For renewal, CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers are used, the radiation of which is mainly absorbed by water. They differ from each other in wavelength and degree of energy absorption, which determines the technology of the procedure. CO-2 devices are used for ablative renewal, and erbium - for non-ablative.
With ablative rejuvenation, the laser beam acts not only on the deep layers of the skin, but also on the superficial ones. With 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, as well as the fact that the epidermis contains less water (10-15%) than in the deeper layers of the skin (70-75%).
Carbon dioxide lasers have longer wavelengths than any medical laser available at 10, 600 nm. Such rays are very well absorbed by water, so they react even with the small amount of water contained in the epidermis. Therefore, ablative techniques are performed with the help of such lasers, capable of touching the surface layer of the skin.
The wavelength of the Erbium laser varies from 1064 to 2940 nm. Clinics use the Palomar Lux 1540 laser, whose wavelength is 1540 nm, and tissue penetration depth is up to 2 mm. Such rays are absorbed less by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damaging it. The laser action already starts in the deep layers, where there are enough water molecules to interact with the beam. Palomar Lux 1540 is used for fractional photothermolysis.
Why is laser rejuvenation a safe and effective procedure?
Modern CO2 and erbium lasers operate partially, d. m. th. the beam is divided into microtrauma in the form of a grid. Because of this, only 20% of the surface is damaged and the recovery process begins across the entire volume of the skin. This effect minimizes the possibility of heat damage, unpleasant consequences in the form of scars and wounds, and also increases the rate of tissue repair.
As a result of the laser action, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative technology - open, not ablative - closed. These columns are located at a certain distance from each other due to partial action. 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 renewed.
For whom is ablative renewal appropriate?
Ablative rejuvenation is a very effective method for solving problems such as shallow wrinkles, pigmentation and reducing the elasticity and firmness of the skin.
The laser acts mainly on the upper layers of the dermis, does not penetrate deeply, but affects the surface layer. Thanks to this, the skin is renewed throughout the depth of penetration of the beam (up to 1 mm) and the apparent correction of surface imperfections. To achieve a good effect, only 1 procedure is required. The recovery period after the procedure is 5-7 days.
Ablative rejuvenation, in particular DOT therapy, is suitable for those who want to get a quick result with a minimal rehabilitation period.
For whom is non-ablative renewal appropriate?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is also one of the most effective techniques for eliminating wrinkles, lifting the skin, rejuvenating, improving skin quality, treating pigmentation and other skin imperfections.
The operation of the laser only in the deep layers leads to the fact that the rehabilitation period after the procedure is practically absent and is only 2-3 days. To achieve a result similar to ablative renewal, a larger number of procedures will be required, usually 3-4. Due to the deeper penetration, a complete tissue restructuring occurs, which gives a noticeable lifting effect.
Non-ablative rejuvenation, especially fractional photothermolysis, is suitable for those who want to get a noticeable result without intensive exposure and rehabilitation period.