For rejuvenation, 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 the degree of energy absorption, which determines the technology of the procedure. CO-2 devices are used for ablative rejuvenation, and erbium devices - for non-ablatives.
With ablative rejuvenation, the laser beam works not only on the deep layers of the skin, but also on the superficial layers. With non-ablative - the laser penetrates deep into the tissue, but does not damage the skin surface. This is possible thanks 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%).
Carbon dioxide lasers have the longest wavelength of all available medical lasers 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 using such lasers, capable of affecting the surface layer of the skin.
The wavelengths of the Erbium laser range from 1064 to 2940 nm. Clinics use the Palomar Lux 1540 laser, the wavelength of which is 1540nm, and the depth of penetration into tissues can reach 2mm. Such rays are less absorbed by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damaging it. The action of the laser begins already 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 act in a fractional way, i. e. the beam is subdivided into micro-beams in the form of a grid. As a result, only 20% of the surface is damaged, and the recovery process is initiated on the entire volume of the skin. This effect minimizes the possibility of heat damage, unpleasant consequences in the form of scarring and scarring, and also increases the rate of tissue repair.
As a result of the action of the laser, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative - open, non-ablative - closed technology. These columns are located some distance from each other due to split action. The cells around the coagulation zone experience heat shock which activates metabolic processes and the production of new cells. Thanks to this, a lifting effect is obtained, the skin is rejuvenated.
Who is ablative rejuvenation for?
Ablative rejuvenation is a very effective method of solving problems such as superficial wrinkles, pigmentation and decreased elasticity and firmness of the skin.
The laser acts mainly in the upper layers of the dermis, does not penetrate deeply, but affects the surface layer. Thanks to this, the skin is renewed over the entire depth of penetration of the beam (up to 1 mm) and the obvious correction of superficial imperfections. To achieve a good effect, only one procedure is required. The recovery period after the procedure is 5-7 days.
Ablative rejuvenation, especially DOT therapy, is suitable for those who want a quick result with a minimal rehabilitation period.
Who is non-ablative rejuvenation for?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is also one of the most effective techniques for removing wrinkles, lifting the skin, rejuvenating, improving skin quality, treating pigmentation and other skin imperfections.
The use 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 rejuvenation, a greater number of procedures will be required, usually 3-4. Due to 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 a noticeable result without intensive exposure and period of rehabilitation.