Fractional photothermolysis is a procedure whose action is aimed at correcting the skin with a laser beam. The method is very effective, but traumatic and requires a period of rehabilitation. Thermolysis is the destruction of cell structure by a thermal stimulus, and photothermolysis does the same thing, only with the help of light energy.
A laser beam directed at the thickness of the skin (in the form of a thermal column) forms a controlled burn, thus eliminating unnecessary skin defects. There are two methods of photothermolysis, which differ from each other in the degree of impact on the skin.
Ablative photothermolysis
This method is based on the fact that a certain laser beam is absorbed, mainly by water molecules. The water contained in the tissues is heated up to 300 degrees Celsius and evaporates inside the laser column. In this place, an open wound is formed.
Of course, the rehabilitation process after such a procedure is quite long - at least seven days, but the effect is very noticeable. After wound healing, the skin noticeably tightens and smoothes. It doesn't have to be done just once. The course depends on the complexity of the problem and varies from 2 to 6 times. It is worth remembering that there is a risk of skin infection.
Non-ablative photothermolysis
This procedure is less traumatic as it is performed within the skin without damaging the outer layer of the epidermis. Tissues are not destroyed within the entire laser beam and all processes occur within the skin layer. The tightening effect, with this method, is less pronounced than with the ablation method, since the destruction products remain in the thickness of the skin and are not removed.
On the plus side, there is no risk of skin infection and the rehabilitation process is quite short, only 2-4 days. To obtain a good result, it is necessary to carry out from 3 to 10 procedures.
Indications for fractional photothermolysis
- Age-related skin aging, loss of turgor
- Scars, including keloids.
- Presence of pigmentation
- The presence of stretch marks.
Contraindications
- oncological diseases
- lactation period
- Presence of infectious diseases.
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune diseases
- deviations of the psyche
- Recent sun exposure (tanning) or tanning beds
Possible Side Effects
- wound infection
- Active pigmentation after recovery period.
- Microbleeds in the subcutaneous layer
- The appearance of burns, blisters and cracks on the skin.
Kodi fractional laser resurfacing is carried out using special devices in specialized institutions. Depending on the procedure needed, different types of lasers are used.
For example, to remove a scar, you need a laser that can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin (CO2 laser). And to remove pigmented spots (freckles, for example, or postpartum pigmentation on the skin) they are removed with an erbium laser. To achieve a facial rejuvenation with a good lasting effect, the ideal is to use several types of lasers.
It is worth paying special attention to the professionalism of the cosmetologist who will perform the procedure. Do not be shy and check the certificates for the right to perform photothermolysis, indicating that the specialist is trained and has a certain skill and qualification. And, of course, the most correct option would be if the procedure is performed by a dermatologist-cosmetologist, that is, a specialist with higher education who has been working in a beauty clinic or institute for more than a year.