Fractional thermolysis (fraxel) is a laser "resurfacing" method of the face and body, which helps to cope with age-related and stress-related skin problems.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical appliances, and after thermolysis, skin cells begin to actively produce collagen and elastin, as in youth, that is, beneficial changes occur in several layers at once, and not just in the outer epidermis.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can be done only in specialized clinics.
What is it - fractional photothermolysis, what is the essence of the method and effectiveness, indications and contraindications for face and body procedures using fraxel technology, before and after photos, consequences and reviews about the laser procedure, estimated prices and what devices are 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 then introduced into use by cosmetologists.
And photothermolysis is also the 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 focal destruction of tissues by heating them with the help of laser energy (light).
The essence of the procedure and other names
The fractional photothermolysis procedure is classified as a negative skin stimulation mode, since a certain type of injury is applied during the session, in this case burns.
To achieve the expected cosmetic result, it is necessary to start the regeneration process, which restores the skin after damage.
A thermal burn of this type appears as a "column", which forms in the thickness of the dermis under the targeted action of laser rays. This "column" in cosmetology is called "microscopic treatment zone" or abbreviated - MLZ.
In diameter they can reach no more than a tenth of a millimeter: from about 0, 1 to 0, 4 mm, with a depth of penetration up to 0, 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, ten to several thousand microtraumas can be located on a square centimeter of surface, while the impact speed is 3000 MLZ / sec.
If we analyze the mechanism of action of fractional photothermolysis, it is similar to mesoscooter therapy, but when using a roller, microdamages are applied mechanically using needles.
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 nano-perforation;
Ablative and non-ablative method
Laser ablation is the evaporation of a substance by means of a laser pulse. 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 a localized area, the laser beam heats the water contained in the tissues almost immediately, up to 300 ° C. Due to this, the entire "column" evaporates, and in its place a microscopic wound of the open type is formed, which is surrounded by layers of thermally coagulated cells.
After ablative photothermolysis, recovery 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 tissue infection in the deep dermal layers.
Non-ablative fractional thermolysis can be attributed to more gentle 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 inside the "column", of course there are no open wounds. The facelift is not as noticeable as with the first ablative method, as cell decay products were not removed at the time of the procedure, meaning there is no skin tightening effect.
It is recommended to use courses of 3 to 10 sessions. For the patient, there is practically no risk of infection of the deep dermal layer, since there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indications, effect
The indications for the appointment of a procedure using Fraxel technology may be the following reasons:
- the need to stimulate withered and aged skin;
- treatment of pigmented / depigmented lesions;
- get rid of scars, post-acne and small scars;
- the need to remove stretch marks.
Not suitable for eliminating keloid formations.
Benefits
How is this method different from the classic "polishing" with the laser? With the traditional approach the burn affects a large area, and with the fractional exposure it has the character of a point and localized.
Between burn injuries there are spaces with intact skin, and this makes photothermolysis less traumatic and accelerates healing times.
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 also work with the skin of the eyelids.
A feature of this optical thermolysis of the dermis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which avoids missing skin areas or the overlapping of one area on the other.
Mechanism of action
At the preliminary consultation, the cosmetologist determines the goals the client wants to achieve, discovers possible contraindications to the procedure, talks about the possible results and their compliance with the client's expectations.
The doctor will certainly establish a point about the risks and development of post-procedural complications, as well as how to care for the skin after undergoing a course of photothermolysis.
It is necessary to discuss in advance and choose the appropriate method of pain relief, and the client should definitely report any allergic reactions to the drugs.
A few hours before the session, a superficial peeling is carried out, the purpose of which is to uniform the thickness of the horny layer of the skin.
During the operation, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Their severity cannot in any way depend on the model of the apparatus 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, focusing on the therapeutic goals.
The more the problem is overlooked, the deeper layers must be affected.
But usually as an anesthetic, ordinary creams with an anesthetic effect are used, which are applied to the working areas a maximum of 40 minutes before the start of the session.
During the session, the cosmetologist moves a nozzle to 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 much skin is treated. At the end of the fractional photothermolysis, a soothing cream is applied to the "shiny" surface.
To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to conduct a course of several procedures, from 3 to 10, depending on the type of exposure chosen. You can do a session once a month.
Recommendations (training and rehabilitation)
A few days before the scheduled procedure, the patient should begin a prophylactic course of antibiotics and antiviral agents. Of course, if there is objective evidence for it.
On the day that fractional photothermolysis occurs, the person should avoid alcohol and completely refrain from playing sports.
After the non-ablative photothermolysis procedure, the recovery process lasts up to three days, after the type of ablation, at least a week.
If the "polishing" was based on ablation, the patient will have red skin, swelling, a burning sensation and discomfort for several days.
After consulting a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local analgesics to the skin, available in the form of a spray.
After at least three days have passed, the color of the "shiny" dermis may change slightly. For example, it can become pseudo-tanned, due to the 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 these manifestations are not dangerous and will pass on their own in about a week. It is strictly forbidden to scratch itchy skin!
In order for the rehabilitation after fraxel to take place without complications, it is necessary to follow some basic tips:
- it is necessary to take care of the skin and be sure to apply the recommended external products. In most cases these are drugs prescribed for the treatment of thermal burns and moisturizing sprays;
- the scab that forms on the surface with the healing of wounds does not have to be removed artificially, but only by natural fall;
- if before the procedure the patient took antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, its 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 a period of at least one month. He usually uses sunscreens with SPF 40+;
- the use of scrubs and other mechanical methods of skin cleansing is prohibited throughout the recovery period.
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 staphylooderma;
- 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, erosive cracks;
- exacerbation of HSV1 or acne;
- microscopic subcutaneous hemorrhages.
Contraindications (general and local)
Fractional photothermolysis is not performed with the following general contraindications:
- oncological tumors;
- the period of breastfeeding;
- HSV1 and HSV2 in the acute phase;
- infectious diseases;
- chronic diseases in the stage of manifestation;
- diabetes mellitus of any type;
- defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system;
- disturbances in the work of the organs of the hematopoietic system, poor blood clotting;
- the presence of autoimmune diseases;
- tendency to form deep keloid-type scars;
- status epilepticus or seizure syndrome;
- psychic deviations;
- taking isotretinoin for six months;
- a recent tan or a visit to the solarium.
And the following local contraindications:
- all inflammatory processes localized in the intended work area;
- impaired skin integrity;
- any neoplasms of unknown origin;
- dry cleaning of the skin or any other procedure that could injure the skin.
Where and on which devices it is carried out, approximate prices
The cost of a fraxel procedure depends on the area being treated, so the estimated prices for fractional laser resurfacing vary.
Only qualified specialists can conduct photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetology hospital.
For the fraxel rejuvenation procedure itself, devices with CO2 or an erbium laser are used. Normal beauty salons for the most part do not have the necessary equipment or trained staff.
The use of lasers for cosmetic purposes is still controversial. Be that as it may, procedures based on the action of a laser beam are among the most popular, effective and safe.
Reviews
We invite you to read some reviews on facial skin rejuvenation with fractional laser:
- First review: "I am 35 years old. I 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, usually slightly dilated, became stiff and skinned. of the forehead and cheeks was starting to look much more even. I was satisfied. The only thing that bothered me was the flaking that appeared after the second visit. But it disappeared without a trace after three days. Now I look at myself in the mirror and enjoy my own face. "
- Second review: "I want to tell you about my impression of this method, as I felt a positive result. After three procedures, I noticed that my face cleared up, the pigment spots on some parts of the face cleared, the scars got started to stand out less noticeably and the skin stiffened. These changes didn't happen all at once, but gradually. After about 4 months, I started looking 5-6 years younger than my age. who take care of themselves to experience this wonderful thing.
- Third review: "I was very afraid of this type of procedure, believing that there were more undesirable consequences than benefits. However, as the first wrinkles appeared, the idea of" magical skin transformation "began to visit me more and more often. head. So I decided to do a session of photothermolysis. In the process, there were slightly painful, but tolerable sensations. After some time, joyful changes on the face became visible: the wrinkles around the eyes faded, the complexion became clearer, the outline has tightened. In general, I liked the effect. I will use this procedure again if necessary.
- Fourth review: "I consider this method indispensable for any woman who wants to stay young and attractive. I discovered something new for myself and was immensely satisfied. There are many positive moments and all of them reflected on my face: fine wrinkles and pigmentation they are gone, the skin is not so flabby, there are fewer inflammations and, above all, I like myself a lot more. I want to advise everyone to love each other, not to save on their beauty and to use effective procedures to maintain their youth.