The modern arsenal of laser technologies expands the possibilities of working on aesthetic problems in the cosmetology field. Each method has exceptional properties due to physical parameters.
The choice of laser therapy method depends on the goals that the patient sets before us. To determine the most effective technique, knowledge of the mechanisms of work, indications and contraindications for the use of a particular technology is required.
Dermatologist, cosmetologist, international trainer in topical (non-invasive) cosmetology Oksana Shatrova shared her knowledge in the field of CO2 laser application. In the article estet-portal.com you can get acquainted in detail with the characteristics of the carbon dioxide laser.
Tell us about the mechanism of CO2 laser operation
N.N: There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative. When using non-ablative lasers, thermal damage to the skin occurs without its mechanical destruction. Laser ablation is understood as the removal of a piece of living tissue under the direct influence of laser radiation. CO2 (carbon dioxide) lasers allow you to control the depth of exposure and the thermal effect.
Tissue destruction occurs with the help of coagulation, the thermal effect created around the coagulation zone stimulates cells to regenerate. Due to the splitting of the beam into many separate ones, coagulation is created with areas of intact tissues. This principle ensures the acceleration of the recovery period and the achievement of the desired result.
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When using a device for fractional photothermolysis, we can: change the filling of the laser effect, use different pulse shapes, with which we can exclude thermal effects. To determine the tactics, it is important to take into account the preparation of the skin for the procedure, the category of the patient, age, the ability of the skin to regenerate, indications. For example, in the case of pigmentation, the thermal effect will stimulate all cells, including melanocytes.
Expected effects from the use of carbon dioxide laser
O.N.: The use of a carbon dioxide laser makes it possible to:
1. Lifting the skin of the upper eyelid.
Especially the effect is noticeable when lifting the skin of the eyelids. Some patients will require multiple treatments. The most striking effect is achieved when the method is combined with the introduction of botulinum toxin.
2. Wrinkle removal.
Small wrinkles can be removed after one procedure, as well as the severity of deeper wrinkles on the skin of the face can be reduced. Conducting several sessions allows you to get a more pronounced result. Additional methods in the form of injection methods and the introduction of botulinum toxin are used in the most difficult clinical situations.
3. Improve the elasticity of the skin of the abdomen.
4. Impact on scars.
Procedure preparation and management
O.Sh.: When CO2 laser radiation hits the skin, it is absorbed by water, so it is important to work on sufficient hydration of the skin to achieve the desired result. If the superficial layers of the skin are dehydrated, then I prefer topical methods. In case of impoverishment of the deep layers, the complex use of injection and topical methods of skin moisturizing is recommended.
One of the important moments in preparing the skin before the – moisturizing, saturation with antioxidants.
The use of mesotherapy with laser exposure is a controversial issue due to increased production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Antioxidants help in preparing the skin for ablation and its subsequent regeneration.
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You should also be aware of the adverse effects of stress and emotional lability of the patient on the outcome of the procedure.
Contraindications for the use of CO2 laser
O.Sh.: Acne in the acute stage and other inflammatory skin diseases are relative contraindications to the laser technique. Such conditions require delaying the procedure until a period of remission.
I always take into account the wishes of the patient and his expectations from the procedure, compare them with my predictions regarding the result from the application of a particular technique, and make a decision on the choice of method. If the expectations of the doctor and the patient do not match, then an alternative method of treatment must be selected.
Complications after using CO2 laser
O.Sh.: The most common complication – hyperpigmentation. Strengthening of the inflammatory process occurs as a result of incorrect preparation of the skin and maintenance of the rehabilitation period. Patients may be concerned about the insufficient aesthetic result, in this case, it should be remembered that the frequency of the procedure depends on the clinical situation and is strictly individual. Please note that when using the CO2 laser, it is necessary to take breaks.
The regenerative resources of the skin are not limitless.
Management of the patient in the rehabilitation period
O.Sh.: Careful monitoring of the passage of all stages of recovery after the procedure with a CO2 laser is necessary. The frequency of visits to the doctor depends on the depth of exposure, the psycho-emotional status of the patient, and the individual characteristics of the course of the rehabilitation period. I prefer to prescribe preparations that moisturize, soften, enhance regeneration.
Strictly according to indications, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. Given that an adequate and correct amount of damage has been done, the skin should undergo a repair process without the use of steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Thank you for staying with estet-portal.com. Read other interesting articles in the "Cosmetology" section. You may be interested in The use of CO2 lasers in the rejuvenation of the periorbital zone
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