For rejuvenation, CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers are used, the radiation of which is mostly absorbed by water. They differ from each other in the wavelength and the degree of energy absorption, which determines the technology of the procedure. CO-2 devices are used for ablative rejuvenation, and erbium ones - for non-ablative.
With ablative rejuvenation, laser light acts not only on the deep layers of the skin, but also on the surface layers. Non-ablatively - the laser penetrates deep into the tissue, but does not damage the skin surface. This is possible due to the different wavelengths of lasers, as well as the fact that the epidermis contains less water (10-15%) than in the deep layers of the skin (70-75%).
The carbon dioxide laser has the longest wavelength of all medical lasers available at 10, 600 nm. Such rays are very well absorbed by water, so they react even with a small amount of water contained in the epidermis. Therefore, the ablative technique is performed with the help of such a laser, which is capable of affecting the surface layers of the skin.
The wavelength of the Erbium laser ranges from 1064 to 2940 nm. The clinic uses a Palomar Lux 1540 laser, the wavelength is 1540 nm, and the penetration depth into the tissue is up to 2 mm. The light is poorly absorbed by water and therefore passes through the epidermis without damaging it. The laser action has already started in the inner layer, where there are enough water molecules to interact with the beam. Palomar Lux 1540 was used for fractional photothermolysis.
Why is laser rejuvenation a safe and effective procedure?
Modern CO2 and erbium lasers work fractionally, that is, the beam is further divided into microbeams in the form of a grid. Due to this, only 20% of the surface is damaged, and the restoration process is launched 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 also increases the speed of tissue repair.
As a result of laser action, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative - open, non-ablative - closed technology. These columns are located at a certain distance from each other due to the fractional action. The cells around the coagulation zone are subjected to heat shock, which activates metabolic processes and the production of new cells. Thanks to this, a lifting effect is achieved, the skin is rejuvenated.
Who is ablative rejuvenation suitable for?
Ablative rejuvenation is a very effective method of treating problems such as shallow wrinkles, pigmentation, and decreased elasticity and firmness of the skin.
The laser works mainly in the upper layer of the dermis, does not penetrate deep, but affects the surface layer. Thanks to this, the skin is updated to the entire depth of penetration of the beam (up to 1 mm) and a clear correction of superficial imperfections. To achieve a good effect, only 1 procedure is required. The recovery period after the procedure is 5-7 days.
Ablative rejuvenation, especially DOT therapy, is suitable for those who want to get quick results with minimal rehabilitation.
Who is non-ablative rejuvenation suitable for?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is also one of the most effective techniques for removing wrinkles, lifting skin, rejuvenating, improving skin quality, treating pigmentation and other skin imperfections.
Laser operation only in the deep layers leads to the fact that the rehabilitation period after the procedure is practically non-existent and is only 2-3 days. To achieve results similar to ablative rejuvenation, more procedures are required, usually 3-4. Due to the deeper penetration, a complete restructuring of the tissue occurs, which provides a pronounced lifting effect.
Non-ablative rejuvenation, particularly fractional photothermolysis, is suitable for those who want to get real results without intensive exposure and rehabilitation periods.