Everything about the laser facial rejuvenation procedure: problems that can be solved, possible complications, absolute contraindications

From this article you will learn:

• The essence of fractional laser rejuvenation
• 4 types of fractional laser rejuvenation
• Benefits of fractional laser rejuvenation
• Indications for the rejuvenation procedure
• Fractional rejuvenation for the treatment of scars and stretch marks
• Contraindications for such rejuvenation
• Preparation and progress of the procedure
• Number of sessions
• Possible side effects
• 7 tips for post-procedure care
• Approximate prices for fractional laser rejuvenation
• Frequently asked questions about fractional laser rejuvenation

Fractional laser rejuvenation is know-how in cosmetology. The procedure appeared quite recently, but has already proven itself on the positive side. Everyone who wants to rejuvenate the skin of their face, neck, and hands resorts to it. It has many indications and few contraindications.

This type of rejuvenation allows you to smooth the skin, remove scars and scars, and even out the tone. The procedure lasts a few minutes, and the effect lasts up to five years. Isn’t this what many women dream of – visiting a salon and staying beautiful for a long time? In any case, before signing up for a session, you should consult your doctor, as side effects are possible.

The essence of fractional laser rejuvenation

One of the newest modern developments in the field of cosmetology is the technique of fractional laser rejuvenation. Currently, it is not without reason that it can be called the most popular of all laser therapy procedures.

During the session, a laser beam passed through a special fractional grid breaks up into a large number of microbeams. This method provides a targeted (fractional) effect on the skin without completely disrupting it.

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Many tiny treatment areas are formed in the dermis layer, where the development of renewed young skin tissue occurs very quickly. Cells located around the affected areas begin intensive division, filling the damaged areas. As a result, rejuvenating processes in the deep layers of the dermis are stimulated. Micro-rays, affecting the middle and upper layers of skin tissue, help eliminate pigmentation, wrinkles and scars.

Fractional laser rejuvenation of facial skin helps it gain firmness and elasticity. In addition, thanks to the procedure, pores are significantly reduced, the oval of the face becomes more toned, the shade and texture of the skin becomes smoother, and wrinkles and scars are significantly smoothed out.

Types of laser therapy

The depth of laser exposure may vary. Only a specialist can determine what type of laser rejuvenation should be used in a particular case. The operating principle of devices from different companies has some differences.

Fractional type of laser rejuvenation

A beam directed at a specific area is used to polish the skin. The exposure temperature is very high. Therefore, the speed of the laser plays a big role. By hesitating, the cosmetologist can cause a burn. Sometimes only problem areas are treated. This method is ideal for targeted treatment. Devices from different manufacturers are used. The most popular are Fraxel Re:store (Fraxel), Palomar Max or Lux (Palomar), as well as devices from Sybaritic and Candela (CO2 laser).

Facial biorevitalization with laser

Short laser pulses are used. The technology involves applying a special substance to the skin, which must penetrate deep into the process of heating the surface with a laser. Under the influence of temperature, the pores open. The active components penetrate the layers of the skin and fulfill their mission. The procedure also helps remove the stratum corneum. The epidermis is renewed. His appearance changes significantly.

Laser resurfacing

The safest method. The essence is the gentle and at the same time deep penetration of the laser into the layers of the skin. The tissues warm up and old cells burn. The dead layer is separated, the regeneration process is accelerated. To achieve the effect, it is permissible to do such laser rejuvenation at home. It is enough to have the necessary equipment and know the theory of the procedure. Suitable devices: syneron and smartxide.

Non-ablative laser irradiation

Long laser beams are directed at the face. The entire surface is subject to treatment. Intense exposure can cause complications. Therefore, the method is used to eliminate defects that greatly disfigure the appearance. To combat age-related changes, it is better to choose a less traumatic method. The most popular device is smooth. Other options are smart and cutera.

Benefits of fractional laser rejuvenation

This technology has been used in the field of cosmetology for more than 10 years. It is effective, safe and has a number of advantages when compared with other rejuvenating and healing techniques:

• practically does not cause side effects;
• non-invasive, so there is no chance of client infection (including HIV);
• painless and quite comfortable;
• allowed from 16 years of age;
• hygienic, since the instruments do not come into contact with the skin;
• suitable for atonic skin types;
• it is possible to choose an individual treatment program;
• Suitable for clients with any degree of skin pigmentation;
• areas with defects are treated pointwise, so the possibility of damage to healthy tissue around is excluded;
• due to the fact that only 25% of the skin is injured, the recovery period after the procedure is short (face – seven days, body – 14 days);
• the effect becomes noticeable immediately after the first procedure;
• the result obtained lasts for several years;
• it is possible to treat delicate areas;
• in affected areas, elastin production is significantly accelerated.

Laser or beams of light – what to choose?

Fractional exposure, like photorejuvenation, is performed using a special device. Many women wonder which is better between these two methods?

In both the first and second cases, the effect on the skin is carried out by light energy. But there are still criteria for comparison:

1. Laser exposure has a stronger effect on regenerative processes than the flow of light rays.
2. To achieve results, several more sessions will be required if the client prefers photorejuvenation.
3. After laser treatment, the effect lasts longer.
4. Laser exposure injures the skin to a greater extent.
5. When Fraxel is used, the recovery period lasts longer.

It is worth choosing a rejuvenation method on an individual basis. Therefore, it cannot be said unequivocally that laser is the best option, and photorejuvenation is not so effective. There will be a visible result after each procedure.

How exactly to deal with the problem with which a client comes to the clinic must be decided by cosmetologists. Sometimes it is enough to focus on one of the methods, and sometimes an integrated approach is required.

In any case, if you set out to rejuvenate your face, modern cosmetology will find suitable ways for this.

Laser technologies do not stand still. They are improving every day. Who knows, maybe in the near future sessions will have no contraindications at all?

And then visiting an aesthetic medicine clinic will be a common thing for all women over 25 years old. After all, whatever you say, beauty has always been and will be in first place for the fairer sex.

Indications for the rejuvenation procedure

Fractional laser rejuvenation can be used for:

• general skin rejuvenation;
• skin lifting (face, neck, décolleté, hands);
• smoothing scars;
• skin smoothing;
• restoration of the oval contour of the face;
• wrinkle removal;
• elimination of pigment spots and melasma;
• removal of stretch marks (striae);
• eliminating the consequences of acne.

As a result of intense exposure to fractional laser, the skin may become hyperpigmented for a short period of time.

To get a good result, after the procedure it is necessary to treat the skin with sunscreen cosmetics with a protection level of at least SPF 50.

Fractional grinding can be compared with continuous grinding in terms of the resulting effect. Judging by the extensive foreign and domestic experience, this hardware technique is less traumatic and leads to an amazing rejuvenating and tightening effect.

What to choose?

It is difficult to say which of the listed types of laser exposure is the best. Each of the methods is effective in solving certain problems. Therefore, the choice depends on the desired effect.

For example, Palomar laser rejuvenation perfectly smoothes out facial wrinkles. It also evens out skin texture, gets rid of acne, and improves complexion. But this method is not suitable for removing deep folds.

If Fraxel is chosen, you can expect a similar effect. By the way, when a woman wants to get rid of “crow’s feet,” Fraxel is the most suitable method.

It is worth giving preference to such a mild effect due to the increased sensitivity of the area around the eyes. The intense flow of laser beams in this area is unacceptable.

Laser resurfacing has a good effect on the condition of the skin. Using this method, it is possible to rejuvenate the epidermis, say goodbye to the first wrinkles, and cure acne. Moreover, this type of laser treatment is so simple that you can carry it out yourself.

A more serious procedure is smooth rejuvenation. Such an effect is recommended in the following cases:

• deep wrinkles;
• chemical burns;
• scars left after injuries;
• persistent acne.

In addition to the types mentioned, the beauty salon can offer photorejuvenation. Light exposure sessions help restore skin elasticity, make it elastic and smooth.

Fractional rejuvenation for the treatment of scars and stretch marks

This rejuvenation method is especially effective in treating scar tissue. Fractional laser beams have the ability to crush roughened scar tissue, after which it acquires elasticity, softness, and the tension of the surrounding healthy tissue decreases.

Fractional photothermolysis helps reduce the area of ​​scars, making them elastic, unnoticeable, and as close as possible in appearance to healthy skin.

Fractional rejuvenation is indicated for the treatment of stretch marks. Sadly, stretch marks cannot be completely eliminated, you can only make them more invisible.

The effect of fractional treatment is:

• reducing the area of ​​stretch marks;
• reducing tissue fiber breaks;
• aligning the shade of stretch marks with the tone of healthy skin;
• increasing the elasticity and firmness of the skin tissue around and relieving tension.

Contraindications for such rejuvenation

Fractional rejuvenation, like any cosmetic procedure, is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, in order to avoid negative consequences, before the session it is necessary to carefully study all contraindications.

Fractional photothermolysis is not recommended:

• during pregnancy and during breastfeeding, since any changes that occur in the body of a pregnant or lactating woman affect the baby - you should not risk the child’s health, it is better to postpone the procedure;
• in case of inflammation (or redness) in the treated area, the cosmetologist will refuse to carry out fractional laser photothermolysis in the cheek area if they are covered with an allergic rash (the laser beam can damage the skin up to deep scars);
• for chemical peeling - if you have cleansed your face, you need to allow the layers of the epidermis to strengthen for two weeks (minimum) and prepare for exposure to the laser beam;
• in the presence of oncological diseases, since spontaneous complications may arise as a result of laser exposure;
• with diagnosed diabetes mellitus;
• in the presence of viral and bacterial infections - in order to avoid the invasion of foreign elements into the cell structure during fractional rejuvenation, it is first necessary to recover completely.

Hardware

Thermage and RF lifting

Techniques based on the use of electromagnetic waves.

The result of use is an increase in skin elasticity and a decrease in swelling under the eyes.

Photorejuvenation

The technology includes two methods of influence - radio wave and light.

Under their influence, blood circulation improves and the synthesis of collagen and elastin in tissues is stimulated.

Finds effective use in the presence of vascular networks, pigmentation and fine wrinkles in the eye area.

Preparation and progress of the procedure

To avoid disastrous consequences in the form of complications after a cosmetic procedure, it is necessary to carefully prepare for it.

First, you need to consult with a cosmetologist and get an assessment of the condition of the skin on your face. The specialist will determine a list of contraindications and give the necessary recommendations.

Before the procedure, it is not advisable to visit the bathhouse, sauna, or solarium for 3–4 weeks. In addition, sunbathing in the open sun is prohibited. Before going outside, you need to apply sunscreen to your face.

It is very important to stop taking certain medications, particularly antibiotics and blood thinners. In addition, doctors recommend taking antiherpetic medications.

No later than two weeks in advance, it is not recommended to perform manipulations that injure the skin tissue.

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Fractional laser rejuvenation of the eyes and other areas takes place in several stages. First, the cosmetologist must prepare the skin areas for the procedures. To do this, it removes the remnants of decorative cosmetics from the skin, as well as dirt, dust, and sweat. Then the surface is treated with an antiseptic.

The next step is to apply an anesthetic cream, which is left on the skin for about an hour.

After anesthesia, contact gel is evenly applied to the face so that the sensor glides smoothly and evenly over the surface of the skin.

The tip is then used to process the skin tissue in straight lines in several directions. The device is equipped with nozzles of different sizes. Typically, 2 cm² of skin is treated in one pass.

At the end of the procedure, the specialist should remove the remaining contact gel and apply a soothing cream.

Indications and contraindications

Laser rejuvenation is recommended in the following cases:

• expression and dynamic wrinkles;
• signs of age-related changes on the face;
• grayish or yellowish skin tone;
• dark spots;
• enlarged pores;
• traces after rashes;
• bags under the eyes;
• stretch marks on the skin;
• saggy skin along the contour of the face.

Despite the safety of laser exposure, the method still has a number of contraindications. These include:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• inflammation in the places to be treated;
• skin diseases (dermatitis, psoriasis);
• herpes virus;
• oncological formations;
• diabetes;
• low immunity;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• blood clotting problems;
• hypertension;
• presence of scars on the skin;
• recent chemical peeling;
• fresh tan

If the limitations are not taken into account, the procedure will not only be ineffective. It can cause serious complications. Therefore, health problems should be reported to the cosmetologist during the consultation.

Perhaps the specialist will select another method of rejuvenation that will not be contraindicated for you personally. In case of temporary reasons forcing you to cancel sessions, you should be patient. Postpone your visit to the clinic until more favorable circumstances arise.

Number of sessions

After fractional laser rejuvenation of the eyelids and other problem areas, rehabilitation of 3–7 days is required. The duration of the rehabilitation period will depend on the patient's lifestyle. For example, bad habits, poor nutrition, excessive physical activity, stress and disturbed sleep can significantly slow down skin regeneration after the procedure.

During the first three days after the session, redness and slight swelling may appear on the skin. To reduce the level of discomfort, you can take painkillers and use skin cooling products.

It is considered normal if during the first week the skin feels tight and peels in some places. Side effects include a bronze tint to the face, which disappears after 14 days.

A lasting result can be achieved by performing two to five procedures. A cosmetologist can tell you exactly how many sessions are needed, depending on each individual case and the client’s initial data.

The interval between sessions should be at least 3-4 weeks. Fractional laser rejuvenation slows down aging: wrinkles decrease or disappear completely, turgor increases, pores narrow, and complexion evens out. This method effectively removes pigmentation, post-acne, stretch marks and scars.

Possible side effects

Complications after fractional laser rejuvenation procedures are extremely rare. Most often, negative consequences are observed due to the unprofessional actions of a cosmetologist who neglects the processing instructions. Sometimes side effects occur due to the client's failure to follow skin care recommendations.

Most likely complications:

• severe hyperemia of the skin, which goes away on its own after three days;
• swelling;
• dark skin tone;
• excessive dryness and flaking of the skin;
• burns;
• scars and cicatrices;
• white or yellow milia raised above the surface (dense nodules that form under the skin);
• inflammatory processes in damaged areas;
• the phenomenon of hyperpigmentation (may appear as a result of exposure to sunlight).

Complications after fractional laser rejuvenation will not appear if you prepare well before the procedure, choose a reliable clinic and an experienced professional.

Approximate prices for fractional laser rejuvenation

The price for fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation will depend on the area of ​​the treatment areas and the depth of penetration of the rays. Some cosmetic clinics offer clients price lists that indicate the cost of processing 1 cm².

Estimated price for fractional laser facial rejuvenation:

As you can see, the cost depends on the number of sessions performed.

The best result can be achieved if treatment is carried out in courses calculated by a professional cosmetologist.