Fractional laser rejuvenation is a know-how in cosmetology. The procedure appeared quite recently, but has already proven itself on the positive side. It is used by everyone who wants to rejuvenate the skin of the face, neck, hands. She has many indications and few contraindications.
This type of rejuvenation allows you to smooth the skin, remove scars and scars, and even out the tone. The procedure takes a few minutes, and the effect lasts up to five years. Isn't that what many women dream about - to visit a salon and stay 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 the field of cosmetology is the technique of fractional laser rejuvenation. Currently, it is not without reason can be called the most popular of all laser therapy procedures.
During the session, the laser beam, passed through a special fractional grating, breaks up into a large number of microbeams. This method provides a point (fractional) effect on the skin without completely destroying it.
In the dermis layer, a lot of the smallest healing areas are formed, where the development of the renewed young skin tissue occurs very quickly. The cells around the affected areas begin to divide intensively, filling the damaged areas. As a result, rejuvenating processes are stimulated in the deep layers of the dermis. Micro-rays, acting on the middle and upper layers of the skin tissue, help to eliminate pigmentation, wrinkles and scars.
Fractional laser rejuvenation of the facial skin helps it gain firmness and elasticity. In addition, thanks to the procedure, 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
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.
As a rule, the method is used to rejuvenate the neck, face, eyelids, as well as to remove stretch marks and traces of acne.
With this photothermolysis, the skin is not subject to severe 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 underpigmented areas.
The result of the non-ablative photothermolysis technique is prolonged. For example, after four treatments for acne, there is an improvement in skin condition within two years. If the purpose of photothermolysis is to eliminate stretch marks, then the result exceeds expectations: at the end of the course, not only the defect itself disappears, but also local tissues gain elasticity.
After the procedure, wrinkles decrease for another three months. However, side effects are only reported in 5% of cases.
Ablative way
The technique involves the use of a CO2 laser, the rays of which, penetrating into certain layers of the dermis, form damage zones there. During this process, in the surface 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 into the deep layers of the dermis and eliminate significant defects.
In addition, a shorter wavelength erbium laser is used. Its effect is shallow, but the result becomes visible sooner.
Unlike non-ablative thermolysis, patients often feel pain during and immediately after the ablative session. But at the same time, this method is more effective and safer when compared with classical 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 layer of the epidermis. As a result of radiation in the tissues, an intense heating of the liquid occurs. With fractional laser rejuvenation using CO2, evaporating water provokes the breakdown of the structure of some zones, while the skin around them maintains its integrity.
With this method, damaged areas are restored thanks to 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 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 benefits when compared to other anti-aging and healing therapies:
causes almost no side effects;
is non-invasive, so there is no possibility of client infection (including HIV);
is painless and comfortable enough;
allowed from 16 years old;
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;
suits clients with any degree of skin pigmentation;
areas with defects are processed pointwise, therefore, the possibility of damage to healthy tissue around is excluded;
due to the fact that the skin is injured 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, décolleté, arms);
scars and scars smoothing;
skin alignment;
restoring the contour of the face oval;
wrinkle removal;
remove age spots and melasma;
remove stretch marks (stretch marks);
elimination of the consequences of acne.
Intense fractional laser exposure may cause skin hyperpigmentation for a short time.
To get a good result, after the procedure, the skin should be treated with sunscreen cosmetics with a protection level of at least SPF 50.
Fractional resurfacing can be compared to solid resurfacing in its effect. Judging by the large 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 scar tissue. Fractional laser beams have the ability to crush coarse 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, unobtrusive, as close as possible in appearance to healthy skin.
Fractional rejuvenation is indicated for the treatment of stretch marks. Sadly, stretch marks cannot be completely eliminated; you can only make them more invisible.
The effect of a fractional heal is:
decreasing the stretch marks area;
reducing tissue fiber breaks;
aligns stretch marks with healthy skin tone;
increasing the elasticity and firmness of the skin tissue around and relieving tension.
Contraindications of 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 during breastfeeding, since any changes that occur in the body of a pregnant or lactating woman affect 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 carry out fractional laser photothermolysis in the cheeks if they are covered with an allergic rash (the laser beam can damage the skin up to deep scars);
for chemical peeling - if you cleaned your face, you need to allow the layers of the epidermis to get stronger within 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 flow of procedure
In order to avoid disastrous consequences in the form of complications after a cosmetic procedure, you must carefully prepare for it.
First, you need to consult with a beautician and get an assessment of the condition of the skin on the face. The specialist will determine the list of contraindications and give the necessary recommendations.
Before the procedure, it is not advisable to visit the bathhouse, sauna, solarium for 3-4 weeks. It is also prohibited to sunbathe in the open sun. Sunscreen should be applied to the face before going outside.
It is very important to stop certain medications, in particular antibiotics and blood thinners. In addition, doctors recommend taking antiherpetic drugs.
It is not recommended to perform manipulations that injure the skin tissue not later than two weeks in advance.
Fractional laser rejuvenation of eyes and other areas takes place in several stages. First, the beautician must prepare the skin areas for the procedure. To do this, he 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 is left on the skin for about an hour.
After anesthesia, a contact gel is evenly applied to the face so that the sensor glides smoothly and evenly over the skin surface.
Then the tip is used to treat the skin tissue in straight lines in several directions. The device is equipped with attachments 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 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 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 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 may be used to reduce discomfort.
It is considered normal if during the first week the skin seems to be tightened and peels off in some places. Side effects include a bronze complexion that disappears after 14 days.
Long-lasting results can be achieved with two to five procedures. Specifically, the cosmetologist can say 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 decrease or disappear altogether, turgor increases, pores narrow, 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 processing instructions. Sometimes side effects appear due to the client's failure to follow the recommendations for skin care.
Most likely complications:
pronounced hyperemia of the skin, self-limiting after three days;
puffiness;
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 the 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
In order to quickly restore the skin, you must adhere to the following recommendations:
Within 7-10 days, try not to overheat the treated areas. You cannot go to the bathhouse, sauna. It is not recommended to visit the solarium for 1. 5 months.
The 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 course of regenerating masks containing a tissue regeneration stimulant.
Appeared crusts cannot be removed.
It is forbidden to make peels, use scrubs, aggressive cleansers.
Fractional laser rejuvenation price
The price for 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 price lists, which indicate the cost of processing 1 cm².
Cost depends on the number of sessions performed.
The best result can be achieved if 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 performed as early as 17 years old to get rid of acne scars.
For women over 40, who want to maintain youth and attractiveness, the technique is especially useful, since laser beams provoke the production of collagen by skin cells.
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 get started
It depends on what type of laser treatment was used, on the area of problem areas, on the experience and skills of the cosmetologist. The recovery period, based 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 itself and become noticeable. The result lasts for about five years.
Fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation refers to highly effective cosmetic procedures. It has a lot of 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 with a specialist. And to reduce the risk of complications, you should choose only reliable and proven clinics.