Fractional thermolysis (fraxel) is a laser "resurfacing" method of the face and body and helps to cope with age-related and stressful skin problems.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical braces, and after thermolysis, skin cells begin to actively produce collagen and elastin, as in youth, that is, beneficial changes occur not only in the outer epidermis, but also in several layers at once.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can only be done 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, results and reviews of the laser procedure, estimated prices and what devices were used - all this we will try to tell you more .
general information
Thermolysis refers to the process of structural destruction of tissue under the influence of high temperatures. The concept was created and mediated by doctors and later made available by cosmetologists.
Photothermolysis is also the process of thermolysis, but it results from exposure to light energy. In cosmetology, it is used during photoepilation and laser "resurfacing" of scars and scars.
Fractional photothermolysis is a technique where photothermolysis does not affect the entire surface of the skin, but only individual areas. This means that we can talk about focal destruction of tissues by heating them with the help of laser (light) energy.
The essence of the procedure and other names
The fractional photothermolysis procedure is classified as a means of negative stimulation of the skin in this case, since a certain type of injury is applied during the session.
To achieve the expected cosmetic result, you need to start the regeneration process, which restores the skin after damage.
This type of thermal burn looks like a "column" formed in the thickness of the dermis under the targeted action of laser beams. This "column" in cosmetology is called the "microscopic treatment zone" or abbreviated - MLZ.
In diameter, they can reach no more than a tenth of a millimeter: about 0. 1 to 0. 4 mm, with a penetration depth of up to 0. 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, tens to several thousand such microtraumas can be located per square centimeter of the surface, with an impact rate of 3000 MLZ/s.
If we analyze the mechanism of action of fractional photothermolysis, then it is similar to mesoscooter therapy, but when using a roller, microdamages are applied mechanically using needles.
In the practice of cosmetology, the concept of fractional thermolysis has several widely used synonyms:
- dermal optical thermolysis;
- DOT therapy;
- fractional laser "polishing";
- LAFT rejuvenation;
- fractional laser nanoperforation;
Ablative and non-ablative method
Laser ablation is the vaporization of a substance using a laser pulse. When using ablative fractional photothermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation whose energy is mostly absorbed by water molecules.
During a short-term exposure to a localized area, the laser beam heats up the water contained in the tissues to almost 300C. Therefore, the entire "column" evaporates, and in its place an open microscopic wound is formed, surrounded by layers of thermally coagulated cells.
Recovery after ablative photothermolysis 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 best to use a course of 2 to 6 sessions. But during such procedures the patient is exposed to a certain risk of infection of the tissues in the deep dermal layers.
Non-ablative fractional thermolysis can be attributed to gentler microtrauma techniques. A laser beam is used, which practically does not damage the epidermis, burns are formed under it.
The destroyed tissues do not evaporate, but remain in the "column", naturally there are no open wounds. The removal is not as pronounced as in the first ablative method, because the products of cellular degradation are not removed during the procedure, which means that there is no "tightening" effect of the skin.
It is recommended to use courses from 3 to 10 sessions. For the patient, the risk of infection of the deep dermal layer is practically absent, since there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indications, effect
Indications for the appointment of a procedure using Fraxel technology can be the following reasons:
- the need to stimulate withered and aged skin;
- treatment of pigmented/depigmented lesions;
- getting rid of scars, post-acne and minor scars;
- the need to remove stretch marks.
It is not suitable for getting rid of keloid formations.
Advantages
How does this method differ from conventional "polishing" with a laser? In the traditional approach, while the burn affects a large area, it has a localized and point character with fractional exposure.
There are spaces with intact skin between the burn lesions, which makes photothermolysis less traumatic and speeds up the 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 even work with the skin on the eyelids.
A feature of this optical thermolysis of the dermis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which makes it possible to avoid the disappearance of skin areas or the overlap of one area with another.
movement mechanism
At the preliminary consultation, the beautician sets the goals that the client wants to achieve, finds possible contraindications to the procedure, talks about the possible results and compliance with the client's expectations.
The doctor will certainly make a point about how to care for the skin after a photothermolysis process, along with the risks and development of post-procedure complications.
It is necessary to discuss and choose the appropriate method for pain relief in advance, and the patient must report any allergic reactions to drugs, if any.
A few hours before the session, superficial peeling is performed, the purpose of which is to equalize 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 apparatus used. The level of pain depends on the depth and intensity of the laser beam, and these parameters are determined by the specialist himself, focusing on therapeutic goals.
The more neglected the problem, the deeper layers must be affected.
However, ordinary creams with anesthetic effect, which are applied to the working areas at most 40 minutes before the start of the session, are generally used as anesthetics.
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 within the same procedure.
The duration is from 15 minutes to 1 hour. It all depends on how deep it is 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 conduct a course of several procedures, from 3 to 10, depending on what type of exposure is chosen. You can do one session per month.
Recommendations (education and rehabilitation)
A few days before the planned procedure, the patient should start taking a prophylactic course of antibiotics and antiviral agents. Naturally, if there is objective evidence for this.
On the day of fractional photothermolysis, the person should abstain from alcohol and completely avoid doing any sports.
After the non-ablative photothermolysis procedure, the healing process takes up to three days, after the ablation type - at least a week.
If the "buffing" is based on ablation, the patient will have skin redness, swelling, burning sensation and discomfort for a few more days.
After consulting a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local analgesics in the form of sprays to the skin.
After at least three days, the color of the "polished" dermis may change slightly. For example, it may become pseudotanned due to increased decomposition of pigment-containing residues from formerly necrotic cells.
Dryness will appear, peeling will begin, and the person may even feel a little itchy for a short time. All these symptoms are not dangerous and go away on their own in about a week. It is strictly forbidden to scratch the itchy skin!
In order for rehabilitation after Fraxel to continue without complications, you need to follow a few basic recommendations:
- you need to take care of your skin and make sure you apply the recommended external products. In most cases, these are drugs prescribed for the treatment of thermal burns and moisturizing sprays;
- While the wound is healing, the crust formed on the surface should not be removed artificially, only natural shedding;
- if before the procedure the patient took antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, then the courses should be continued according to the instructions;
- It is necessary to isolate the treated skin from direct sunlight for at least one month in order to avoid hyperpigmentation. Usually use sunscreens with SPF 40+;
- During the recovery period, the use of scrubbing and other mechanical skin cleansing methods is prohibited.
Possible side effects and complications
Although fractional photothermolysis is one of the most modern and safe 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, abrasive cracks;
- HSV1 or acne flare-up;
- microscopic hemorrhages under the skin.
Contraindications (general and local)
Fractional photothermolysis is not performed with the following general contraindications:
- oncological tumors;
- breastfeeding period;
- HSV1 and HSV2 in the acute stage;
- infectious diseases;
- chronic diseases in the stage of manifestation;
- diabetes of any type;
- defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system;
- disorders in the work of the organs of the hematopoietic system, poor blood coagulation;
- the presence of autoimmune diseases;
- tendency to form deep scars of the keloid type;
- status epilepticus or convulsive syndrome;
- spiritual deviations;
- taking isotretinoin for six months;
- recent tanning or solarium visit.
And the following local contraindications:
- all inflammatory processes localized in the intended working area;
- impaired integrity of the skin;
- any unknown neoplasm;
- dry cleaning of the skin or other procedures that may damage the skin.
Where and on what devices it is done, approximate prices
The cost of a fractional procedure depends on the area being treated, so estimated prices for fractional laser resurfacing will vary.
Only qualified specialists can conduct photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetic hospital.
For the Fraxel rejuvenation procedure itself, devices with CO2 or erbium lasers are used. Ordinary beauty salons often do not have the necessary equipment or trained staff.
The use of lasers for cosmetic purposes is still controversial. However, procedures based on the action of the laser beam are among the most popular, effective and safe.
reviews
We invite you to read a few reviews about fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation:
- Initial review: "I'm 35. Went for 2 sessions of fractional photothermolysis. The second visit was 30 days after the first visit. As a result, I noticed that my pores, which are usually slightly enlarged, were tightened and the skin on my forehead and cheeks began to look much more even. The only thing that gave me was the peeling that appeared after the second visit. But after three days it disappeared without a trace. Now I look in the mirror and enjoy my own face. "
- Second review: "As I felt a positive result, I would like to tell you my impression of this method. After three procedures, I noticed that my face was brightened, the pigment spots in some areas of the face became brighter, the scars began to become less pronounced and the skin tightened. These changes are not all at once, but gradually. After about 4 months, I started to look 5-6 years younger than my age. I recommend anyone who takes care of themselves to try this amazing thing.
- Third review: "I was so afraid of such procedures, I believed that there were more undesirable consequences from them than pluses. But when the first wrinkles appeared, the idea of \u200b\u200b"magical skin transformation" began to haunt me more often. So I decided to do a photothermolysis session. In the process, there were some painful, but tolerable sensations. After a while, joyful changes on the face became visible: wrinkles around the eyes softened, the complexion became lighter, the contour tightened. In general, I liked the effect. If necessary, I will use this procedure again.
- Fourth review: "I find this method indispensable for every woman who wants to stay young and attractive. I discovered something new for myself and I am extremely satisfied. There are many positive moments and they are all reflected on my face: fine wrinkles and pigmentation are gone, the skin is not too loose, there is less inflammation, and most importantly, I like myself more. I want to advise everyone to love themselves, not to save on beauty and use effective procedures to preserve their youth.