Resurfacing treatments with fractional lasers.

Resurfacing treatments with fractional lasers – it is not as easy as it seems to be. It only takes moments, and after a while, we see great results. It happens when all 3 components of laser therapy are met: The operator has sufficient knowledge and experience. Good equipment is used, and the parameters used are individually matched to the customer’s needs. The client is carefully selected for the proposed treatment. If it is already ensured, it is important to prevent complications throughout the treatment process. A patch test is necessary, i.e. a skin test, performed at least 24 hours before the procedure, and for darker phototypes, even 3 days earlier. During the initial consultation, the client’s condition should be assessed in terms of factors that may predispose him to adverse events and side effects. A detailed medical history obtained before the proper consultation is necessary to predict these risks and select the right candidates, and to identify all possible contraindications. A history of poor wound healing or keloids may be one of the contraindications. Likewise, clients with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing an infection. A proper, post-treatment skincare procedure is necessary to achieve quick healing while minimizing the risk of infection, and it is necessary to clarify it and document its delivery to the client. Here, I will only mention the need for gentle cleansing, the use of protective ointments, including high SPF sunscreen, the use of antiviral drugs, and sometimes even antibiotics may be necessary. An intact skin barrier is the best layer of defense against infection. By definition, ablative fractional lasers injure the skin, allowing for potential infection after the treatment. Pathological microorganisms that can infect the skin include bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Infections are also the most common cause of scarring. Inexperienced or inattentive practitioners and clients may find it difficult to distinguish infection from the normal healing process. If an infection is suspected, it is recommended that a microbiological cultures test be performed immediately in order to identify the cause and determine possible treatment procedures. In most cases, both antibiotic and antiviral treatments are used. The use of steroids immediately after resurfacing is controversial due to the increased risk of infection. It is worth noting that there have been reports of infection possibly caused by the replacement of standard protective products with a strong topical steroid. The most terrifying complications are, of course, the scarring caused by the infection, highlighting the need for supervision and proper skincare. It is also important to remember the behaviour of clients outside the clinic, when they often forget, about the need to change pillowcases, use disposable towels for some time after the procedure, or even avoid hugging pets (I will not mention licking by dogs ). You should also tell them about this. Another cause of scarring is operator error in the form of mismatching treatment parameters: excessive fluence or density, too many passes, or accumulation of impulses resulting from not performing a patch test, during which everything is easier to determine. The neck and chest are more prone to scarring than the face and should be handled even more carefully. You should also remember to cool the skin down after the treatment because the vaporization of a part of the epidermis and skin itself requires a very high temperature, which is then transferred to healthy tissue, which hinders the quick healing process. Other side effects may include: Temporary discoloration – occurring mainly in clients with darker phototypes, and more frequent in treatments with a CO2 laser. Post-operative contact dermatitis, which may also be allergic. The prolonged period of redness. It can be caused by improper laser settings, infection, and contact dermatitis. Over time, the erythema gradually disappears. Acne and milia are common, though minor, side effects. A spontaneous resolution can be expected. In conclusion, I would like to add that, with prudent use and according to the adopted parameters, fractional resurfacing treatments are safe and give great results. A laser practitioner must have an established knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the skin, laser therapy, but also experience and a constant willingness to learn. Therefore, in the educational program developed for Certifa Aesthetics, resurfacing treatments, in accordance with the guidelines of Health Education England, is only available at level 6. When we are sure that we teach experts for whom we have prepared a theory, available online, and dedicated practical classes.https://www.facebook.com/MagdalenaAttaMotte/videos/644094579638953/