Fractional thermolysis (fraxel) is a method of "rediscovering" the face and body with a laser, which helps treat skin problems related to age and stress.
This procedure is almost as effective as surgical braces and, after thermolysis, the skin cells begin to produce actively, as in youth, they produce collagen and elastin, ie beneficial changes occur in many layers simultaneously and not only on the outer skin.
The procedure is very effective, but at the same time traumatic. It can be performed only in specialized clinics.
What it is - fractional photothermolysis, what is the essence of the method and its effectiveness, indications and contraindications for procedures on the face and body using fraxel technology, before and after photos, consequences and reviews about the laser procedure, estimated prices and what devices areused - 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 idea was created and mediated by doctors and then put to use by cosmetologists.
Photothermolysis is also the process of thermolysis, but it is caused by exposure to light energy. In cosmetology it is used during photoepilation and the "rediscovery" of scars and laser 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 tissue destruction by heating them with the help of laser (light) energy.
The essence of the process and other names
The process of fractional photothermolysis is classified as a way of negative skin stimulation, since during the session a specific type of injury is applied, in this case burns.
To achieve the expected cosmetic effect, you must begin the regeneration process, which restores the skin after damage.
A thermal burn of this type resembles a "column", which forms in the thickness of the dermis under the targeted action of laser beams. This "column" in cosmetology is called the "microscopic treatment zone", 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 up to 0. 5 mm. Depending on the type of procedure chosen, from ten to several thousand such microtraumas can be detected in one square centimeter of the surface, while the impact rate is 3000 MLZ / sec.
If we analyze the mechanism of action of fractional photothermolysis, then it is similar to the treatment with a scooter, but when a roller is used, micro-lesions are applied mechanically using needles.
In the practice of cosmetology, the concept of fractional thermolysis has many commonly used synonyms:
- Dermal optical thermolysis.
- DOT treatment?
- fractional laser "polishing";
- LAFT rejuvenation?
- fractional laser nanopores.
Subtractive and non-abstract method
Laser removal is the evaporation of a substance using a laser pulse. When using abstract fractional photothermolysis, choose a type of laser radiation whose energy is mainly 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 to 300C. Because of this, the entire "column" evaporates and in its place a tiny open-type wound forms, which is surrounded by layers of thermally coagulated cells.
After abstract photothermolysis, recovery will be much slower and longer than with a non-abstract method.
But the results of the process will be objectively better and the lifting result 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 skin layers.
Non-abstract fractional thermolysis can be attributed to milder microtrauma techniques. A laser beam is used, which practically does not damage the skin, burns are formed under it.
Damaged tissues do not evaporate, but remain inside the "column", of course, there are no open wounds. The lifting is not as obvious as with the first removal method, since the products of cell decomposition were not removed at the time of 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 skin layer, as there is no violation of the integrity of the surface.
Indications, result
The reasons for appointing a process that uses Fraxel technology can be the following:
- the need to stimulate withered and aged skin.
- treatment of pigmented / discolored lesions.
- to get rid of scars after acne and small scars.
- the need to remove stretch marks.
It is not suitable for getting rid of keloids.
Advantages
How is this method different from the classic laser "polishing"? With the traditional approach the burn affects a large area and with fractional exposure has the character of localized and spot.
There are areas between the burns with intact skin and this makes the photothermolysis less traumatic and speeds up the healing time.
The method is suitable for the treatment of 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 on the eyelids.
A feature of this optical dermal thermolysis is the innovative design of the DOT device itself, which makes it possible to avoid losing areas of skin or overlapping one area over another.
Action mechanism
In the preliminary consultation, the cosmetologist determines the goals that 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 definitely make a point about the risks and the development of postoperative complications, as well as how to care for the skin after a course of photothermolysis.
It is necessary to discuss in advance and choose the appropriate method of pain relief and the client must definitely report allergic reactions to medications, if any.
A few hours before the session, a superficial peeling is performed, the purpose of which is to smooth the thickness of the stratum corneum of the skin.
During the operation, the patient may experience moderate pain and discomfort. Their severity can in no case 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 neglected, the deeper layers need to be affected.
Usually, as an anesthetic, ordinary creams with anesthetic effect are used, which are applied to the working areas at most 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 repeatedly treated under the same procedure.
The duration is from 15 minutes to 1 hour. It all depends on how much skin is treated. Upon completion of the fractional photothermolysis, a cream with a calming effect is applied to the "polished" surface.
To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to carry out a process of many procedures - from 3 to 10, depending on the type of exposure chosen. You can do one session once a month.
Recommendations (training and rehabilitation)
A few days before the scheduled procedure, the patient should begin taking a prophylactic course of antibiotics and antiviral agents. Of course, if there is objective evidence for this.
On the day of fractional photothermolysis, the individual should avoid alcohol and abstain completely from any sport.
Following the non-abstract photothermolysis procedure, the recovery process takes up to three days, after the removal formula - at least one week.
If the "polishing" was based on removal, then for several more days the patient will have redness of the skin, swelling, burning sensation and discomfort.
After consultation with a specialist, you can apply cooling compresses or apply local analgesics to the skin, available in spray form.
After at least three days, the color of the "polished" skin may change slightly. For example, it may become pseudo-tanned due to increased decomposition of pigment-containing residues from previous necrotic cells.
Dryness will occur, peeling will begin and a person may even experience some itching for a short time. All of these events are not dangerous and will go away on their own in about a week. It is strictly forbidden to scratch the skin that causes itching!
In order for recovery after fraxel to go smoothly, you need to follow some basic recommendations:
- you must take care of the skin and definitely apply the recommended external products. In most cases, these are medications that are prescribed to treat heat burns and moisturizing sprays.
- the crust that forms on the surface as the wounds heal should not be removed artificially, only a natural fall.
- if before the procedure the patient received antimicrobial and antiviral drugs, then their course should be continued according to the instructions.
- To prevent hyperpigmentation, it is necessary to isolate the skin that has been treated from direct sunlight for a period of at least one 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
Although fractional photothermolysis is one of the most modern and safe methods, it also has a number of side effects:
- bacterial infection, development of streptoderm or staphylococcus.
- 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 burn bubbles, corrosive cracks.
- exacerbation of HSV1 or acne.
- tiny bleeding under the skin.
Contraindications (general and local)
Fractional photothermolysis is not performed with the following general contraindications:
- oncological tumors;
- the breastfeeding period;
- HSV1 and HSV2 in the acute phase.
- infectious diseases;
- chronic diseases at the stage of manifestation.
- diabetes of any type;
- defects and insufficiency of the cardiovascular system.
- disorders of the organs of the hematopoietic system, poor blood clotting.
- the presence of autoimmune diseases.
- tendency to form deep keloid-type scars.
- epileptic condition or convulsive syndrome.
- mental disorders;
- taking isotretinoin for six months.
- a recent tan or a visit to the solarium.
And the following local contraindications:
- all inflammatory processes located in the intended work area.
- impaired skin integrity.
- any neoplasms of unknown origin.
- dry skin cleansing or any other procedure that could injure the skin.
Approximate prices where and on which devices
The cost of a fraxel procedure depends on the area being treated, so the estimated values for fractional laser resurfacing vary.
Only qualified specialists can perform photothermolysis sessions in a cosmetology hospital.
For the fraxel rejuvenation process itself, CO2 or erbium laser devices 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. However, procedures based on the action of a laser beam are among the most popular, effective and safe.
Critics
We invite you to read some reviews about fractional laser 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, usually slightly enlarged, tightened and the skin on my forehead and cheeks began to look much more uniform. I was satisfied. The only thing that bothered me was the peeling that appeared 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 my impression of this method, as I felt a positive result. After three operations, I noticed that my face was glowing, the pigment spots in some parts of the face became lighter, the scars began to appear less noticeably and the skin tightened. These changes were not made all at once, 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 critique: "I was very afraid of this kind of procedures, believing that there are more side effects than positive ones. 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 photothermal session. Along the way, there were slightly painful but tolerable sensations. After a while, the happy changes in the face became visible: the wrinkles around the eyes smoothed out, the skin became lighter, the contour tightened. In general, I liked the result. I will use this procedure again if necessary.
- Fourth critique: "I believe that this method is necessary for every woman who wants to stay young and attractive. I discovered something new for myself and I was incredibly satisfied. There are many positive moments and they are all reflected in my face: fine wrinkles and pigmentation are gone, the skin is not so flabby, 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.