What is fractional thermolysis

fractional skin resurfacing with laser

Rejuvenation with the help of hardware cosmetology is becoming more and more popular. Such procedures can be compared to plastic surgery in terms of efficiency, but they have significantly fewer contraindications and a shorter recovery period. Fractional thermolysis helps prolong youth with the help of laser exposure to problem areas, activating natural renewal.

The essence of the procedure is the application of a laser to the upper layer of the skin. Grid-shaped microbeams penetrate deep into the dermis, where, under the influence of high temperatures, it is destroyed and tiny burns are formed, which are called microscopic treatment zones. How many will depend on the type of thermolysis. Outwardly, it looks like a lot of microdots.

The cells in the treated area are not damaged, but begin active division, collagen and elastin are produced. This is how natural regeneration takes place.

Types of methods

There are three types of thermolysis, which differ from each other in some respects. We present their characteristics in the form of a table.

laser resurfacing Nanoperforation Fractional rejuvenation
Action Evaporation of the upper layer of the epidermis, it is possible to work with deeper layers of the skin Surface finish Deep penetration into the skin, impact on the epidermis and dermis
Benefit Promotes a healthy complexion, reduces wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, smoothes the micro-relief, especially in the post-acne period, fights acne, removes pigment Helps with age-related or seasonal pigmentation, oily and problematic skin, mimic wrinkles, skin defects Wrinkle correction, face lift, skin tone improvement
Recovery 2-4 weeks 1-2 weeks 2-3 weeks
Result Instant, while lifting continues for another six months The full effect is achieved after three months After 3-4 months
Anesthesia Necessary Conducted at the customer's request Requires anesthesia due to significant pain

The course of each of the methods is indicated by the doctor, depending on the identified problem.

Fraxel exposure types

Each fraxel device has the purpose of solving a specific problem. The effect on the skin depends on the shaft involved in the treatment. Types of lasers:

  • device with an erbium wand - removes stretch marks, acne marks, pigments, bags under the eyes;
  • device with a thulium rod - eliminates very deep wrinkles, acne, deep pores, oily skin;
  • device with erbium and thulium wand - fights with pronounced scars, scars, deep wrinkles;
  • short wavelength device - suitable for treating sensitive areas of the skin.

Indications and contraindications to fractional thermolysis

The considered type of hardware cosmetology addresses many skin imperfections. The main indications are:

  • extensive acne;
  • loss of elasticity, presence of wrinkles, in different parts of the face, neck and décolleté;
  • scars or scars;
  • skin imperfections on the background of acne;
  • blurred oval of the face, loss of tone;
  • increased pigmentation;
  • stretch marks on the abdomen, chest or thighs.

The main contraindications to thermolysis include:

  • oncological diseases;
  • inflammatory processes in the area requiring treatment;
  • chronic diseases in the acute stage;
  • skin pathologies such as herpes, psoriasis and others;
  • hormonal disorders;
  • nervous disorders and stress;
  • open wounds;
  • cosmetic procedures - peeling and mechanical cleaning, which cause damage to the cover;
  • epilepsy;
  • a visit to the solarium or a long stay in the sun;
  • pregnancy and nutrition.

How is the thermolysis procedure performed?

Fractional skin rejuvenation with laser is performed by a doctor in a well-equipped beauty center, respecting sterility. The specialist determines the condition of the skin, identifies the problem, becomes aware of possible contraindications and allergic reactions of the patient. Only then is the desired device selected and the intensity of the laser exposure adjusted.

Procedure technology:

  • half an hour before the start of treatment, an anesthetic in the form of a cream is applied;
  • peeling removes the superficial horny layer of the skin;
  • the problem area of the skin is exposed to a device that emits laser rays;
  • it is possible to pass a zone several times, if required by the indicated problem;
  • apply a moisturizing and soothing cream.

The duration of thermolysis ranges from 20 minutes to one hour. For a better effect, you can repeat a visit to a beautician, letting the skin rest for at least a month.

Special recommendations of cosmetologists

In order for the effect of the procedure to last as long as possible, it is necessary to prepare properly. For this you should:

  1. Avoid alcohol completely.
  2. For some time before visiting a beautician, limit sports.
  3. In the presence of foci of inflammation - to carry out treatment.

Competent preparation, the correct development and rehabilitation technology guarantee a good result.

To maintain the effect obtained, it is necessary to regularly moisturize and nourish the skin, use high-quality cosmetics, use vitamin complexes, use products based on hyaluronic acid.

rehabilitation period

To avoid complications and other negative consequences, it is necessary to take the recovery period seriously. You should familiarize yourself with the following rules, compliance with which is mandatory:

  • use a moisturizer or antibacterial cream at least three times a day;
  • apply cold compresses for swelling;
  • quitting smoking and alcohol;
  • temporarily limit the intake of certain medicines;
  • do not carry out mechanical cleaning or injure the skin;
  • refrain from visiting the solarium, avoid the open sun.

With proper procedure and proper care, rehabilitation will last two to three weeks.

Advantages of the technique

Fractional thermolysis was developed thanks to the achievement of a visible effect with a minimum of contraindications and a relatively low cost. Compared to other cosmetic and plastic procedures, this technique has several advantages:

  • safety - the risk of complications is practically absent;
  • short rehabilitation period;
  • improvement of the skin at the cellular level;
  • noticeable rejuvenation;
  • eliminate unsightly defects and skin imperfections;
  • stable result, at least three years, depending on the problem to be solved;
  • power regulation of the apparatus according to individual characteristics;
  • painless, lack of discomfort;
  • suitable for people of all ages and all skin types;
  • the possibility of processing different parts of the body: face, back, arms, abdomen, decollete.

What can go wrong?

Although the procedure is considered safe, a number of adverse effects can be seen. Most often this happens due to a violation of the technology or conditions for its implementation or a low qualification of a specialist. Possible side effects include:

  • inflammatory processes due to the penetration of infection;
  • acne;
  • swelling that does not go away for more than three days;
  • hypermelanosis against the background of inflammation;
  • feeling of dryness and tightness of the skin;
  • severe burning;
  • subcutaneous bleeding.

Swelling (especially the eyelids) and a slight burning sensation are normal phenomena that can last a couple of days and then disappear.

Patient feedback on fractional thermolysis

We present some testimonials from real patients who have undergone a course of fractional thermolysis procedures.

First review, female, 45 years old

I did two fractional rejuvenation procedures. Since the skin is thin and dry, the beautician advised me to limit myself to such a number of sessions. At first I doubted, I thought that the desired effect did not work, but in the end I was satisfied. After the first visit, a pleasant metamorphosis was noticed, greeted for some years. Therefore, it definitely makes sense to use this method.

Second review, female, 28 years old

A year ago, I received a not very deep, but noticeable scar on my forehead. I decided to switch to laser resurfacing. According to reviews, I chose a clinic with new equipment and an acceptable price list. When exposed to the laser, I felt a slight tingling, but overall it was comfortable. The defect disappeared as soon as the skin healed, the ointment was applied for the first time.

Third review, female, 29 years old

The nano-perforation helped me get rid of stretch marks after my baby was born. I will not say that the result appeared immediately, I had to undergo a full recovery course - only five procedures. After the chest started to look much better, the stretch marks disappeared.

Answers to questions

Let's consider some of the more interesting issues related to fractional thermolysis.

What is ablative and non-ablative photothermolysis?

The difference between these types is their effect on the skin and the prediction of the desired result. In the first case, the laser only penetrates the superficial layers of the epidermis, causing it to evaporate. Suitable if the problem is on the surface.

The non-ablative method is characterized by a profound effect on the dermis, renewing the skin from the inside. It is used for severe age-related changes.

Which device is better ehm: fractional yag or co2 laser?

The beams of the er: yag laser, unlike the co2 apparatus, are unable to penetrate deeply into the skin. At the same time, the thermal damage is much weaker, but the laser is significantly less in terms of er: yag collagen production.

When can makeup be applied after the procedure?

Until the scab completely disappears, it is necessary to abandon decorative cosmetics. Instead, you can use natural cosmetics with masking properties.

summing up

Despite the fact that the fractional thermolysis procedure has its drawbacks, it is quite effective. Due to laser fractionation, many pronounced defects can be removed without significant harm to health. Furthermore, hardware cosmetology is currently so developed that a specific laser is selected to solve each specific problem. It will make the procedure comfortable and painless.