Fractional Thermolysis (Fraxel) is a laser "resurfacing" method for the face and body that helps manage age-related and stress-related skin problems.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical braces, 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 only in the outer epidermis.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can only be performed 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 the laser procedure, estimated prices and what are devices? used - all this we will try to tell you more.
General information
Thermolysis refers to the process of structural destruction of tissues under the influence of high temperatures. The concept was developed and communicated by doctors and then introduced to the application by beauticians.
And photothermolysis is also the process of thermolysis, but it is caused by exposure to light energy. In cosmetology, it is used in photoepilation and laser "renovation" of scars and scars.
Fractional photothermolysis is a technique in which photothermolysis does not affect the entire skin surface, but only individual areas. This means that we can speak of focal destruction of tissues by heating them with the help of laser (light) energy.
The essence of the procedure and other names
The procedure of fractional photothermolysis is classified as a way of negatively stimulating the skin, since during the session a certain type of injury is applied, in this case burns.
To achieve the expected cosmetic result, you need to start the regeneration process, which restores the skin after damage.
Such a thermal burn looks like a "pillar" that is formed in the thickness of the dermis under the targeted action of laser beams. This "pillar" in cosmetology is called "microscopic treatment zone", or abbreviated - MLZ.
They do not reach more than a tenth of a millimeter in diameter: around 0. 1 to 0. 4 mm, with a penetration depth of up to 0. 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, ten to several thousand such microtraumas can be localized on a square centimeter of the surface, while the beat 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, micro-damages 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 taper;
- fractional laser nanoperforation;
Ablative and non-ablative method
Laser ablation is the vaporization of a substance using a laser pulse. In ablative fractional photothermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation whose energy is mainly absorbed by water molecules.
With a short-term impact on a localized area, the laser beam almost immediately heats the water contained in the tissues up to 300 ° C. As a result, the entire "pillar" evaporates and in its place there is a microscopic open wound surrounded by layers of thermally coagulated cellsis.
After ablative photothermolysis, recovery is 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 more noticeable. It is best to use a course of 2 to 6 sessions. However, with such procedures, the patient is exposed to a certain risk of infection of tissues in the deep layers of the skin.
Non-ablative fractional thermolysis is due to more gentle microtrauma techniques. A laser beam is used, which practically does not damage the epidermis, burns form under it.
Destroyed tissue does not evaporate, but remains in the "column", of course, there are no open wounds. The lifting is not as obvious as with the first ablative method, since the cellular breakdown products have not been removed at the time of the procedure, which means that there is no "tightening" of 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 layer of the skin, since the integrity of the surface is not violated.
indications, effect
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 removing keloid formations.
advantages
How does this method differ from classic "polishing" with a laser? With the traditional approach, the burn affects a large area, and with fractional exposure it has the character of a localized and punctual one.
There are spaces of intact skin between burn lesions, making photothermolysis less traumatic and accelerating healing time.
The method is suitable for the treatment of all parts 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 on the eyelids.
A feature of this optical thermolysis of the dermis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which allows to avoid missing areas of skin or overlapping of one zone with another.
mechanism of action
At the preliminary 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 certainly make a point about the risks and the development of postoperative complications, as well as about caring for the skin after photothermolysis.
It is necessary to discuss and select the appropriate pain relief method in advance, and the client must definitely report any allergic reactions to drugs, if any.
A few hours before the session, a superficial peeling is performed, the purpose of which is to even out the thickness of the horny layer of the skin.
During the operation, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Their severity can in no way depend on the model of the device used. The level of pain depends on the depth and intensity of the laser beam, and these parameters are determined by the specialist himself, being guided by the therapeutic goals.
The more the problem is neglected, the deeper layers must be affected.
However, as an anesthetic, ordinary creams with an anesthetic effect are used, which are applied to the working areas no more than 40 minutes before the start of the session.
During the session, the beautician moves a nozzle over the surface, which emits a targeted laser beam. If such a need arises, the same area will be treated repeatedly within the same procedure.
The duration is 15 minutes to 1 hour. It all depends on how much leather is treated. Once the fractional photothermolysis is complete, a soothing cream is applied to the "polished" surface.
To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to perform several procedures - from 3 to 10, depending on what type of exposure was chosen. A session is possible once a month.
Recommendations (training and rehabilitation)
A few days before the planned procedure, the patient should begin prophylactic treatment with antibiotics and antivirals. Of course, if there is objective evidence of this.
On the day that fractional photothermolysis occurs, the person should avoid alcohol and exercise altogether.
After the procedure of non-ablative photothermolysis, the recovery process lasts up to three days, after the ablation type at least a week.
If the "polishing" was based on an ablation, the patient will continue to experience red skin, swelling, burning, and discomfort for a few days.
After consulting a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local painkillers to the skin, which are available in the form of a spray.
After at least three days, the color of the "polished" dermis can change slightly. For example, it can become pseudo-tanned due to increased degradation of pigment-containing residues from previously necrotic cells.
Dryness appears, peeling begins, and a person may experience some itching even 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 rehabilitation after Fraxel to proceed without complications, you need to follow a few basic recommendations:
- You must take care of the skin and apply the recommended external products. In most cases, these are medications prescribed to treat burns and moisturizing sprays.
- the crust that forms on the surface during wound healing should not be removed artificially, but only fall off naturally;
- If before the procedure the patient took antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, then the course should be continued according to the instructions.
- In order not to develop hyperpigmentation, the treated skin must be protected from direct sunlight for at least a month. Usually use sunscreen with SPF 40+;
- During the recovery period, it is forbidden to use scrubs and other mechanical methods of skin cleansing.
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 lasting more than two days;
- hyperpigmentation in the post-inflammatory phase;
- the appearance of burn blisters, erosion cracks;
- worsening of HSV1 or acne;
- microscopic bleeding under the skin.
Contraindications (general and local)
Fractional photothermolysis is not carried out in the case of the following general contraindications:
- oncological tumors;
- the lactation period;
- HSV1 and HSV2 in the acute stage;
- infectious diseases;
- chronic diseases in the stage of manifestation;
- diabetes mellitus of any kind;
- Defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system;
- disorders in the work of the organs of the hematopoietic system, poor blood clotting;
- the presence of autoimmune diseases;
- tendency to form deep scars of the keloid type;
- status epilepticus or convulsive syndrome;
- psychological deviations;
- taking isotretinoin for six months;
- a fresh tan or a visit to the solarium.
And the following local contraindications:
- any inflammatory processes localized in the intended work area;
- impaired skin integrity;
- all neoplasms of unknown origin;
- Dry cleaning of the skin or other procedures that could injure the skin.
Where and on which devices is carried out, approximate prices
The cost of a Fraxel procedure depends on the area being treated, so estimated prices for fractional laser resurfacing will vary.
Only qualified specialists can conduct photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetic hospital.
For the Fraxel rejuvenation itself, devices with CO2 or Erbium lasers are used. 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 be that as it may, procedures based on exposure to a laser beam are among the most popular, effective and safe.
reviews
We invite you to read some reviews about 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 normally slightly enlarged pores became tighter and the skin on my forehead and cheeks looked much more even. I was satisfied. The only thing that caused me inconvenience was the peeling 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 evaluation: "I would like to share with you my impression of this method, as I felt a positive result. After three procedures, I noticed that my face became lighter, the pigment spots on some parts of the face became lighter, the scars became less noticeable, and the skin became firmer. These changes did not happen all at once, but gradually. After about 4 months I looked 5-6 years younger than I was. 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 it has more undesirable consequences than pluses. However, when the first wrinkles appeared, the idea of \u200b\u200bthe "magical skin transformation" began to visit my head more and more often. So I decided to have a photothermolysis session. There were slightly painful, but tolerable sensations. After a while, joyful changes in theFace visible: wrinkles around 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 rating: "I consider this method indispensable for every woman who wants to stay young and attractive. I discovered something new for myself and was very satisfied. There are many positive moments and all of them were reflected in my face: fine lines and pigment spots are gone, the skin is not so flabby anymore, there is less inflammation and, above all, I like myself a lot more. I would like to advise everyone to love themselves, not skimp on their beauty and use effective procedures to preserve their youth.