Fractional laser rejuvenation is a know-how in cosmetology. The procedure appeared recently, but it has already proved positive. It is used by everyone who wants to rejuvenate the skin of the face, neck, hands. It has many indications and few contraindications.
This type of rejuvenation allows to soften the skin, remove scars and scars and even out the tone. The procedure lasts a few minutes and the effect lasts up to five years. Isn't that what many women dream of - visiting a beauty salon and looking 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 most recent modern developments in the field of cosmetology is the fractional laser rejuvenation technique. Currently, it is not without reason that it can be considered the most popular of all laser therapy procedures.
During the session, the laser beam, passed through a special fractional grid, divides into a large number of microwires. This method provides a (fractional) dot effect on the skin without completely destroying it.
In the dermis layer, many of the smallest areas of scarring are formed, where the development of young, renewed skin tissue occurs very quickly. The cells around the affected areas begin to divide intensely, filling 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 the cutaneous tissue, help to eliminate pigmentation, wrinkles and scars.
Fractional laser rejuvenation of the facial skin helps 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 are smoothed, wrinkles and scars are significantly smoothed.
4 types of fractional laser rejuvenation
Non-ablative fractional laser rejuvenation
In the photo on the right you can see the result after the non-ablative fractional laser rejuvenation.
As a rule, the method is used to rejuvenate the neck, face, eyelids, in addition to removing stretch marks, traces of acne.
With this photothermolysis, the skin is not subject to serious damage. Therefore, this method is used for lifting procedures and improving the skin condition 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 removes age spots more effectively and heals areas with insufficient pigmentation.
The result of the non-ablative photothermolysis technique is prolonged. For example, after four treatments for acne, there is an improvement in the condition of the skin in two years. If the aim of photothermolysis is to eliminate stretch marks, the result exceeds expectations: at the end of the course, not only does the defect itself disappear, but local tissues also gain elasticity.
After the procedure, the wrinkles diminish for another three months. However, side effects are reported in only 5% of cases.
Ablative form
The technique involves the use of a CO2 laser, whose rays, penetrating certain layers of the dermis, form damage zones. During this process, in the superficial layers of the skin, proteins are folded and destroyed. Renewed collagen is formed 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, thanks to which it is able to penetrate deep layers of the dermis and eliminate significant defects.
In addition, a shorter wavelength erbium laser is used. Its effect is superficial, but the result is visible before.
Unlike non-ablative thermolysis, patients often experience pain during and immediately after the ablative session. But at the same time, this method is more effective and safer when compared to classic 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 defective cells within the epidermis layer. As a result of radiation to the tissues, intense heating of the liquid occurs. With CO2 fractional laser rejuvenation, water evaporation causes the breakdown of the structure of some areas, while the skin around it maintains its integrity.
With this method, damaged areas are restored thanks to the 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 eliminates the defective cells. With the alternation of damaged and healthy areas, a specific mesh must be formed. As a result of protein coagulation 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 benefits when compared to other anti-aging and healing therapies:
has almost no side effects;
is non-invasive, so there is no possibility of infection from the client (including HIV);
is painless and comfortable enough;
allowed from 16 years;
is hygienic, as the tools do not come into contact with the skin;
is suitable for atonic skin types;
it is possible to select an individual treatment program;
serves customers with any degree of skin pigmentation;
areas with defects are processed on time, so the possibility of damage to healthy surrounding tissue is excluded;
due to the fact that the skin is damaged by 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 handle delicate places;
elastin production is significantly accelerated in the affected areas.
Indications for the rejuvenation procedure
Fractional laser rejuvenation can be used for:
general skin rejuvenation;
skin lifting (face, neck, neckline, arms);
scars and scar smoothing;
skin alignment;
restoring the face oval outline;
wrinkle removal;
remove age spots and melasma;
remove streaks (streaks);
elimination of the consequences of acne.
Intense exposure to fractional laser can cause hyperpigmentation of the skin for a short period of time.
To obtain 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 by the great foreign and domestic experience, this hardware technique is less traumatic and leads to a tremendous rejuvenating and tightening effect.
Fractional rejuvenation for the treatment of scars and stretch marks
This rejuvenation method is especially effective in treating scars. Fractional laser beams have the ability to crush thick scar tissue, after which it acquires elasticity, softness and the tension of the surrounding healthy tissue decreases.
Fractional photothermolysis helps to reduce the area of scars, making them elastic, discreet, as close as possible to healthy skin.
Fractional rejuvenation is indicated for the treatment of stretch marks. Unfortunately, stretch marks cannot be completely eliminated; you can only make them more invisible.
The effect of a fractional cure is:
decreasing the area of stretch marks;
reducing fabric fiber breaks;
aligns stretch marks with a healthy skin tone;
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, to avoid negative consequences, it is necessary to carefully study all contraindications before the session.
Fractional photothermolysis is not recommended:
during pregnancy and during breastfeeding, as any change that occurs in the body of the pregnant or lactating woman affects the baby - you should not risk the baby's health, it is better to postpone the procedure;
in case of inflammation (or redness) in the treated area - the cosmetologist will refuse to perform fractional laser photothermolysis on the cheeks if they are covered by an allergic rash (the laser beam can damage the skin until deep scars);
for chemical peeling - if you have cleaned your face, you need to allow the layers of the epidermis to become stronger in two weeks (minimum) and prepare for the laser beam;
in the presence of oncological diseases, because as a result of laser exposure natural complications can occur;
for diagnosed diabetes mellitus;
in the presence of viral and bacterial infections - to prevent invasion of foreign elements into the cell structure during fractional rejuvenation, you must first fully recover.
Preparation and flow of procedure
To avoid disastrous consequences in the form of complications after a cosmetic procedure, you must prepare carefully.
First, you need to consult a beautician and make an assessment of the condition of the skin on your face. The specialist will determine the list of contraindications and give the necessary recommendations.
Before the procedure, it is not advisable to go to the spa, sauna, solarium for 3-4 weeks. It is also prohibited to sunbathe in the sun. The sunscreen must be applied to the face before leaving.
It is very important to stop some medications, in particular antibiotics and anticoagulants. In addition, doctors recommend taking anti-herpetic drugs.
It is not recommended to carry out manipulations that damage the skin tissue at least two weeks in advance.
Fractional rejuvenation of the eyes and other laser areas occurs in several stages. First, the beautician must prepare the skin areas for the procedure. To do this, it removes the remains of decorative cosmetics from the skin, as well as dirt, dust, sweat. The surface is then 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 slides evenly and evenly over the skin surface.
The tip is then used to treat the skin tissue in straight lines in several directions. The device is equipped with accessories of different sizes. As a rule, 2 cm² of leather is processed in one pass.
At the end of the procedure, the specialist should remove the rest of the contact gel and apply a soothing cream.
Number of sessions
After fractional laser rejuvenation of the eyelids and other problem areas, rehabilitation is necessary for 3–7 days. The length of the rehabilitation period will depend on the patient's lifestyle. For example, bad habits, poor nutrition, excessive physical activity, stress and disturbed sleep can significantly delay skin regeneration after the procedure.
During the first three days after the session, redness and a slight swelling of the skin may appear. Painkillers and skin cooling products can be used to reduce discomfort.
It is considered normal if during the first week the skin appears stretched and peels in some places. Side effects include tanned skin that disappears after 14 days.
Long-lasting results can be achieved with two to five procedures. Specifically, the cosmetologist can tell you how many sessions are required, 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 aging: wrinkles diminish or disappear entirely, turgor increases, pores narrow and the complexion is even. This method effectively removes pigmentation, acne, stretch marks and scars.
Possible side effects
Complications after fractional laser rejuvenation are extremely rare. Most of the time, negative consequences are observed due to the unprofessional actions of a cosmetologist who neglects processing instructions. Sometimes side effects appear due to the client's failure to follow skin care recommendations.
Most likely complications:
marked hyperemia of the skin, self-limited after three days;
swelling;
dark skin tone;
excessive dryness and flaking 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 as a result of exposure to sunlight).
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-treatment
To quickly restore the skin, you must follow the following recommendations:
Within 7 to 10 days, try not to overheat the treated areas. You cannot go to the spa, sauna. It is not recommended to visit the solarium for 1. 5 months.
The products prescribed by the beautician must be applied to the skin.
If the body has been treated, wear compression clothing.
Treat your skin with moisturizers at least 2 to 3 times a day.
Take a course in regeneration masks containing a tissue regeneration stimulant.
The scabs that appear cannot be removed.
It is forbidden to peel, use exfoliants, aggressive cleansers.
Fractional price of laser rejuvenation
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 beauty clinics offer their clients price lists, which indicate the cost of processing 1 cm².
The cost depends on the number of sessions held.
The best result can be achieved if the treatment is carried out in courses calculated by a professional beautician.
Frequently asked questions about fractional laser rejuvenation
Minimum age allowed for laser facial rejuvenation
There are practically no restrictions. Treatments can be carried out from the age of 17 to get rid of acne scars.
For women over 40 who want to maintain youth and attractiveness, the technique is especially useful, as laser rays cause the production of collagen by skin cells.
The recovery period after fractional laser rejuvenation is usually 7 to 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 area of the problem areas, the cosmetologist's experience and skill. The recovery period, based on the method and complexity of the defects, varies from two days to three weeks. It turns out that the patient can start working the 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 noticeable. The result lasts for 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 need to know that this procedure is not suitable for everyone and has contraindications. Therefore, you must first consult an expert. And to reduce the risk of complications, you should choose only reliable and proven clinics.