Every person dreams of healthy and qualitatively renewed skin. Unfortunately, the aging process is an inevitable and obligatory process in the body. Over the years, the skin becomes less elastic, acquiring pronounced porosity, noticeable wrinkles, and age-related pigmentation. Is it possible to cope with such problems?
Fraxel, better known as fractional laser photothermolysis, is considered one of the most effective means in the fight against aging and other skin defects. This rejuvenation technique is carried out non-surgically; it is based only on the correct laser radiation. In this case, the laser beam is divided fractionally into hundreds of individual beams, thanks to which it becomes possible to accurately calculate the intensity and depth of impact on the problem. This feature of the procedure results in a positive final result.
In the process of photothermolysis, broken into fractions, the process of destruction of part of the cellular structures on the surface of the skin occurs. We are talking about 30% controlled destruction of cells with their subsequent regeneration, as well as the production of elastin, as well as collagen fibers. Thanks to the activation of the skin's internal reserves, the promised result is achieved even after several procedures.
Fraxel rejuvenation and indications for it
This procedure is recommended for use solely for aesthetic needs and indications, namely:
- the presence of wrinkles (minor ramifications under the eyes), decreased elasticity, as well as decreased tone;
- defects in the relief of the skin (presence of stretch marks, increased porosity, even in the area of the mammary glands);
- changes in the skin towards scarring of various types of localization and shape (post-traumatic nature, post-operative, post-burn, as well as traces of severe acne, etc.;
- melasma and age spots (age-related);
- aging processes (withered skin) in the neck, face, and hands;
- the patient’s desire to influence the condition of the skin of any part of the body, for example the abdomen or décolleté.
Indications
The FRAXEL procedure is indicated for use in the presence of the following defects and epithelial pathologies:
- stretch marks;
- withering of the dermis;
- freckles;
- wrinkles;
- acne marks;
- crow's feet;
- melasma;
- pigmentation;
- excess epithelium in the eyelid area;
- post-operative, post-traumatic scars.
This video will tell you how the procedure goes:
Varieties of Fraxel rejuvenation
There are four types of Fraxel rejuvenation. Each of them differs in the depth of its effect on the surface of the skin. Let's look at each of them separately:
Fraxel re:store is considered to be a classic version of fractional photothermolysis. The depth of influence ranges from 0.4-1.4 mm. The operating wavelength is about 1550 nm. Because of Re:store, the Fraxel brand is considered synonymous with “fractional photothermolysis.” Flexible settings and balanced performance characteristics in this procedure can provide positive results in the industry of removing scars, burn marks, scars, including post-acne.
Fraxel re:store DUAL is one of the most advanced treatments from the re:store brand. Two lasers fit into a single device: thulium fiber optic (Tm:fiber) and erbium fiber optic classic (Er:fiber). The wavelength of the first is about 1927 nm, and the second is 1550 nm. Increased control over skin coverage is about 70% in the treatment area. The procedure also guarantees uniform exposure of the beam over the surface, which allows you to set different intensities without subsequent complications for the body. The technique is based on the ideal ratio of deep remodeling of the layers of the dermis, as well as regeneration of the epidermis. This combination is extremely suitable for the treatment of scars, stretch marks, elimination of pigment formations, as well as for the purpose of smoothing out wrinkles.
Fraxel Re:fine involves superficial laser penetration under the layers of the skin. This procedure is one of the mildest and least traumatic in its effects. Fractional laser boasts a huge number of noticeable advantages, including its softness. Thanks to them, the rehabilitation period is noticeably reduced. Due to its gentleness, this procedure is suitable even for delicate areas of the body, for example, the mammary glands and eyelid area. Re:fine works by fractional photothermolysis. The penetration depth of the laser beam is up to 0.65 mm. The operating wavelength reaches -1410 nm. Fraxel re:pair is able to affect the deep layers of the dermis. This procedure is extremely effective in eliminating noticeable wrinkles, scar-type deformities, as well as vascular dyschromia. It is used to uniform skin texture, reduce porosity and treat hyperpigmentation. In plastic surgery, Fraxel re:pair is often combined with lifting operations. This is necessary for the purpose of rejuvenating the skin in combination with braces.
Fractional laser facial skin rejuvenation
There are two types of fractional laser facial skin resurfacing:
- Ablative . The laser causes tissue dehydration, which results in a lifting effect. There is a risk of infection.
- Non-ablative . The skin is not injured. The regeneration process occurs under the skin. The development of infection is excluded, but the effect is not very noticeable.
The choice of method is made by a specialist, taking into account the individual characteristics of a person’s skin. Before performing the technology, the cosmetologist may prescribe antibacterial and anti-infective drugs. On the day of the procedure, it is better to give up smoking, drinking alcohol and active sports.
Session and its sequence
Before starting the procedure, thorough cleansing of the skin is recommended. An anesthetic is applied to the treated area, often a lidocaine-based gel. After some time, literally a few minutes, it is washed off, and an ointment is applied to the skin to make it easier to move the attachment of the device.
The procedure for treating the skin with a laser beam is carried out taking into account a certain sequence of actions. The duration of a fractional photothermolysis session often does not exceed 30 minutes. The time depends on the area of the surface being treated with the Fraxel laser. For example, a procedure for treating the face can take from 20 to 30 minutes, and the hips or abdominal area up to 40 minutes. One session, including preparation for it, can take a whole hour.
The sensations experienced during the procedure depend on the skin in the treatment area and its thickness. Most patients feel a slight burning sensation or slight tingling. It is worth noting that in addition to the anesthetic, a cooling air flow is used, which is supplied continuously. Thanks to these features, the Fraxel procedure is considered acceptable and comfortable. After this, a light cream is applied to the treated area of the skin, which eliminates swelling and hyperemia. It is recommended to repeat the session no earlier than after a couple of weeks. The total number of necessary procedures is determined by the doctor on a purely individual basis. A standard rejuvenation course consists of 3 or 4 procedures, which are best repeated at intervals of four weeks. In order to eliminate scars, the number of possible procedures can be expanded to 8.
- For people with sensitive skin, it is better to minimize exposure to direct sun rays for a month after the Fraxel procedure. To do this, on hot summer days it is better to use cosmetics with an increased barrier of protection against ultraviolet radiation (over 30) for 2 or 3 months.
- During the first weeks, it is recommended to apply moisturizing cosmetics to the laser-treated area, for example, a lightweight cream that does not clog pores.
- The use of peelings and other grinding agents is strictly prohibited during the first 2 weeks after the procedure. The application of decorative cosmetics is allowed even for the next day.
Quite often, swelling or redness appears on the skin a couple of days after the procedure. Such manifestations are considered to be a truly natural reaction of the body; it indicates the beginning of regeneration and rejuvenation.
The second indicator of change is peeling of the skin (rejection of old skin cells), which lasts about a week. Such discomfort is eliminated by applying a cream with a moisturizing effect. The tanning effect (so-called bronzing) may linger for approximately 2 weeks after the procedure.
It is worth noting that the desired rejuvenation will reach its maximum effect towards the end of the month after Fraxel. It is fractional photothermolysis that makes the skin noticeably healthier and younger. Sessions of this procedure have a cumulative effect, so the final result can last for 10 or 15 years.
Pros and cons or reviews of photothermolysis
It should be noted that fractional photothermolysis, like any other technique, has its advantages and disadvantages.
What's alarming?
The procedure is painful with a long trail of unpleasant side effects lasting several weeks. Even more confusing is the risk of developing persistent hyperpigmentation and possible infection.
What's encouraging?
There is still an effect. This is confirmed by repeated studies, according to which
- the structure of the skin improves (the density of the dermis increases, telangiectasias are less noticeable),
- the severity of “crow’s feet”, wrinkles in the forehead and glabella decreases,
- There is a decrease in the depth of post-acne scars and post-traumatic scars.
But among clients of cosmetology clinics, reviews of fractional photothermolysis of the face are quite different.
Ladies 35-50 years old
During the first few days after the procedure, they rate their condition below average
- pronounced swelling,
- redness,
- pain,
- burning,
- decreased performance.
However, everyone later notices changes on their face in the form
- more even skin color and texture,
- reducing wrinkles around the eyes and forehead,
- skin tightening of varying degrees of severity.
Although many of them initially expected a more pronounced result.
Back to the beginning of the article
Complications from fractional photothermolysis, contraindications and side effects
Like other methods of hardware cosmetology, this procedure has a list of contraindications for its use:
- oncological diseases;
- manifestations of epilepsy;
- atopic dermatitis, as well as psoriasis;
- inflammation in the area of skin where the procedure is planned (psoriasis or neurodermatitis);
- herpetic rashes;
- infectious diseases that occur in acute form;
- performed deep or medium chemical peeling;
- dermabrasion (mechanical) performed a week before the procedure;
- period of lactation or pregnancy;
- allergy to lidocaine.
The last reading is considered relative.
Since the Fraxel procedure is considered a type of laser peeling, it is characterized by similar side effects. The most common problems are acne, erosion, herpes virus infection, etc. More rare, but still occurring, problems include: prolonged erythema, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, allergies, swelling, etc.
How does the procedure work?
Before the procedure, the skin is cleansed of makeup. Anesthetic ointment is applied to the skin 40-60 minutes before treatment. The ointment is then removed and a lubricant is applied to allow the laser tip to glide across the skin to define the treatment area and density of microthermal treatment zones. During the procedure, the doctor runs the laser handle on the patient’s skin, on which the nozzle is installed (7 or 15 mm, depending on the area being treated), several times in different directions, the movements of his hand are similar to the movements of an artist’s brush when he paints over a canvas. This technique, which differs from the common stamp technique, ensures an optimal therapeutic effect in the affected area, maximum uniformity of impact and safety. Finally, the lubricant is washed off and a soothing cream is applied to the dried skin.
Fraxel cost
You need to know that the final cost of the procedure consists of three main factors, namely: the dimensions of the treatment area, the brand of working equipment, and the number of procedures. Today's prices for one Fraxel rejuvenation procedure in the capital are as follows:
- facial area about – 25,000 rubles;
- neck, face and décolleté – over 40,000 rubles;
- stomach, buttocks, mammary glands are charged 55 rubles per 1 cm²;
- forearm and hand area from RUB 15,000;
- fighting scars costs about 1000 rubles. 1 cm from the length.
Price and clinics
The cost of fractional rejuvenation varies between 5,500 – 44,000 rubles. The price is affected by the area that needs to be affected by the laser beams. The cost of one local anesthesia is 660 rubles.
We indicate the average prices for rejuvenation of different areas of the skin in the table.
Area of influence | Price |
Neck | 16 – 19 thousand rubles. |
Face + chin area | 29 – 30 thousand rubles. |
Face + eyelids + chin | 31 – 32 thousand rubles. |
Neck + décolleté | 33 – 34 thousand rubles. |
Face + décolleté + neck | 57 – 58 thousand rubles. |
Neckline area | 20 – 21 thousand rubles. |
Back of the hands | 12 – 13 thousand rubles. |
Cheeks | 9 – 10 thousand rubles. |
Nose | 5 – 6 thousand rubles. |
Eyebrow area | 3 – 4 thousand rubles. |
"Crow's Feet" | 4 – 5 thousand rubles. |
Whiskey | 5 – 6 thousand rubles. |
Eyelids | 6 – 7 thousand rubles. |
Forehead | 12 – 13 thousand rubles. |
Nasolabial triangle | 5 – 6 thousand rubles. |
Before and After Photos
On the Internet, you can find a considerable number of photos before and after fractional rejuvenation. In the first days, the face takes on a not entirely aesthetic appearance, but after 7-10 days you can see an excellent result. The pictures show the following changes occurring:
- the oval of the face is tightened;
- the skin becomes clean and smooth;
- skin tone is evened out;
- acne scars go away;
- blackheads around the nose lighten up.
After laser rejuvenation, the skin becomes fresher and smoother. Large wrinkles are reduced in size. Severe pigmentation disappears. In any case, the laser effect has a lot of advantages, which can be judged from the photos presented.
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Fractional CO2 laser rejuvenation
Fractional rejuvenation involves the use of several acupressure techniques. One of the most popular is the CO2 laser. This innovative technique was developed by American and Korean doctors. The laser copes well with wrinkles of varying depths, scars and skin irregularities. The device has a high threshold energy density and allows painless penetration into the layers of the dermis.
The CO2 laser works by heating the top layer. Between the processed points, untouched areas are preserved.
Such rejuvenation is superior to old methods, in which the entire surface of the skin is injured. The likelihood of infection and the development of side effects is minimal. The skin recovers quickly, and the effect lasts for several years.
Experts choose fractional CO2 lasers for ease of use, simple controls, the ability to adjust the size of the illuminated area, and high performance. When purchasing a device, it is important to make sure that the manufacturer is reliable.
Cosmetology -~- Face -~- Fraxel: minus 15 years from the passport age. Review
My regular cosmetologist sent me to Fraxel: she doesn’t have a machine, but she thought that Fraxel was very desirable for me.
Having visited this very site, I saw an advertisement about Fraxel at a discount, on sale. I called, talked, and made up my mind. I did it at the Epilaz clinic in Moscow on Novoslobodskaya, cosmetologist Liliana (I recommend it. Excellent hands, extensive experience, a good range of possible procedures. I am a doctor myself, I can evaluate the level of my colleague; Liliana is a professional, you can trust).
Preparation. I came for a consultation (free) and received a detailed plan for skin restoration after. I had to make and buy: 1. Panthenol spray. After the procedure, apply frequently, every 2-4 hours, from days 1 to 3. 2. Bepanthen cream or, if you can find it, Skin-Active cream. Apply frequently, from 3 to 10 days. 3. Triderm cream. In the morning and at night, apply a thin layer, from days 1 to 10 (could not buy, Liliana said, then Akriderm GK ointment.) 4. Do not wet your face for 3 days.
By all appearances, Fraxel was a serious procedure (doctors say “invasive”). There will be regeneration, collagen production and all kinds of renewal. My skin is not in the best condition (if it were in better condition, why do I need Fraxel?), it is overdried, reactivity is reduced, it simply has nothing to regenerate with..
So what do I expect as a result if I have nothing to recover from? Need preparation. I decided to do facial myostimulation (Izojay, stimulate metabolism) and biorevitalization (increase hydration). In a good way, I had to take the full course of Izojey, but I wanted to get Fraxel at a discount, and there was a week left until the end of the promotion. As a result, I managed to do 3 myostimulation and 1 biorevitalization. Not perfect, but better than nothing.
Timing. I arrived at the clinic at 13.00. At 13.15, Emla ointment was applied and left under the film. The cosmetologist warned: the thicker the layer of Emla, the better the pain relief. So I smeared 15 g of Emla on myself. Why endure if you can relieve the pain?
We started at 14.00 and finished at 14.17. I was asked to sit down to “come to my senses,” and I obediently sat down, although I felt completely normal. After sitting for a minute for the sake of decency, I went to pay, sign up for a consultation (after 3 weeks, based on the results, the consultation was free again), said goodbye and left. Those. About an hour and a half passed from entering the clinic to leaving it. Of these, the laser passage itself is 17 minutes.
The procedure itself: well, it hurts, the forehead is easily tolerated, the lips and eyes are more difficult - everything is the same as with mesotherapy. In terms of pain, it is no more painful than mesotherapy, i.e. quite, quite tolerable, it was not difficult not to twitch and not interfere with the beautician making me beautiful. The smell of burnt skin - yes, but the beautician opened the window and turned on the ventilation, so even with my abnormal sensitivity to smells - nothing terrible.
Having finished, Liliana gave me a mirror. I saw an even grid of 6-gons with a diameter of about one and a half centimeters, running across the entire face, end-to-end. A very neat mesh that runs from the forehead, through the eyes, all the way to the ears and ends in the upper third of the neck. The cosmetologist didn’t miss a millimeter anywhere! did not overlap the burn scars with each other. Very carefully. At the same time, Liliana worked very quickly, with a sure hand and excellent technique. I got into it.
Seeing this mesh, I mentally said goodbye to my eyebrows and eyelashes: it seemed that they would definitely fall out, because the skin was literally burned, which meant that the hairs were also damaged. Nothing happened: both eyebrows and eyelashes were not damaged at all.
Afterwards, already at home, it was painful for about 12 hours. Not much, but constantly. The idea of putting my cheek on the pillow seemed wild. At 3 am I finally wanted to sleep more than it hurt
I slept, got up, and the pain went away completely. But the swelling grew so much overnight that the eyes opened as narrow slit. She moved almost by touch, seeing almost nothing. Panthenol gradually relieved the swelling, and 24 hours after the procedure I began to see normally. This was the maximum swelling and did not increase any further. I was very amused by my own face in the “Mongolian” version: round, with thick cheeks and narrow slits of eyes.
This is what the eyes looked like before Fraxel:
And this is a day after, when the swelling began to subside.
My husband, who has long been accustomed to the fact that I come from a cosmetologist, either speckled from mesotherapy, or peeling off in shreds after chemical peeling, this time was horrified (will this go away? and when?). He cooked borscht!! and bought a cake
For the first 5 days, the skin is red, with brown spots (like after peeling). Already an hour after the procedure, the face feels like it is sprinkled with flour and peels off in very small scales. Over time, the scales become larger, you want to brush them off, which is very useful: don’t forget to apply panthenol. You can’t go to work or in front of people in general looking like this.
I saw texts from cosmetology clinics on the Internet, where it is written that after Fraxel you can immediately go to a ball. Yeah right now. Apparently, there are options for the intensity of the procedure; I, according to Liliana, had a “medium” Fraxel, she didn’t do “strong” Fraxel for me, because the skin is thin and there are no indications: “strong” is done, for example, to remove pronounced post-acne scars. Liliana said that in such cases, sometimes it is even necessary to superimpose a grid of hexagonal burns on top of one another. I didn't have such a need.
Perhaps after a “light” Fraxel there are no special changes in appearance, but after a “medium” Fraxel you definitely won’t appear anywhere, at least 5 days, or better yet a week.
Little things that a cosmetologist won’t say. When getting ready for the procedure, it is better to wear something that can be removed without over your head. Pulling off the jumper afterwards is still a pleasure. For the first 12 hours, it really hurts to touch your face.
According to the results. Liliana said that the full effect can be assessed after a month and a half. I started noticing changes around 4 weeks. The skin, burned along the perimeter of the hexagons, begins to shrink inside the hexagons, and so on throughout the face. Nice noticeable lift. Plus, the entire surface of the skin treated (burnt, shallow) with line-by-line laser scanning is being renewed.
Today, 3 months after the procedure. The skin of my upper eyelids has tightened by about 2 mm. Super. Lower eyelids: visually I don’t see a difference, but my regular cosmetologist says that the skin has become denser, it’s easier to work with, and now she can use mesotherapy to reduce my wrinkles and bruises under the eyes.
Forehead: the eyebrows rose, they rose well, the gaze became “open.” I didn’t do Dysport for 2 years, so I had deep horizontal wrinkles on my forehead. They have become less noticeable, and Dysport will remove them completely.
Lower third of the face. The oval has tightened up well, the cheekbones have become more defined, noticeable even to me. The wrinkles on the upper lip disappeared, the skin on the cheeks became fresher and “velvety.”
My regular cosmetologist says that now that the skin is “sewn”, softer techniques (mesotherapy, Izoja myostimulation, microdermabrasion) will work again in full force. In fact, at the age of 50, I postponed facial plastic surgery for at least a year. But Fraxel can be repeated.
This is such a thrill.. I look out of the mirror at 35 years old. I went for the first time (until I got used to it and all the time I caught myself smiling. Just because I looked good. It was worth it - to wait a day for such a result.
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