Have you ever wondered how an ablative laser works and how it can help solve your skin problems? This advanced technology, known as the fractional ablative CO2 laser, is used in aesthetic medicine to reduce wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks and pigmentation. In this article we will explain how the ablative laser works and help you understand how it can improve the appearance of your skin. Curious? Read on and discover the power of the ablative laser!
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What is a fractional ablative laser?
The fractional ablative CO2 laser is an advanced device that emits a concentrated beam of light of a specific wavelength. It works invasively, penetrating into the deeper layers of the dermis. Its main purpose is to vaporise the water contained in the skin tissues, which leads to controlled tissue damage. The essence of this treatment is the creation of micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulate the cells to regenerate and produce new collagen. As a result, the skin becomes firmer, more elastic and more youthful.How does a fractional ablative laser work?
A fractional ablative laser works selectively, ideally leaving healthy skin between the treated areas. During the procedure, the laser beam penetrates deep into the skin, heating the water present in the cells. The water and skin tissue are then vaporised, which causes micro-injuries within the skin. Importantly, however, it does not damage the entire skin surface, which speeds up the healing process and minimises the risk of complications.Ablative vs non-ablative technology
In aesthetic medicine, the fractional ablative laser and the fractional non-ablative laser represent two different approaches to improving the condition of the skin. The key difference between them lies in the degree of intervention in the skin structure. The fractional ablative laser, which works on the principle of light energy being absorbed by water in the skin, leads to vaporisation of the tissue. It damages both the superficial epidermis and the deeper layers of the dermis, which stimulates regeneration and the production of collagen - a protein that is key to skin firmness and elasticity. Non-ablative technology, on the other hand, is less invasive. The fractional non-ablative laser causes microscopic damage in the deeper layers of the skin without breaching the integrity of the epidermis. This keeps recovery time and the risk of complications to a minimum, while still stimulating tissue regeneration and collagen production. The choice between these two technologies depends on the patient's individual needs, the type of skin problem and the recommendation of the aesthetic medicine doctor.Ablative laser treatments - indications
Ablative laser treatments are popular procedures in aesthetic medicine that allow effective skin regeneration and the reduction of visible problems such as wrinkles, scars or pigmentation. Using different types of lasers, aesthetic medicine doctors can act precisely on the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving its appearance. Treatment with a fractional ablative laser is one of the more popular solutions, allowing the removal of acne scars as well as the reduction of post-surgical scars or stretch marks.Indications for ablative laser treatments
- removal of acne scars and other scars
- wrinkle removal
- removal of pigmentation and pigment spots
- acne treatment
- stretch mark removal
- removal of certain skin lesions
What an ablative laser treatment involves
A fractional ablative CO2 laser treatment is precise and carefully carried out by qualified medical staff. Before the treatment begins, the patient's skin is thoroughly cleansed and a local anaesthetic is applied. The doctor then applies the fractional laser beam to specific areas of the skin, targeting microscopic points. This process causes controlled damage to the skin while stimulating repair processes and collagen production. During the treatment the patient may feel a gentle sensation of warmth or tingling on the skin, but pain is minimal thanks to the use of local anaesthesia. After the treatment, mild redness and swelling of the skin may occur, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days of the procedure.Results and skin recovery after the treatment
After a fractional ablative CO2 laser treatment, a number of positive effects on the skin can be observed. The skin's regeneration process is stimulated, which leads to a reduction in acne scars, wrinkles and pigmentation. The fractional CO2 laser works deep in the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. The effects are visible after just one treatment, although most patients need a course of treatments to achieve optimal results.Contraindications to ablative laser treatments
Although the treatment is safe, there are several contraindications to this type of treatment.- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active skin infection
- Strong suntan
- Tendency to scarring
- Autoimmune diseases (psoriasis, lupus erythematosus)
- Photosensitising medicines and supplements
- Tendency to develop pigmentation
- Very dark skin tone
- Skin diseases
- Cancer