14 September 2021 Author : José Campos Lopes The natural skin aging process, or intrinsic aging, is aggravated by several factors, that represent extrinsic aging and are, for example: Sun exposure; Pollution. Skin aging is presented by signs of gradual and progressive deterioration of skin structure and functions. Initially, aging is more evident at epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) and superficial dermis; The skin becomes looser, its shine changes, spots and wrinkles appear. These are the changes that motivate the search for photo-rejuvenation treatments. In recent decades, progress in the area of aging skin recovery has been substantial and several techniques are currently available. Among these are botulinum toxin, filling products, chemical abrasion, intense pulsed light and laser, used alone or in combination, depending on the objectives and specificities of each person. hoto-rejuvenation or CO 2 laser resurfacing Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) laser photorejuvenation, which uses a wavelength of 10600 nm, is the standard treatment for recovery of facial aging damage. The CO 2 laser is an ablative laser that targets intracellular water: Intracellular water is heated almost instantly to a temperature greater than 100 o C; The thermal necrosis that is caused results in a complete ablation of the epidermis and part of the superficial dermis, up to thicknesses of about 150 microns. The most modern equipment acts on the skin with tiny energy beams that sweep, in a non-sequential way, geometric shapes chosen by the operator. Thus, thanks to a computerized system, areas of uninjured skin are left in the intervals between the "spots", allowing: A faster recovery, with less postoperative edema and erythema; Less pain; Fewer complications, namely hyperpigmentation in people with higher phototypes. With the use of this technique, a good recovery of the appearance, texture, dyschromia and wrinkles of skin is achieved. It can be said that this is a true photo-rejuvenation, since the heat produces an immediate effect through a shortening of about 30% of type I collagen. CO 2 laser in acne The CO 2 laser also has interesting results in wrinkles caused by acne: The procedure is quick and performed under local anesthesia, by applying a cream; Recovery time after treatment is variable, but absence of normal activity does not exceed 5-7 days. Right after treatment the appearance is that of a sunburn, but quickly the micro-crusts disappear and make-up can then be used again. Wrinkle reduction will continue to occur continuously over the 6 months following the treatment, by producing new collagen and improving the quality of elastic fibers The use of sun protection after treatment is very important. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
