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Photorejuvenation

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Innovative, modern techniques allow you to return the skin's radiance, restore water balance, prolong beauty and youth. Photorejuvenation is considered an effective way to combat aging - laser therapy that renews epidermal cells without surgical intervention.

Non-contact technology solves the main cosmetic problems: pigmentation, redness, dry skin, fine wrinkles and vascular networks.

The procedure involves deep penetration of a powerful light wave pulse, which has a cleansing effect on unwanted skin formations and activates collagen fibers. Due to this, the skin becomes elastic, toned and young, as after a facelift. The results of photorejuvenation become noticeable after the first session, and the therapy itself is painless and has a minimum of side effects.

The non-ablative method of rejuvenation (which does not violate the integrity of the surface layers of the skin) is based on the principle of converting electromagnetic energy into thermal energy with tissue heating to temperatures that activate biochemical processes.

Photorejuvenation is recommended for women and men over 30 years of age. The program for working with the so-called "aging markers" (fine wrinkles, capillary branches, etc.) is selected individually depending on the type, condition and color of the skin. Before starting cosmetic procedures, a consultation with a dermatologist is required.

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Photorejuvenation: pros and cons

The beginning of any treatment, including cosmetic, begins with a medical examination, which will determine the action plan in your specific case. The effectiveness of the procedures will depend on the initial condition, as well as the individual characteristics of the skin. In addition to the advantages of the method, you should know the facts photorejuvenation pros and cons.

The advantages of the technology are:

  • the possibility of laser correction for people with thin and sensitive skin;
  • painlessness;
  • providing a lifting effect;
  • no rehabilitation period;
  • speed in achieving the desired result;
  • compatibility with other types of cosmetic treatment;
  • affordability.

Indications for photorejuvenation:

  • identification of the first signs of aging – decreased tone, flabbiness and dryness of the skin, the presence of expression wrinkles;
  • pigmentation;
  • vascular neoplasms;
  • the skin acquires a reddish tint due to dilated capillaries (rosacea);
  • enlarged pores;
  • acne problem.

Photorejuvenation: facts against:

  • possible redness of the skin and a burning sensation;
  • Do not use on tanned skin;
  • does not cope with deep wrinkles.

It is possible to get rid of deep wrinkles by corrective injections with special preparations, and the problem of changing the oval of the face can only be solved by surgical intervention. In these cases, photorejuvenation acts only as a preparatory stage before the main therapy.

It should be remembered that just as there is no identical person, there is no single skin type, so the elimination of aesthetic defects should be carried out by determining the root cause of their appearance. As practice shows, it is possible to get rid of external irritants in the form of pigments and acne only after treating hidden internal pathological processes. For example, pigmentation on the face may indicate liver disease, and external "healing" by photorejuvenation will bring only a short-term effect.

What is better photorejuvenation or biorevitalization?

Biorevitalization is understood as skin rejuvenation by injections of active substances. In order to activate the regenerative properties of tissues, hyaluronic acid or a cosmetic cocktail based on amino acids and peptides is injected under the skin. Biorevitalization allows you to solve several problems at once - restore the structure of the epithelium and water balance, restore elasticity and even out skin color, get rid of wrinkles and scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation. The disadvantages of the method include: lack of a lasting result (after the procedure, the effect lasts up to 10 days), possible allergic reactions to drugs, the need to undergo a session with a qualified doctor and confidence in the authenticity of the vaccine.

What is better photorejuvenation or biorevitalization? According to doctors, these are two procedures that solve different problems. Photorejuvenation is the best way to eliminate pigmentation and capillary network. Biorevitalization stimulates dermal cells and maintains water reserves. Often, both procedures are used as part of a comprehensive anti-age treatment: initially phototherapy, and then biorevitalization.

Photorejuvenation device

Until recently, dermabrasion, chemical peeling and deep laser resurfacing were used for rejuvenation purposes. These technologies helped to get rid of some of the symptoms of aging, but had a long recovery period and often resulted in complications (for example, the "leopard skin" effect).

Modern beauty salons have multifunctional phototherapy devices equipped with various attachments for: photoepilation, combating vascular changes, acne treatment, pigmentation removal and photorejuvenation. When choosing a photorejuvenation device, you should pay attention not only to the dimensions and configuration of the equipment, but also to additional parameters. For example, RF radiation gives the device the ELOS status - a combination of electrical and photo effects, which improves the quality of treatment of the problem area.

Photorejuvenation is performed using laser equipment or a pulsed light device with intense radiation:

  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) or DPC (Dynamic Pulse Control) – a source of intense pulsed light;
  • SPL (Square Pulse Light) – rectangular pulsed light that provides maximum effect when applied to the treatment area;
  • laser device – cosmetology combines with replaceable light filters that transmit a light wave of a certain spectrum through a photo attachment;
  • Quantum photorejuvenation is an innovation in the field of preserving youth. These devices are equipped with sapphire glass attachments and a skin cooling control system down to -10 o C.

Often, a photorejuvenation device combines several light sources (for example, laser and IPL), which expands the therapeutic possibilities. A number of machines are also diagnostic complexes that allow you to accurately select the characteristics of a light flash for a specific skin phototype. This fact eliminates complications in the form of burns, and on the other hand, guarantees sufficient effectiveness of the procedure. The advantage of the device will be the presence of manual adjustment, adjusting the program in accordance with the individual needs of the patient.

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The harm of photorejuvenation

Photorejuvenation is a controlled thermal damage of the dermis, due to which renewal at the cellular level is ensured, the color and texture of the skin are evened out. After the session, all defects are exacerbated - pigments become bright brown, a crust forms over a large vessel, cases of severe swelling are not excluded, etc. However, such troubles indicate the quality of the work performed and are the second stage in achieving the desired result, the true fruits of which can be assessed in a few weeks.

The harm of photorejuvenation concerns the risk of getting burns. Therefore, the method is contraindicated for people with dark skin and a bronze tan. Poor quality of the rejuvenation procedure threatens irreversible consequences: damage to blood vessels, scarring, etc. Before signing up for a photorejuvenation session, make sure the doctor is qualified, who must have knowledge of dermatology and be trained to work with the device, as evidenced by the necessary documents. A big plus for a dermatologist is his experience in the field of cosmetology services. A competent specialist pays great attention to contraindications to the procedure, in connection with which during the consultation you will be asked in detail about the presence of chronic skin pathologies, endocrine disorders, infections, malignant tumors, pregnancy and lactation.

Photorejuvenation procedure

Photorejuvenation is the stimulation of skin cells by means of light radiation, which does not have a destructive effect on the protective layers of the epidermis. The procedure provides a lasting rejuvenating effect and eliminates skin defects.

The rejuvenation program includes three stages:

  1. consultation with a dermatologist with examination and preparation of an individual plan for correcting existing problems, taking into account the patient’s wishes;
  2. preparation of the skin for photorejuvenation using fruit acids;
  3. laser treatment, starting with the removal of pigments and spider veins, moving to deeper layers of the epidermis to restore elastin and collagen.

The total number of sessions varies from 3 to 7 with mandatory 2-3 week intervals. Depending on the goals, the photorejuvenation procedure lasts from 10 to 60 minutes. The radiation intensity program is selected individually. The manipulation does not cause pain, but a cooling gel is applied to particularly sensitive areas, and the eyes are protected with special glasses. At the end of the session, slight redness is possible, which quickly passes. When working with pigment spots, you should know that at first they darken and peel. A mandatory condition after the procedure is protection from direct sunlight for two weeks and a three-day abstinence from visiting saunas / baths or a swimming pool.

IPL photorejuvenation

The purpose of photorejuvenation is to preserve youth and improve the health of the skin using intense pulsed light IPL (Intensed Pulse Light) or DPC (Dynamic Pulse Control), which penetrates the connective subcutaneous tissue, removes pigmentation and starts regeneration processes. This is where the name of the IPL device comes from, with a light wave tuned to hemoglobin (red blood pigment) or melanin (brown pigment, characteristic of freckles, sun spots/age spots). Passing through the dermis, the light beam is absorbed by melanin/hemoglobin and transformed into thermal energy. A short-term pulse has a destructive effect on the walls of blood vessels and melanin accumulations, ensuring their gradual resorption. The light beam also activates collagen production, smoothing out fine wrinkles.

First introduced in 1990, IPL photorejuvenation is constantly being improved. The advantages of the technology include: non-invasiveness, short rehabilitation period, minimum side effects, and effectiveness. The number and duration of recommended procedures is prescribed individually depending on the skin problems. On average, photorejuvenation consists of 5 sessions, and improvements are noted after each of them. Full recovery takes 1-2 weeks.

The technique is considered painless, but if necessary, it is possible to use a cooling cream or anesthetic cream. The durability of the effect will depend on following the doctor's recommendations, in particular protecting the skin from ultraviolet radiation with sunscreens and limiting the use of decorative cosmetics.

Basic rules before starting treatment:

  • Do not sunbathe or use self-tanner for at least two weeks before the session;
  • a couple of days before the procedure, stop taking antibiotics of the tetracycline group (minocycline, tetracycline, etc.) and retinoids (Retin-A, differin, etc.);
  • exclude aspirin and ibuprofen (except when absolutely necessary) to prevent the occurrence of bruises;
  • After sessions, use sunscreen to avoid relapse.

Elos photorejuvenation

The term ELOS is introduced to denote electro-optical synergy. The abbreviation implies the simultaneous action of radiofrequency radiation (RF) with a pulsed light flux. The combination of radiofrequency and optical spectrum has a number of advantages. When laser or optical equipment affects the skin with a small beam of light, an insufficient therapeutic effect is noted, and an excessive light flux damages healthy layers of the epidermis and causes a number of side effects. Treatment of the problem area with ELOS technology is distinguished by the accuracy of the selection of radiation strength for each patient.

Elos photorejuvenation allows the procedure to be made safe without compromising the quality of treatment. The light pulse is absorbed by the skin and transformed into thermal energy, and the treated area is heated to the desired temperature. The radiofrequency wave provides soft, uniform heating of the tissue, which causes a decrease in resistance. Such a soft action stimulates rejuvenation processes: smoothing wrinkles, getting rid of most skin problems, including psoriasis, scars and vitiligo.

Elos photorejuvenation benefits:

  • painlessness;
  • the negative impact on the eyes is minimized thanks to double filters;
  • no burns;
  • no anesthesia or cooling required;
  • no peeling;
  • The technique is applied to the face, chest, thighs, stomach and even eyes;
  • the superficial layer of the skin is not damaged (energy penetrates directly into the papillary layer);
  • healthy areas of skin are not affected;
  • Decorative cosmetics can be applied immediately after the session.

The average number of procedures is 5-6 with an interval of 3 weeks between them.

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Quantum photorejuvenation

A distinctive feature of Quantum photorejuvenation devices is the high modality of the light flow pulse. This fact causes a reduction in the duration of the session without loss of efficiency. The device is equipped with a cooling system up to minus 10 degrees and a sapphire glass on the nozzle, preventing burns.

Quantum photorejuvenation is performed on the latest computer equipment, allowing you to choose the optimal parameters - strength and depth of penetration in accordance with the patient's skin phototype. The duration of the session depends on the goal and the area being treated (5-60 minutes). During the procedure, the patient may notice a slight burning sensation (when working with vessels, the discomfort is more pronounced). A gentle technique, after which the skin radiates health, purity and youth, is recognized as the best alternative to plastic surgery.

Advantages of the method:

  • the result is achieved by stimulating collagen fibers;
  • pronounced lifting effect;
  • elimination of skin defects;
  • non-invasive action;
  • minimum side effects and no long recovery period.

After the procedures, you should protect your skin from exposure to sunlight, use protective creams, and avoid visiting saunas, swimming pools, or baths for some time.

Laser photorejuvenation

Photorejuvenation with carbon dioxide or erbium laser is performed without grinding. Laser devices operate on the principle of IPL (intense light flow), stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.

Superficial, not deep wrinkles can be removed with an erbium laser. The use of a carbon dioxide laser extends to deeper wrinkles, scars, pigments, enlarged pores and other defects.

Laser photorejuvenation is equated to peeling and evaporation. This is explained by the fact that the laser beam gradually removes layers of skin to achieve maximum smoothness and an even color of the dermis. The duration of the effect is selected individually, so the procedure time varies from half an hour to two hours. Among the side effects, redness of the skin is distinguished, which disappears after a few months, and in very light and thin-skinned patients it can last for six months.

Possible complications:

  • the appearance of dark pigments in patients with dark skin tones;
  • manifestation of herpes;
  • scar formation.

During the recovery period, a bandage is applied to the treated area for approximately three days. The patient will undergo treatment for the next few weeks to prevent the formation of a scab.

After laser therapy, swelling, redness, burning sensation, itching and even slight pain syndrome are often detected. The described discomforts completely disappear on the fifth day after treatment, and the skin begins to peel. The renewed skin requires careful care and protection from ultraviolet radiation.

Photorejuvenation of the skin

Photorejuvenation is a real salvation for people who want to get results in a short time, without interrupting their work process and without changing their usual lifestyle.

Photorejuvenation of the skin will help to eliminate skin defects, restore youth and beauty to the hands, neck, and décolleté area. Nozzles of different diameters are intended for working with different areas of the body, facilitating the treatment of a large area (for example, on the back).

The work of intensive light is based on penetration into various layers of the skin without damaging the epidermis. Light energy is converted into heat, ridding the skin of only problematic tissues - pigment accumulations, dilated vessels, lifeless collagen fibers. The light flow starts the mechanism of restoring metabolic processes and producing new cells, normalizes the functioning of skin tissues, activates biochemical and synthetic reactions, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, and renews the antioxidant program.

Photorejuvenation of the skin not only helps to get rid of common aesthetic problems, but also causes an increase in the protective forces of the dermis due to the normalization of microcirculation and drainage function. Rejuvenation becomes possible due to internal restorative changes and the skin's own reserves.

Photorejuvenation of the face

Nothing reveals a person's true age as much as the face and hands. The first signs of aging usually appear at age 30: dull skin, uneven complexion due to pigmentation and dilated blood vessels, expression lines, etc.

Non-invasive treatment – facial photorejuvenation combines safety, high efficiency and affordability. Developed by dermatologists, modern technology minimizes the number of side effects and is characterized by a short recovery period. And the latest generation of photorejuvenation machines guarantees painlessness when treating delicate skin even around the eyes and lips. Computer equipment of the devices helps the doctor select the wavelength for each cosmetic defect.

The stream of intense light has a soft warming effect on the cells of the deep layer of the dermis. As a result, pigmentation and the capillary network on the face disappear, and the production of collagen is activated, improving the structure of the skin and smoothing out fine wrinkles.

Facial photorejuvenation does not increase the skin's sensitivity to solar radiation, however, after sessions, sunscreens should be used to prevent signs of photoaging.

Photorejuvenation at home

Photorejuvenation without leaving home is not a myth, but an accessible procedure. The beauty industry offers compact, easy-to-use devices that are inferior to similar salon devices in terms of radiation power and number of programs.

Photorejuvenation at home is an effective, safe and convenient method of treating most problem areas, with the exception of: skin around the eyes, ears, scalp and groin. Getting rid of flabbiness, wrinkles, freckles, pigmentation, acne and dilated blood vessels has become possible for people with light and darker skin.

After purchasing a suitable device, carefully read the instructions and conduct a sensitivity test with one photo flash on the desired area. After 24 hours, examine the skin. The absence of excessive redness, burning, peeling and tingling indicates that you can use the device. It is recommended to repeat the test on a neighboring area and make sure the result is positive.

Photorejuvenation at home, procedure sequence:

  • skin preparation – cleansing and absence of moisture (some devices require the use of an active gel);
  • eye protection with special glasses;
  • single flash exposure to the treated area;
  • application of nourishing cream after the procedure.

The course duration can reach several months depending on the skin condition and the tasks set. In any case, you should not force the events, so it is recommended to conduct rejuvenation sessions with a mandatory interval of one to two weeks. The first noticeable results appear after 2-3 procedures.

Photorejuvenation gives a lasting result if you follow basic rules. The first two days after the rejuvenating program, do not neglect rest, a gentle regimen and refrain from physical overload. For two weeks after the end of the course, avoid using peelings and steaming the skin, self-tanning and staying in a solarium. Protect your skin from sunlight, refuse to visit a bathhouse/sauna/swimming pool.

Contraindications to the use of photorejuvenation

Photorejuvenation is a non-traumatic, gentle technique. Laser beam exposure has its own contraindications and warnings. During a preliminary consultation with a dermatologist, you need to inform him about the medications you are taking, allergic reactions, and existing diseases. The procedure is not recommended after active tanning or the use of self-tanner.

Contraindications to the use of photorejuvenation:

  • malignant diseases;
  • blood pathologies, in particular coagulation disorders;
  • photodermatosis;
  • pregnancy and breastfeeding period;
  • malignant tumors;
  • uncompensated diabetes;
  • some eye diseases;
  • predisposition to tissue scarring;
  • skin infections;
  • presence of a pacemaker;
  • recent damage to the skin in the intended treatment area;
  • severe hypertension.

Before starting therapy, you should stop taking certain pharmacological drugs - antibiotics, antidepressants, diuretics, etc.

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Consequences of photorejuvenation

Photorejuvenation is a preventive method or is used to combat existing skin defects and age-related changes.

Despite the temporary exacerbation of problems (strong manifestation of pigmentation, redness, peeling, etc.), a properly performed procedure eliminates acne, rosacea, pigment spots, flabby and tired skin. As a result of photorejuvenation, aging processes slow down, and the manifestations of age-related changes are reduced.

The effects of photorejuvenation extend to improving the structure and color of the skin. Unfavorable results and complications concern cases with contraindications, conducting a session with an unqualified doctor in a dubious clinic. A competent dermatologist will inquire about your diseases, medications taken, determine your skin type and conduct a thorough examination to exclude lesions before starting treatment.

Photorejuvenation is not performed if dermatitis, eczema, hypertension, epilepsy, as well as blood clotting disorders, pregnancy, or malignant tumors are detected. During the preliminary consultation, the doctor will tell you how to prepare for treatment: do not sunbathe, stop taking certain medications. After completing the phototherapy course, the dermatologist will give recommendations on skin care and safety.

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Where to get photorejuvenation?

Photorejuvenation programs are offered by beauty salons, medical centers, hardware and laser cosmetology centers, SPA salons, etc. Phototherapy has become available at home with the purchase of appropriate equipment. The disadvantage of compact home devices is the insufficient power of the light flux, which does not allow to cope with all cosmetic defects, the lack of qualified consultation and medical supervision, as well as the impossibility of treating sensitive areas (bikini, eyes, etc.).

How to decide where to do photorejuvenation? First, set a specific goal for yourself, so as not to be distracted by all the problems at once. The deciding factor may be the price issue. During the first visit, ask the dermatologist in detail about the equipment used, indications, contraindications, treatment features and the rehabilitation period in your particular case. The ideal option would be a clinic in which the consulting doctor is the attending one. Do not forget that in addition to knowledge in dermatology, the doctor must have documents confirming the completion of training on the photorejuvenation device. The presence of extensive practical experience of the specialist will be an ideal option for any patient.

Reviews of photorejuvenation

Any self-respecting clinic or beauty salon has an impressive number of regular customers, as well as a website where you can read reviews of the procedures. Oddly enough, but reviews of photorejuvenation do not always have to be positive. It is quite natural to have neutral and negative reviews. This is due to the fact that the client had an incorrect idea of the rehabilitation process, wants to see an instant result, or his skin phototype requires longer treatment. It happens that the device itself does not have sufficient power to solve the task, and sometimes it is completely old, has not undergone a routine inspection with replacement of filters and other replaceable units.

Negative reviews about photorejuvenation appear due to the incompetence of the dermatologist, incorrectly selected therapy or treatment regimen. Do not forget that there are people who are not shown phototherapy at all. The purpose of the preliminary consultation is to determine the most suitable way to solve the problem on an individual basis, eliminating errors, complications and patient dissatisfaction.

Prices for photorejuvenation

The cost of photorejuvenation varies depending on the level of the clinic, the equipment used, the qualifications of the dermatologist, as well as the amount of work and the goals set.

Prices for photorejuvenation of the entire face (average session duration is 45 min) are 400-900 UAH, hands (30 min) - 300-800 UAH, neck and décolleté area (30 min) - 400-600 UAH. Most clinics offer a flexible system of discounts when purchasing a package of procedures (treatment of several zones or a combination of photocorrection with additional treatment). A consultation with a dermatologist is free in most cases. The use of a cooling spray "lidocaine" and anesthetic cream "emla" may be included in the price of the service, or may be used for an additional fee.

The total cost is made up of the duration of treatment, individual characteristics and the patient's skin phototype. The approximate price of one photorejuvenation impulse for a treated area of up to 1 cm2 is 50 UAH.

Photorejuvenation is always an individual program that takes into account all the client’s wishes and the recommendations of a qualified specialist.

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