Photorejuvenation of the face - what is it, pros and cons, before and after photos, indications and contraindications

Cosmetology offers various methods of getting rid of cosmetic imperfections and keeping the skin youthful. One of the new methods that appeared just a few years ago is face photorejuvenation. To understand what it is, to get acquainted with the pros and cons of the method, you need to understand the principle of its action on the skin.

Photos of patients before and after the procedure demonstrate the effectiveness of this procedure, but it is important to understand how this is achieved.

Photorejuvenation - the essence, mechanism of action of the procedure

Photorejuvenation is the effect on the skin with light pulses of various frequencies, which are generated by a special apparatus. A pulsating broadband intense light flux devoid of the ultraviolet component is used.

The required light wavelength and duration of irradiation is selected by a specialist depending on the problem being solved and the individual characteristics of the patient.

Photorejuvenation allows:

1. Even out skin color, whiten it. Following the laws of physics, light areas of the skin reflect light, while dark areas - age spots, freckles, spider veins and other skin color changes - on the contrary, attract it. A light pulse generated by a special apparatus is able to penetrate 2-3 cm deep into the epidermis. Deep gentle heating destroys melanin, thereby reducing pigmentation, and also shrinks capillaries, removing vascular defects.
2. Restore skin elasticity and firmness. Under the influence of light flashes, the synthesis of building proteins of the skin - collagen and elastin - is enhanced, the regeneration of skin cells is enhanced, biochemical reactions are accelerated, aging processes are slowed down, the activity of the sebaceous glands is normalized. This leads to an increase in skin turgor, smoothing of wrinkles and scars, lifting of the face oval, disappearance of oily sheen or dry skin, narrowing of pores, and elimination of flaking.
3. Provide a healing effect. Intense light irradiation destroys bacteria, accelerates the healing of skin lesions, fights acne and herpes recurrence, and eliminates rashes.

Advantages and disadvantages of the technique

It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the positive and negative consequences of the procedure before applying it.

Benefits:

• effective and lasting improvement of skin condition;
• the ability to use for any areas of the skin prone to aging - hands, décolleté, neck, etc.;
• the absence of traumatic skin damage and, as a result, the absence of edema, redness, unwanted scars and scars;
• painlessness of the procedure or minor pain;
• short session duration - about 30 minutes;
• it is possible to combine it with other anti-aging procedures (masks, peels, etc.);
• comfortable rehabilitation period - there is no need for sick leave, hospitalization, a break in work and home work. The constraints imposed are easy to enforce;
• no restrictions on the use of cosmetics.

Disadvantages:

• contraindicated in a number of diseases (diabetes mellitus, oncology, etc.);
• the need to find a qualified cosmetologist - the method has been developed recently, there are few experienced specialists. An unskilled procedure may result in a burn;
• the duration of the full course due to the need for a break between sessions - up to six months;
• time limits. The sessions are held during the period of inactive sun, from October to April;
• the need for sun protection;
• with sensitive skin, temporary irritation is possible;
• the skin renewal process takes time, so the rejuvenation effect will be noticeable no earlier than in a month and a half;
• high cost compared to other cosmetic anti-aging procedures.

How long does the effect last?

By stimulating the internal processes of rejuvenation (activation of collagen and elastin synthesis, acceleration of biochemical processes, increased regeneration of dermal cells), the effect of photorejuvenation lasts from six months to 4 years. The duration of this period depends on the age of the patient, the characteristics of the skin, the thoroughness of following the recommendations of the cosmetologist.

To maintain the effect, the radiation sessions are recommended to be repeated periodically.

Laser photorejuvenation

The source of light pulses is a neodymium laser. It allows you to use waves of different lengths, selecting them depending on the problem being solved.

The advantage is also the possibility of a point deep (6-8 mm) impact, which makes the laser an effective tool for coagulation and capillary emptying. Precise, low-traumatic skin resurfacing leads to its intensive renewal.

IPL technique

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) - intense light pulses. IPL photorejuvenation is an effect on the skin with a stream of light of a certain length and high intensity using special equipment. IPL equipment allows simultaneous removal of vascular and pigmented skin defects.

Elos

A distinctive feature of the ElOS technique (Electro-Optical Synergy - electro-optical synergy) is the combination of two types of energy. The effect of current pulses is added to the effect of light pulses, which enhance the effect of renewal.

Collagen photorejuvenation

This technique uses collagen lamp radiation in the red range. Red light has the ability to penetrate into the skin to the layer of fatty tissue and be converted into energy of photosynthesis, stimulating collagen production.

LED technique

LED (light-emitting diode) - LED therapy. Has minimal thermal effect. Infrared and ultraviolet rays are excluded. Using light of different colors, i.e. different wavelengths of light waves, the specialist acts on different layers of the skin, achieving the desired result.

Indications

Facial photorejuvenation (what is it, the pros and cons before and after the procedure) does not have the capabilities of plastic surgery or laser resurfacing. Therefore, before resorting to this cosmetic procedure, you should find out how much the skin condition will change, and whether it is worth using this method.

It will not remove pronounced age-related changes (swollen face oval, saggy skin, deep wrinkles) and will not relieve large scars.

The indications for photorejuvenation are:

• decreased skin tone;
• small wrinkles;
• small scars, scars and other superficial defects;
• uneven complexion;
• freckles, age spots;
• post-acne, rosacea;
• rosacea, spider veins;
• enlarged pores;
• excessively oily or dry skin.

Age restrictions

Age restrictions are related to the purpose of the method. To get rid of freckles and age spots, the procedure is allowed to be carried out even in childhood. But the use for the purpose of rejuvenation is justified only after the first signs of wilting appear, i.e. on average after 30 years.

During this period, when the first wrinkles and other age-related changes already appear, but are still poorly expressed, photorejuvenation is most effective.

Experts talk about the advisability of using the method until about 55 years old, in the future the method is ineffective. But it is necessary to remember the individual characteristics of each patient, and be sure to consult with an experienced specialist before resorting to photorejuvenation.

Professional equipment

Devices for photorejuvenation are produced by various manufacturers.

• IPL quantum, made in the USA. One of the best modern devices. Multifunctional. Combines high power with comfort and safety. It is possible to select an individual processing program using a computer;
• "Palomar", made in the USA. A whole line of laser action devices. The design provides for a double system of cooling and filtration, which makes their use painless and safe;
• "Lumenis M22", made in Israel. Combines IPL and laser capabilities through multiple modules. 9 light filters allow you to take into account the individual characteristics of the patient. Three sizes of light attachments have been developed for the convenience of processing. The possibility of deep cooling is provided for the patient's comfort;
• "DEKA", made in Italy. A popular line of instruments with a good reputation. Combination of high power and safety. A wide range of actions. Comfortable to use thanks to the cooling system. The DEKA SynchroReplay model is distinguished by a combination of two laser technologies: classical and photolaser. The model provides the highest pulse frequency;
• "Yakhroma-Med", produced in the Russian Federation. Laser apparatus (copper vapor laser). Uses green and yellow light. It is possible to install individual programs. It takes about 30 minutes to start. Differs in a high working time - 1500 hours. It has a point effect, without heating the neighboring areas, therefore it is painless and free of side effects.

Apparatus for home use

Apparatus for photorejuvenation at home are available:

• "Ilegant", made in China, price about $ 80. Compact device in the form of a disk, weight 130 g. The laser pulsation system processes alternately green and yellow light. Irradiation is carried out from a distance of about 2-3 cm. It brightens superficial pigmentation, increases skin elasticity. The procedure is painless;
• A device with galvanic currents m775 from Gezatone, made in Taiwan, price about $ 50. Uses a combination of galvanic currents and vibration to achieve high efficiency through deep penetration. There are 4 operating modes: cleaning, massage, nutrition, lifting. For the procedures, special serums have been developed. Two power levels are provided, low level is suitable for sensitive skin;
• "Silk'n Reju", made in Israel, price about $ 180. Portable device using LED technology. Automatic shutdown when heated to 41⁰C. Produces red light, penetration depth of about 2 mm. Cleans the skin, evens out the tone of the face, narrows the pores, reduces the depth of wrinkles, slows down aging;
• "Skin Laser" by Iluminage, made in Israel, price about $ 1000. One of the first laser models approved for use without specialist supervision. Safety is ensured by automatic shutdown after 30 seconds if the device is not in use. Convenience is provided by the ergonomic shape of the case and the touch panel. The light wavelength is fixed and cannot be changed.The wavelength is optimal for improving complexion and reducing wrinkles;
• "Helios 3", made in the Russian Federation, price about $ 5000. There are two modes of operation: professional and simple, for home use. Based on ElOS methodology. Photorejuvenation and photoepilation are possible. The set includes 6 filters for various procedures. Destroys pigment and vascular defects, tightens the oval of the face, heals acne, smoothes scars, improves skin tone, destroys unwanted vegetation.

Preparing for the session

Facial photorejuvenation requires proper preparation, so first you need to understand what it is. This deep effect on the skin has its pros and cons.

To get the maximum benefit and minimize possible negative consequences, several rules must be followed before and after the procedure.

Before carrying out photorejuvenation, you must:

• get detailed professional advice from an experienced beautician. The patient has the right to familiarize himself with the documents confirming the qualifications of the consultant and the quality of the equipment;
• refuse sunbathing 3-4 weeks before the session;
• exclude the use of self-tanning for the same period;
• refuse peeling 2 weeks before the session;

  

• do not visit the sauna and pool for 1-2 weeks before the session;
• a few days before the procedure, you should stop taking antibiotics, aspirin, preparations with vitamin A, ibuprofen, diclofenac.

Compliance with the recommendations should be treated carefully and conscientiously to avoid complications. For example, taking the above medications can cause bruising from the light pulse.

Stages of the procedure in the salon

For photorejuvenation:

• the patient lies down on the couch, taking a comfortable position;
• the treated area is thoroughly cleaned with a tonic;
• special glasses are worn to protect the cornea of ​​the eyes (maybe a bandage or a mask);

  

• to protect against heat and improve the permeability of light pulses, a special gel is evenly applied to the treatment area;
• using the emitter, the skin is processed with point light pulses, the characteristics of which are selected by a specialist depending on the problem being solved, the patient's characteristics, etc. To start anti-aging processes, two passes are required: the first series of flashes treats the epidermis, the second - the deep layers of the skin;
• processing is carried out slowly and accurately, the duration of processing is from 10 minutes to an hour, depending on the task of the procedure and the surface to be treated. There may be a slight burning or tingling sensation;
• after the end of the session, the glasses are removed. The remains of the gel are carefully removed. A soothing gel or cream is applied to the treated area.

With increased skin sensitivity, local anesthesia is possible.

Home appliance instructions

Photorejuvenation for the face - what it is, the pros and cons, before and after, the rules for conducting at home: all these questions should be answered before starting home procedures.

Procedure:

1. Carry out the procedure in the autumn-winter period.
2. Carefully study the instructions for the device.
3. Carry out a trial exposure - one test flash at the site of the intended treatment to check the sensitivity of the skin. If after a day there is no burning sensation, severe redness and other unpleasant sensations, then home procedures are acceptable.
4. It is necessary to follow all the rules of preparation: give up tanning in two weeks, do not take medications, exclude the sauna, etc.
5. Cleanse face with an alcohol-free tonic.
6. If necessary (if indicated in the instructions) apply a special gel.
7. Protect your eyes with special glasses.
8. Carry out the processing pointwise. The nozzle moves along the massage lines.Only a single exposure to one area is allowed per session. The exposure time is according to the instructions.
9. Take off the glasses, carefully remove the remaining gel.
10. Apply a regenerating cream to the skin.
11. Do not wet the treated skin area for 24 hours.
12. It is necessary to follow all the rules of skin care after photorejuvenation (exclude sunburn, sauna, alcohol, etc.).

Feelings during the procedure

During photorejuvenation, the patient may feel:

• burning;
• tingling sensation;
• sensation of flashes of light (muted, thanks to goggles).

The intensity and pain of sensations are individual. They depend on the patient's pain threshold level. With increased sensitivity, skin anesthesia is possible.

How many procedures need to be done, frequency

The required number of photorejuvenation sessions is determined by the cosmetologist and depends on the patient's age, individual characteristics, skin condition, type of defects being corrected, etc. The effect of rejuvenation becomes noticeable on average one month after the procedure, when the initiated processes of regeneration of the dermis lead to a visual result.

To obtain a lasting effect, professionals recommend a full course - from 3 to 7 procedures with an interval of 7-14 days.

Only emerging wrinkles, weak "crow's feet" are corrected in three sessions, deep wrinkles will require more procedures. The need for a break is explained by the intensity of the impact, after which the skin needs time to rest and recover.

To maintain positive changes, an annual repetition of the course is recommended to stimulate anti-aging processes.

Skin care after the procedure

Skin after phototherapy needs restorative care.

It is necessary:

• within 5-7 days, apply to the treated areas regenerating creams or ointments prescribed by a specialist ("Bepanten", etc.);
• to cleanse the face, use cosmetic milk and tonics without alcohol;
• drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day;
• drink a vitamin and mineral complex;
• for at least 14-15 days before going outside, use a cream with an SPF of at least 30 (in bright sun, at least 50).

Restrictive measures:

• sunbathing is prohibited for two weeks;
• for the same period, you should abandon the sauna and bath due to unwanted overheating, from visiting the pool due to the treatment of water with chlorine-containing compounds;
• steam baths for the face and cosmetics containing alcohol are contraindicated;
• it is recommended to limit, and it is better to give up smoking and alcohol for at least a week.

Don't miss the most popular column article: Plasmolifting of the face - what it is, how it is carried out, results, photos before and after the procedure.

Possible consequences after the procedure

According to the reviews of those who have undergone photorejuvenation, it has practically no negative consequences - provided that the recommendations for preparing for the session and subsequent care are followed.

After the procedure, the following may appear:

• slight redness and irritation of the skin immediately after treatment. Disappear after 2-3 hours;
• itching and burning sensation. They pass in a few hours;
• darkening of age spots, later a crust may form. This is an indicator of the destruction of the pigment. Within 5-7 days, the pigmentation dissolves, the crusts fall off, revealing a healthy layer of skin.

With sensitive skin, the side effects are more severe and may be uncomfortable. But, as a rule, they are eliminated without additional measures after 1-2 weeks. According to statistics, negative consequences are observed in 2%. An extremely rare complication is phytodermatosis - the appearance of rashes of various types.

An unqualified session or the use of low-quality equipment can lead to serious consequences.

May appear:

• severe redness;
• a strong burning sensation;
• bruising;
• swelling;
• burns.

Facial photorejuvenation involves a very careful selection of a specialist and clinic for the procedure. It is necessary to find out in detail from a specialist what it is, the pros and cons, the subtleties of care before and after the procedure.

Combination with other cosmetic procedures

The positive property of photorejuvenation is its compatibility with other procedures. A correctly selected complex can enhance and consolidate the anti-aging effect.

Allowed:

• cosmetic masks;
• botox injections;
• peels;
• mesotherapy;
• biorevitalization.

The time of the procedures must be agreed with the beautician. On average, this is 2-3 weeks after photorejuvenation, but, for example, biorevitalization can be done almost simultaneously.

Contraindications

Contraindications to photorejuvenation may be permanent or temporary.

Absolute (permanent) contraindications:

• oncology;
• blood diseases (low clotting, etc.);
• endocrine system diseases;
• diabetes;
• skin diseases - psoriasis, eczema, etc.;
• eye pathology - cataract, glaucoma, etc .;
• moles, birthmarks;
• natural dark skin tone;
• increased hairiness caused by hormonal disruption;
• old age.

Relative (temporary) contraindications:

• period of solar activity. The optimal period for the procedures is from October to April;
• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• a tan. You must wait at least two weeks after sunbathing or applying self-tanning;
• exacerbation of herpes. The rash must be treated;
• increased body temperature;
• taking antibiotics, aspirin, drugs with vitamin A, ibuprofen, diclofenac;
• damage to the skin (scratches, wounds, etc.).

Salon selection and prices

Considering the possibility of injuries due to an unskilled session, the choice of a salon should be taken seriously. It is better to opt for a salon with a good reputation and experience. Reviews on thematic forums will help you make a choice. At a preliminary consultation with a dermatologist, it is necessary to clarify all the nuances of the upcoming procedure, all possible consequences.

The patient has the right to familiarize himself with the equipment certificate, dermatologist license, clinic patents. High-quality equipment from reliable manufacturers and an experienced qualified specialist are a guarantee of success.

The cost of photorejuvenation is quite high. The specific amount depends on the class of equipment, the area of ​​the treated area, the type of treatment and other factors. Too low a price (for Moscow it is below 500 rubles per flash) indicates a low quality of equipment. Approximate prices in Moscow salons:

Prices in the regions are much lower. The cost of face photorejuvenation in the regional city is 3000-8000 rubles, the price of one flash is 130-400 rubles.

Facial photorejuvenation is a rather expensive procedure. What it is, the pros and cons of the technique, the equipment used - all these aspects should be studied in detail when choosing a salon and a specialist. Photos before and after the procedure will allow you to evaluate its effectiveness. But the final decision on photorejuvenation should be made only after consulting a professional.

Video recordings of the facial rejuvenation procedure

Face photo rejuvenation procedure, reviews, results before and after:

IPL Quantum device - facial rejuvenation salon procedure:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJqbnqOtSUE