Fractional thermolysis (fraxel) is a method of laser "resurfacing" of the face and body, which helps treat skin problems related to age and stress.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical braces, and, after thermolysis, skin cells begin to actively, as in youth, produce collagen and elastin, that is, beneficial changes occur in several layers at once, and not only in the outer epidermis.
This procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. This 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, consequences and reviews of laser procedures, approximate prices and what devices to use - all this we will trytell you more.
general information
Thermolysis refers to the process of structural destruction of tissues under the influence of high temperatures. This concept was created and mediated by doctors, and then introduced for use by cosmetologists.
And photothermolysis is also a thermolysis process, 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 talk about the destruction of tissue foci 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, because a certain type of injury is applied during the session, in this case a burn.
To achieve the desired cosmetic result, you must start the regeneration process, which restores the skin after damage.
Thermal burns of this type look like "columns", which form in the thickness of the dermis under the action of a targeted laser beam. This "column" in cosmetology is called the "microscopic treatment zone", or for 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 such microtraumas can be found on one square centimeter of surface, while the impact rate is 3000 MLZ/sec.
If we analyze the mechanism of action of fractional photothermolysis, then it is similar to mesoscooter therapy, but when using a roller, microdamage is applied mechanically using a needle.
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 methods
Laser ablation is the evaporation of a substance using laser pulses. When using ablative fractional photothermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation, the energy of which is mostly absorbed by water molecules.
During a short-term impact on the local area, the laser beam immediately heats the water contained in the tissue, 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 a layer of thermally coagulated cells.
After ablative photothermolysis, recovery will be much slower and longer than with non-ablative methods.
But the result of the procedure will be objectively better, and the lifting effect will be more pronounced. It is best to use courses of 2 to 6 sessions. But during the procedure, the patient is exposed to a certain risk of tissue infection in the deep layers of the skin.
Non-ablative fractional thermolysis can be associated with more gentle microtrauma techniques. A laser beam is used, which practically does not damage the epidermis, a burn is formed under it.
The destroyed tissue does not evaporate, but remains in the "column", naturally, there are no open wounds. The removal is not as obvious as the first ablative method, because the products of cell decay are not removed at the time of the procedure, which means there is no "tightening" effect on 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 layers of the skin, since there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indication, effect
Indications for the appointment of procedures using Fraxel technology may be for the following reasons:
- the need to stimulate withered and aging skin;
- treatment of pigmented/depigmented lesions;
- removes scars, acne scars and small scars;
- the need to remove stretch marks.
Not suitable for removing keloid formations.
Profit
How is this method different from the classic "polishing" with a laser? With the traditional approach, the burn affects a large area, and with fractional exposure, it has a localized and point character.
Between the burns there are spaces with intact skin, and this makes photothermolysis less traumatic and speeds healing time.
This method is suitable for treating any part of the body, but in most cases it is used exclusively for the face. When using Fraxel technology, the beautician can work even with the skin on the eyelids.
The feature of this dermal optical thermolysis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which makes it possible to avoid missing areas of skin or overlapping one zone with another.
Mechanism of action
At the initial consultation, the cosmetologist determines the goals that the client wants to achieve, finds out possible contraindications to the procedure, talks about the possible results and their compliance with the client's expectations.
The doctor will definitely give points about the risks and development of post-procedure complications, as well as how to care for the skin after a course of photothermolysis.
It is important to discuss beforehand and choose an appropriate pain relief method, and the client should of course report an allergic reaction to the drug, if any.
A few hours before the session, a superficial peel is performed, the purpose of which is to even out the thickness of the stratum corneum of the skin.
During surgery, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Its severity in no way depends on the model of equipment 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, with a focus on therapeutic goals.
The more ignored the problem, the deeper layers need to be affected.
But usually, an ordinary cream with an anesthetic effect is used as an anesthetic, which is applied to the working area a maximum of 40 minutes before the start of the session.
During the session, the cosmetologist moves a nozzle over the surface, which emits a targeted laser beam. If such a need arises, then the same area is treated repeatedly in the same procedure.
The duration is from 15 minutes to 1 hour. It all depends on how much the skin is treated. After completing the fractional photothermolysis, a cream with a soothing effect is applied to the "polished" surface.
To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to carry out several procedures - from 3 to 10, depending on what type of exposure is selected. You can have a session once a month.
Recommendations (training and rehabilitation)
A few days before the scheduled procedure, the patient should start taking prophylactic antibiotics and antiviral agents. It's only natural that there is objective evidence for this.
On the day that fractional photothermolysis occurs, the person should avoid alcohol and completely refrain from engaging in any exercise.
After a non-ablative photothermolysis procedure, the recovery process lasts up to three days, after this type of ablation - at least a week.
If the "polishing" is based on ablation, then for a few more days the patient will experience skin redness, swelling, burning and discomfort.
After consulting a specialist, you can apply a cold compress or apply a local analgesic to the skin, available in the form of a spray.
After at least three days have passed, the color of the "polished" dermis may change slightly. For example, it may become pseudo-brown, due to increased decomposition of pigment-containing residues from previously necrotic cells.
Dryness will appear, peeling will begin and a person may even experience itching for a short time. All of these manifestations are harmless and will 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 go without complications, you need to follow some basic recommendations:
- You need to take care of the skin and be 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 as the wound heals should not be removed artificially, only fall off naturally;
- if before the procedure the patient used antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, then the course 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 at least a month. Usually use a sunscreen with an SPF of 40+;
- during the recovery period, it is forbidden to use scrubs and other mechanical skin cleaning methods.
Possible side effects and complications
Despite the fact that 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 that lasts more than three days;
- edema of the surface of the treated skin with a duration of more than two days;
- hyperpigmentation in the post-inflammatory period;
- the appearance of burning blisters, erosive cracks;
- HSV1 exacerbation or acne;
- microscopic bleeding under the skin.
Contraindications (general and local)
Fractional photothermolysis is not carried out with the following common contraindications:
- oncological tumors;
- breastfeeding period;
- HSV1 and HSV2 in the acute stage;
- infectious diseases;
- chronic disease at the stage of manifestation;
- diabetes mellitus 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;
- a tendency to form deep scars of the keloid type;
- status epilepticus or seizure syndrome;
- psychic deviation;
- taking isotretinoin for six months;
- recent tan or visit to the solarium.
And the following local contraindications:
- all inflammatory processes localized in the area of \u200b\u200bthe intended work;
- impaired skin integrity;
- any neoplasm of unknown origin;
- dry cleaning of the skin or other procedures that may injure the skin.
Where and on what devices, estimated prices
The cost of a single fraxel procedure depends on the area being treated, so estimated prices for fractional laser resurfacing vary.
Only qualified specialists can conduct photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetology hospital.
For the fraxel rejuvenation procedure itself, a device with CO2 or an erbium laser is used. Ordinary beauty salons for the most part do not have the necessary equipment or trained personnel.
The use of lasers for cosmetic purposes is still controversial. But in any case, procedures based on the action of a laser beam are the most popular, effective and safe.
Review
We invite you to read some reviews on fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation:
- First review: "I am 35 years old. Went for 2 sessions of fractional photothermolysis. The second visit took place 30 days after the first visit. As a result, I noticed that my pores, which are usually slightly enlarged, tightened, and the skin on my forehead and cheeks startedlooks more even. I am satisfied. The only thing that made me uncomfortable was the flaking that appeared after the second visit. But it disappeared without a trace after three days. Now I look in the mirror and enjoy my own face. "
- Second review: "I want to tell you about my impressions about this method, because I felt positive results. After three procedures, I noticed that my face brightened, pigment spots in some parts of the face brightened, scars startednot very noticeable, and the skin becomes firmer. The changes don't happen all at once, but gradually. After about 4 months, I started to look 5-6 years younger than my age. I advise all those who take care of themselves to try something new. this is amazing.
- Third review: "I am very afraid of these kinds of procedures, believing that there are more unintended consequences of them than pluses. However, when the first wrinkles appeared, the idea of "magic skin transformation" began to visit my head more and more often. So I decided todid a photothermolysis session. In the process, there were sensations that were slightly painful, but tolerable. After some time, pleasant changes on the face became visible: wrinkles around the eyes were smoothed, the skin became brighter, contours were tightened. In general, I liked the effect. I will use this procedure again if necessary.
- Fourth review: "I consider this method indispensable for every woman who wants to stay young and attractive. I discovered something new for myself and am very satisfied. There were many positive moments and they were all reflected on my face: fine wrinkles and pigmentation disappeared, skin is less flabby, inflammation is reduced, and most importantly, I like myself more. I would like to advise everyone to love themselves, not to save their beauty and use effective procedures to maintain your youth.