Rejuvenation uses CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers, the radiation of which is predominantly absorbed by water. They differ in wavelength and degree of energy absorption, which determines the technology of the process. CO-2 devices are used for ablative rejuvenation and erbium devices for non-ablative use.
During ablative rejuvenation, the laser beam affects not only the deep layers of the skin, but also the superficial ones. Non-ablative - the laser penetrates deep into the tissue but does not damage the skin surface. This is possible due to the different wavelengths of the lasers and the fact that the epidermis contains less water (10-15%) than the deep layers of the skin (70-75%).
Of the medical lasers available, carbon dioxide lasers have the longest wavelength at 10, 600 nm. Such rays are absorbed very well by water, so they react even with a small amount of water in the epidermis. Therefore, ablative techniques are performed using such lasers, which are able to affect the surface layer of the skin.
The wavelength of the erbium laser is between 1064 and 2940 nm. Clinics use the Palomar Lux 1540 laser, which has a wavelength of 1540 nm and a penetration depth of up to 2 mm. Such rays are less absorbed by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damaging it. The laser effect starts already in the deep layers, where there are enough water molecules to interact with the beam. Palomar Lux 1540 can be used for fractional photothermolysis.
Why is laser rejuvenation a safe and effective procedure?
Modern CO2 and erbium lasers work in fragments, i. the beam is divided into microbeam in the form of a grid. As a result, only 20% of the surface is damaged and the recovery process begins over the entire volume of the skin. This effect minimizes the possibility of heat damage, unpleasant consequences in the form of scars and scars, and increases the rate of tissue recovery.
Under the influence of laser, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative technology - open, non-ablative - closed. These columns are a certain distance apart due to the fragmentary effect. The cells around the coagulation zone suffer from heat shock, which activates metabolic processes and the production of new cells. Thanks to this, a lifting effect can be achieved, the skin is rejuvenated.
Who is ablative rejuvenation suitable for?
Ablative rejuvenation is an extremely effective way to solve problems such as shallow wrinkles, pigmentation, and a decrease in skin elasticity and firmness.
The laser acts primarily on the upper layers of the dermis, not penetrating deeply but acting on the surface layer. As a result, the skin is renewed to the full depth of penetration of the beam (up to 1 mm) and surface imperfections are obviously corrected. Only 1 procedure is required to achieve a good effect. The recovery period after the procedure is 5-7 days.
Ablative rejuvenation, especially DOT therapy, is suitable for those who want to achieve fast results with minimal rehabilitation time.
Who is suitable for non-ablative rejuvenation?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is one of the most effective techniques for removing wrinkles, lifting skin, rejuvenating, improving skin quality, treating pigment spots and other skin blemishes.
The operation of the laser only in the deep layers leads to the fact that the post-procedure rehabilitation period is practically absent and only 2-3 days. A larger number of procedures, usually 3-4, will be required to achieve a result similar to ablative rejuvenation. Due to the deeper penetration, a complete restructuring of the tissues occurs, which gives a noticeable lifting effect.
Non-ablative rejuvenation, especially fractional photothermolysis, is suitable for those who want to achieve tangible results without intensive exposure and rehabilitation.