuvenation Price
The price of fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation will depend on the area of the treatment areas, the depth of penetration of the rays. Some cosmetic clinics offer their customers rates, which indicate the cost of treatment of 1 cm².
The cost depends on the number of sessions performed.
The best result can be obtained if the treatment is carried out in the course of calculated courses by a professional beautician.
Frequently asked questions about fractional laser rejuvenation
Minimum age allowed for laser facial rejuvenation
There are hardly any restrictions. Treatments can be done as young as 17 to get rid of acne scars.
For women over 40 who want to preserve their youth and attractiveness, the technique is particularly useful, as the laser beams cause the skin cells to produce collagen.
The recovery period after fractional laser rejuvenation is usually 7-14 days. The duration of rehabilitation depends on the complexity of the problem and the type of laser exposure.
When can I start
It depends on the type of laser treatment used, the problem area, the experience and skill of the cosmetologist. The recovery period, depending on the method and the complexity of the defects, ranges from two days to three weeks. It happens that the patient can start working already a day after the session.
How long does it take to see the result
It takes about six months for the skin to completely renew and become visible. The result lasts about five years.
Fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation refers to highly effective cosmetic procedures. It has many advantages over similar anti-aging treatments. But you should know that this procedure is not suitable for everyone and has contraindications. Therefore, first you need to consult a specialist. And to reduce the risk of complications, you should only choose reliable and proven clinics.