▶ Previous Artlcle : #2-1. Fractional Laser
Fractional laser is widely used in acne or scar removal. For rejuvenation, lower output or fractional RF is preferred due to less pain and downtime. Other mild modalities or devices without downtime are also preferred to fractional laser for rejuvenation procedures. Fractional laser is used in melasma in countries other than Japan but this is rarely the case in Japan. Here, laser toning is the mainstay of melasma treatment.
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Japanese women tend to apply a lot of make-up, perform dual cleansing with make-up remover and soap as well as regularly epilate their faces in some cases. They inevitably suffer a lot of skin irritation caused by such habits. Irradiation of fractional laser on such sensitive skin results in prolonged erythema. Therefore, the risk of prolonged erythema and pigmentation increases with shorter treatment intervals.
Fractional lasers used in my practice are Lux1540xD, Pixel2940, eCO₂, CO₂RE, and AcuPulse. When Fraxel first entered the market in Japan, it cost over 18 million yen, making the cost-profit structure very unfavorable for doctors. I purchased Lux1540 instead, a device that immediately followed Fraxel, as it could use the handpiece of Star Lux and was relatively affordable. I experienced its excellent efficacy, but the non-ablative effect was limited and I felt the need for a fractional CO₂ laser. I purchased eCO₂ manufactured by Lutronic of Korea as soon as it was made available in Japan and have been very satisfied with its high performance. eCO₂ was the first device that helped build credibility for Korean products. With more clinical cases with favorable outcome, I also added other product lines to my practice, which together have formed the key part of my armamentarium.
I use fractional laser mostly for scar removal. It is one of the most frequently used device in treatment of indented acne scar. Fractional CO₂ laser brings the most favorable outcome in this regard. It is the first-choice when the patient is willing to tolerate downtime. When the patient wishes to be treated only on weekends without disturbing daily activities, I use the non-ablative laser, Lux1540xD with greater frequency of treatments to bring gradual improvement.
I prefer fractional CO₂ laser because it not only provides more oxygen to the skin surface but improves scar through regeneration of collagen over several months. This benefit of the treatment goes beyond simple ablation. Patients satisfaction is also high.
-To be continued-
