For rejuvenation, CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers are used, whose radiation is predominantly absorbed by water. They differ in wavelength and in the degree of energy absorption, which determines the technology of the procedure. CO-2 devices are used for ablative rejuvenation and erbium - for non-ablative ones.
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 tissue but does not damage the skin surface. This is possible due to the different wavelengths of lasers, as well as the fact that the epidermis contains less water (10-15%) than the deep layers of the skin (70-75%).
Carbon dioxide lasers have the longest wavelength of any medical laser available at 10, 600 nm. These 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 aid of these lasers, capable of reaching the superficial layer of the skin.
The Erbium laser wavelengths range from 1064 to 2940 nm. The clinics use the Palomar Lux 1540 laser, whose wavelength is 1540 nm and the depth of tissue penetration is up to 2 mm. These rays are less absorbed by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damaging it. The laser action starts 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 work fractionally, that is, 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 launched throughout 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 laser action, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative - open, non-ablative - closed technology. These columns are located at some distance from each other due to fractional action. 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 superficial wrinkles, pigmentation and decreased elasticity and firmness of the skin.
The laser acts mainly on the upper layers of the dermis, it does not penetrate deeply, but reaches the superficial layer. Thanks to this, the skin renews itself to the full depth of penetration of the beam (up to 1 mm) and the obvious correction of superficial imperfections. To get a good effect, only 1 procedure is needed. The recovery period after the procedure is 5-7 days.
Ablative rejuvenation, in particular DOT therapy, is indicated for those who want a quick result with a minimum period of rehabilitation.
For whom is non-ablative rejuvenation suitable?
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.
Laser operation 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 needed, usually 3-4. Due to the deeper penetration, a complete restructuring of the tissues takes place, which gives a noticeable lifting effect.
Non-ablative rejuvenation, in particular fractional photothermolysis, is suitable for those who wish to obtain a noticeable result without intensive exposure and rehabilitation period.