Fractional thermosetting (fraxel) is a method of laser "resurfacing" of the face and body, which helps to combat 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 childhood, produce collagen and elastin, that is, beneficial changes occur in several layers at once, andnot only in the external epidermis.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can only be done in specialized clinics.
What is - fractional photothermolysis, what is the essence of the method and effectiveness, indications and contraindications for human and body procedures using fraxel technology, before and after photos, effects and reviews of the laser procedure, estimated pricesand 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. Physicians created the concept and mediated it, and then cosmetologists introduced it.
And photothermolysis is also the process of thermalization, but it is caused by exposure to light energy. In Cosmetology, it is used during photoelectrication and laser "resurfacing" of scars and scars.
Fractional photothermolysis is a technique in which photothermolysis does not affect the entire surface of the skin, except 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 way to negatively stimulate the skin, since a certain type of injury is applied during the session, in this case burns.
To achieve the expected cosmetic result, you need to start the regeneration process, which will restore 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 the laser beams. This "pillar" in cosmetology, or abbreviated - MLZ, is called a "microscopic treatment zone".
In diameter, they can reach no more than one-tenth of a millimeter: from about 0. 1 to 0. 4 mm, with penetration depths up to 0. 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, one to several thousand such microtrauma can be located on one square centimeter of the surface, and 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 a cylinder is used, microdamages are applied mechanically using needles.
In the practice of cosmetology, the concept of fractional thermolysis has a number of commonly used synonyms:
- dermal optical heating;
- DOT Therapy;
- fractional laser "polishing";
- LAFT renewal;
- fractional laser nanoperforation;
Ablative and non-ablative method
Laser ablation is the evaporation of a substance using a laser pulse. When using ablative fractional photathermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation, whose energy is mainly absorbed by water molecules.
During a short-term impact on a local area, the laser beam heats the water contained in the tissues up to 300C almost instantly. Because of this, the entire "column" evaporates, and in its place an open-type microscopic wound is formed, which is surrounded by layers of thermal coagulation cells.
After ablative photothermolysis, recovery will be much slower and longer than with non-ablative method.
But the results of the procedure will be objectively better, and the lifting effect will be more pronounced. It is best to use a 2 to 6 session course. But during such procedures, the patient is exposed to a certain risk of tissue infection in the deep dermal layers.
Non-ablative fractional thermosetting can be attributed to finer microtrauma techniques. A laser beam, which practically does not damage the epidermis, uses a burnt form under it.
Destroyed tissues do not evaporate, but remain within the "pillar", naturally, there are no open wounds. The increase is not as obvious as the first ablative method, since products of cellular decay were not removed at the time of the procedure, which means that there is no "tightening" effect on the skin.
It is recommended to use courses from 3 to 10 sessions. For the patient, there is almost no risk of infection of the deep dermal layer, since there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indications, effect
Signs of devising a procedure using Fraxel technology may include the following reasons:
- the need to stimulate wilted skin and age;
- treatment of pigment / decontamination lesions;
- get rid of scars, post-acne and small scars;
- the need to remove stretch marks.
It is not suitable for getting rid of keloid formations.
Advantages
What is the difference between this method and the classic laser "polishing"? With the traditional approach, the burn affects a large area, and with fractional exposure, it has a local and point character.
Between the burnt lesions there are spaces with intact skin, so photothermolysis is less traumatic and speeds up healing time.
The method is suitable for treating any part of the body, but in most cases it is used specifically for the face. Using Fraxel technology, the beautician can even work with the skin on the eyelids.
A feature of this optical thermoforming of the dermis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which makes it possible to avoid missing skin areas or overlap of one zone.
Mechanism of action
At the preliminary consultation, the cosmetologist determines the goals the client wants to achieve, finds out possible contraindications to the procedure, talks about the possible outcomes and fulfills the client’s expectations.
The doctor will certainly prescribe a point about the risks and development of post-procedure complications, as well as how to care for the skin after a course of photathermolysis.
It is necessary to discuss in advance and select the appropriate method for pain relief, and the client must definitely report allergic reactions to medications, if any.
A few hours before the session, superficial peeling is performed, which aims to balance the thickness of the stratum corneum of the skin.
During the operation, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Its 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 therapeutic goals.
To the extent that the problem is neglected, the deeper layers need to be impacted.
However, normal creams with anesthetic effect are usually used as an anesthetics, which are applied to the work areas 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, 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 leather is being treated. Upon completion of fractional photathermolysis, a cream with a softening effect is applied to the "polished" surface.
To achieve the desired result, several procedures need to be performed - from 3 to 10, depending on the type of exposure chosen. You can have 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.
On the day that fractional photothermolysis occurs, one should avoid alcohol and refrain completely from any 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 "gloss" was based on ablation, then for several more days the patient will experience redness, swelling, burning sensation and discomfort.
After consulting a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local analgesics to the skin, which are available in spray form.
After at least three days, the color of the "glossy" dermis may change slightly. For example, tanning may become false, due to increased decomposition of residues containing pigment from previously necrotic cells.
Dryness will appear, peeling will begin and one may even experience some itching for a short time. All of these types are not dangerous and will go away on their own in a week. It is a complete ban on scratching itchy skin!
To recover after fraxel without complications, you need to follow some basic tips:
- you need 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 crust that forms on the surface as a healing wound should not be artificially removed, with only a natural fall;
- if before the procedure the patient took antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, then their 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 sunscreen with SPF 40+;
- during the recovery period, the use of scrub and other mechanical means to clean skin 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 for more than two days;
- hyperpigmentation in the post-inflammatory period;
- appearance of burn blisters, erosive cracks;
- HSV1 or worse acne;
- microscopic hemorrhages under the skin.
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 manifestation phase;
- diabetes mellitus of any kind;
- defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system;
- disturbance of organ function of the hematopoietic system, weak blood clotting;
- presence of autoimmune diseases;
- tendency to form deep keloid-type scars;
- status epilepticus or convex syndrome;
- psychological deviations;
- taking isotretinoin for six months;
- recent tan or a visit to the solarium.
And the following local contraindications:
- all local inflammatory processes in the proposed work area;
- weak skin integrity;
- any neoplasms of unknown origin;
- dry cleaning of the skin or any other procedure that may injure the skin.
Where and what devices are made, approximate prices
The cost of a single fraxel procedure depends on the treated area, so the estimated prices for fractional laser resurfacing vary.
Photothermolysis sessions can only be performed in a cosmetology hospital by qualified specialists.
For the fraxel renewal procedure itself, devices with CO2 or erbium lasers are used. Normal beauty salts do not have the necessary equipment or trained personnel for the most part.
The use of lasers for cosmetic purposes remains controversial. However, laser beam activation procedures are the most common, effective and safe.
Reviews
We invite you to read a few reviews about fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation:
- First review: "I am 35 years old. I went for 2 fractional photathermolysis sessions. The second visit took place 30 days after the first visit. As a result, I noticed that my pores were normalslightly enlarged, tightened, and the skin on my forehead and cheeks began to look much flatter. I was happy. The only thing that made me uncomfortable was the peeling that came to light after the second visit. ButHe disappeared without a trace after three days. Now I'm in the mirror and enjoying my face. "
- Second review: "I want to tell you about my understanding of this method, because I felt a positive result. After three procedures, I noticed that my face is brightened, the pigment spots on some parts of theface brightened, the scars began to stand out less noticeably, and the skin tightened. All these changes did not happen at once, but gradually. After about 4 months, I started to look 5-6years younger than my age. I recommend to all who take care of themselves to try this wonderful thing.
- Third review: "I was very scared of such procedures, believing that they have more undesirable consequences than benefits. However, when the first wrinkles appeared, the idea began" skin transformationmagic "visiting my head more and more often. So I decided to have a photathermolysis session. In the process, it felt a little painful, but tolerable. After some time, joyful changes appeared on the face: wrinklesaround the eyes smoothed out, the complexion became lighter, the contour tightened. In general, I liked the effect. I will use this procedure again if necessary.
- Fourth review: "I think this method is absolutely essential for any woman who wants to stay young and attractive. I discovered something new for myself and was very happy. There are many positive moments and it was reflectedall on my face: smooth wrinkles and pigmentation are gone, the skin is less flabby, there is less inflammation, and more importantly, I like myself a lot more. I want to advise everyonelove themselves, not save their beauty and use effective procedures to maintain your youth.