For rejuvenation, CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers are used, the radiation of which is predominantly 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 ones - 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 deep layers of the skin (70-75%).
Carbon dioxide lasers have the longest wavelength of 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 affecting the surface layer of the skin.
Erbium laser wavelengths range from 1064 to 2940 nm. The clinics use the Palomar Lux 1540 laser, the wavelength of which is 1540 nm, and the depth of penetration into tissues is up to 2 mm. Such rays are less absorbed by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damaging it. Laser action begins already in 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 fractionally, i. e. the beam is subdivided into microbeams in the form of a grid. Due to this, only 20% of the surface is damaged, and the recovery process is launched throughout 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 rate of tissue repair.
As a result of laser action, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative technology - open, non-ablative - closed. These columns are located at a certain distance from each other due to fractional action. The cells around the coagulation zone undergo 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 highly effective method for solving problems such as shallow wrinkles, pigmentation, and a decrease in skin elasticity and firmness.
The laser works mainly in the upper layers of the dermis, does not penetrate deeply, but affects the surface layer. Thanks to this, the skin is renewed to 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 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 minimum rehabilitation period.
Who is non-ablative rejuvenation suitable for?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is also one of the most effective techniques for eliminating wrinkles, lifting 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 rejuvenation, a larger number of procedures will be required, usually 3-4. Due to deeper penetration, a complete restructuring of tissues occurs, which gives a noticeable lifting effect.
Non-ablative rejuvenation, in particular fractional photothermolysis, is suitable for those who want to get a noticeable result without intensive exposure and rehabilitation period.