CO2 (carbon dioxide) and erbium lasers are used for rejuvenation, the radiation of which is mainly absorbed by water. 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, while erbium - for non-ablation.
With ablative rejuvenation, the laser beam acts not only on the deeper layers of the skin, but also on the surface. 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 because the epidermis contains less water (10-15%) than in the deeper 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 in water, so they react even with small amounts of water in the epidermis. Therefore, ablation techniques are performed with the help of lasers that can affect the surface layer of the skin.
The wavelength of the erbium laser ranges from 1064 to 2940 nm. Clinics use the Palomar Lux 1540 laser with a wavelength of 1540 nm and a penetration depth of up to 2 mm. Such rays are less absorbed by water and therefore pass through the epidermis without damaging it. The laser action begins already in the deeper 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 operate in fractions, e. g. ი. The beam is divided into microwaves in the form of a grid. Because of this, only 20% of the surface is damaged and the recovery process begins on the entire volume of the skin. This effect reduces the possibility of heat damage, unpleasant results in the form of scars and scars, and also increases the speed of tissue recovery.
The laser action produces a coagulation column, in the case of ablation technology - open, non-ablation - closed. These columns are located at a certain distance from each other due to fractional action. Cells around the coagulation zone experience heat shock, which activates metabolic processes and the formation of new cells. Thanks to this, a lifting effect is achieved, the skin is rejuvenated.
For whom is ablative rejuvenation suitable?
Abrasive rejuvenation is a highly effective method to solve problems such as superficial wrinkles, pigmentation and reduced skin elasticity and density.
The laser works mainly in the upper layers of the dermis, does not penetrate deeply, but affects the surface layer. This allows the skin to be renewed to the full depth of beam penetration (up to 1 mm) and the 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, particularly DOT therapy, is suitable for those who want to get fast results with a minimal rehabilitation period.
For whom is non-ablative rejuvenation suitable?
Non-ablative rejuvenation is also one of the most effective techniques for eliminating wrinkles, for skin lifting, for rejuvenation, for improving skin quality, for treating pigmentation and other skin imperfections.
The action of the laser only in the deep layers leads to the fact that the rehabilitation period after the procedure is practically non-existent and is only 2-3 days. To achieve a similar result to ablative rejuvenation, a larger number of procedures will be required, usually 3-4. Due to the deep penetration, the tissues are completely restructured, 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 a period of intense exposure and rehabilitation.