Fractional thermolysis (fraxel) is a method of laser "surfing" of the face and body, which helps to deal with age and stress skin problems.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical braces and after thermolysis skin cells begin to actively, as in youth, to produce collagen and elastin, ie beneficial changes occur in several layers at once, not just in the outer epidermis.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can be performed only in specialized clinics.
What is it - fractional photothermolysis, what is the essence of the method and effectiveness, indications and contraindications for facial and body procedures using fraxel technology, before and after photos, consequences and reviews of the laser procedure, approximate prices and what devices are used - all thiswe 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 put into use by cosmetologists.
And photothermolysis is also a process of thermolysis, but it is caused by exposure to light energy. In cosmetology it is used in photoepilation and laser "surfing" 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 (light) energy.
The essence of the procedure and other names
The fractional photothermolysis procedure is classified as a way to negatively stimulate the skin, as 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 restores the skin after damage.
Thermal burns of this type look like a "column" that forms in the thickness of the dermis under the directed action of laser beams. This "column" in cosmetology is called "microscopic treatment area" or MLZ for short.
In diameter they can not reach more than one tenth of a millimeter: from about 0, 1 to 0, 4 mm, with a penetration depth of 0, 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, from ten to several thousand such microtraumas can be located per square centimeter of the surface, with a speed of impact of 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 microdamages are applied mechanically with 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 nanoperforation;
Ablative and non-ablative method
Laser ablation is the evaporation of a substance using a laser pulse. When using ablative fractional photothermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation whose energy is absorbed mainly by water molecules.
In the case of short-term exposure to a localized area, the laser beam almost immediately heats the water contained in the tissues to 300C. As a result, the entire "column" evaporates and an open-type microscopic wound forms in its place, which is surrounded by layers of thermally coagulated cells.
After ablative photothermolysis, recovery will be much slower and longer than with the non-ablative method.
But the results of the procedure will be objectively better, and the effect of lifting will be clearer. It is best to use a course of 2 to 6 sessions. However, during such procedures, the patient is at some risk of infection of the tissues 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 in the "column", of course there are no open wounds. Lifting is not as obvious as in the first ablative method, as the products of cell breakdown are not removed during the procedure, which means that there is no effect of "tightening" 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 dermal layer, as there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indications, effect
Indications for the appointment of a procedure on Fraxel technology can be the following reasons:
- the need to stimulate withered and aged skin;
- treatment of pigmented / depigmented lesions;
- removal of scars, post-acne and small scars;
- the need to remove stretch marks.
Not suitable for removing keloid formations.
Advantages
How does this method differ from the classic laser polishing? In the traditional approach, the combustion affects a large area, and in the case of fractional exposure it has the character of localized and point.
There are spaces between the burns with intact skin and this makes photothermolysis less traumatic and speeds up the healing time.
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 even 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 makes it possible to avoid missing skin areas or overlap of one area over another.
Mechanism of action
During the preliminary consultation, the cosmetologist determines the goals that the client wants to achieve, identifies possible contraindications for the procedure, tells about the possible results and their compliance with the client's expectations.
The doctor will certainly determine the point about the risks and development of post-procedure 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 an appropriate method of pain relief, and the client should certainly report allergic reactions to drugs, 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 the operation, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Their weight can in no way depend on the model of the device 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.
The more the problem is ignored, the deeper the layers must be affected.
But usually as anesthetics are used ordinary creams with anesthetic effect, which are applied to work areas a maximum of 40 minutes before the session.
During the session, the beautician moves a nozzle on the surface, which emits a directed 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. After the completion of the fractional photothermolysis, a cream with a calming effect is applied on the "polished" surface.
In order to achieve the desired result, it is necessary to conduct a course of several procedures - from 3 to 10, depending on what type of exposure is chosen. You can have a session once a month.
Recommendations (training and rehabilitation)
A few days before the planned procedure, the patient should start taking a prophylactic course of antibiotics and antivirals. Of course, if there is objective evidence of this.
On the day of fractional photothermolysis, one should avoid alcohol and abstain from sports altogether.
After the non-ablative photothermolysis procedure, the recovery process lasts up to three days, after the type of ablation - at least one week.
If the "polishing" is based on ablation, then for a few more days the patient will have reddened skin, swelling, burning sensation and discomfort.
After consultation with a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local analgesics on the skin, available in spray form.
After at least three days, the color of the "polished" dermis may change slightly, for example, it may become pseudo tan, due to increased decomposition of pigment-containing residues of previously necrotic cells.
Dryness will appear, flaking will begin and a person may even feel itchy for a short time. All these manifestations are not dangerous and will pass on their own in about a week. Itching of itchy skin is strictly forbidden!
To pass the rehabilitation after fraxel without complications, you need to follow a few basic recommendations:
- you must take care of your skin and be sure to apply the recommended external products. In most cases, these are drugs that are prescribed to treat thermal burns and moisturizing sprays;
- the crust that forms on the surface when healing wounds should not be removed artificially, but only naturally falling;
- if before the procedure the patient was taking 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 a period of at least a month. Usually use sunscreen with SPF 40+;
- the use of scrubs and other mechanical skin cleansing methods 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 staphyloderma;
- erythema lasting more than three days;
- swelling on the surface of the treated skin lasting more than two days;
- hyperpigmentation in the post-inflammatory period;
- the appearance of burns from burns, erosive cracks;
- exacerbation of HSV1 or 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 stage;
- infectious diseases;
- chronic diseases in the manifestation stage;
- diabetes mellitus of any kind;
- defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system;
- disorders of the hematopoietic system, poor blood clotting;
- presence of autoimmune diseases;
- tendency to form deep scars of the keloid type;
- status epilepticus or convulsive syndrome;
- mental disorders;
- taking isotretinoin for six months;
- recent tan or visit 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 other procedure that may damage the skin.
Where and on what devices it is performed, approximate prices
The cost of one fraxel procedure depends on the treated area, so the estimated prices for fractional laser surfing vary.
Only qualified specialists can conduct photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetology hospital.
CO2 or erbium laser devices are used for the fraxel rejuvenation procedure itself. Ordinary 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. But anyway, laser-based procedures are among the most popular, effective and safe.
Reviews
We invite you to read some reviews about fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation:
- First examination: "I am 35 years old. I went to 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 enlarged, tightened, and the skin on my forehead and cheeks began to look much more even. I was pleased. The only thing that made me uncomfortable was the peeling that came after the second visit. But he 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 of this method, because I felt a positive result. After three procedures, I noticed that my face became lighter, the pigment spots on some parts of my face lightened, the scars began to stand out less noticeably and the skin tightened. These changes did not happen suddenly, but gradually. After about 4 months I started to look 5-6 years younger than my age. I advise everyone who takes care of themselves to try this wonderful thing.
- Third review: "I was very afraid of this type of procedure, believing that there are more side effects than benefits. However, when the first wrinkles appeared, the idea of "magical skin transformation" began to visit my head more and more often. So I decided to do a photothermolysis session. There were slightly painful but tolerable sensations in the process. After a while they were noticedhappy changes on the face: wrinkles around the eyes are smoothed, the complexion becomes lighter, the contour is 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 extremely pleased. There are many positive moments and they all affected my face: fine wrinkles and pigmentation have disappeared, the skin is not so relaxed, there is less inflammation and most importantly, I like myself much more. I want to advise everyone to love themselves, not to spare their beauty and to use effective procedures to maintain their youth.