CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers, whose radiation is mostly absorbed by water, are used for rejuvenation. They differ from each other in wavelength and degree of energy absorption, which determines the technology of the procedure. CO-2 devices are used for ablative rejuvenation, and erbium - for non-ablative.
In ablative rejuvenation, the laser beam acts not only on the deep layers of the skin, but also on the surface. In 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 laser, 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 with a small amount of water that is in the epidermis. Therefore, with the help of such lasers, ablative techniques are performed, which can affect the surface layer of the skin.
The wavelength of erbium lasers ranges from 1064 to 2940 nm. Palomar Lux 1540 laser with a wavelength of 1540 nm and a depth of penetration into tissues up to 2 mm is used in clinics. Such rays are less absorbed by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damage. The laser action starts 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 fractionally, ie. the beam is divided into micro-beams in the form of a grid. As a result, only 20% of the surface is damaged, and the recovery process starts 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 speed of tissue regeneration.
As a result of laser action, a coagulation column is formed, in the case of ablative technology - open, non-ablative - closed. These pillars are located at a certain distance from each other due to partial action. The cells around the coagulation zone go through heat shock, which activates metabolic processes and the production of new cells. Thanks to that, a lifting effect is achieved, the skin is rejuvenated.
Who benefits from ablative rejuvenation?
Ablative rejuvenation is a very effective method for solving problems such as shallow wrinkles, pigmentation and reducing the elasticity and firmness of the skin.
The laser acts mainly in the upper layers of the dermis, does not penetrate deeply, but acts on the surface layer. Thanks to this, the skin is renewed to the full depth of air penetration (up to 1 mm) and obvious correction of surface imperfections. Only 1 procedure is needed to achieve a good effect. The recovery period after the procedure is 5-7 days.
Ablative rejuvenation, especially DOT therapy, is suitable for those who want to achieve a quick result with a minimum period of rehabilitation.
Who benefits from non-ablative rejuvenation?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is also one of the most effective techniques for removing wrinkles, lifting 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 lasts only 2-3 days. A number of procedures, usually 3-4, will be required to achieve results similar to ablative rejuvenation. Due to the deeper penetration, there is a complete restructuring of the tissue, 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 a period of rehabilitation.