Update on non‐ablative light therapy for rejuvenation: A review

Abstract

Non-ablative technologies are playing an increasing role in the management of photoaging. Newer radiofrequency technologies have added to this therapeutic armamentarium. Shorter wavelength technologies are more effective in targeting pilosebaceous vascular and pigmentary alterations while longer wavelength technologies are most effective in wrinkle reduction mediated through dermal remodeling. An overview of the various technologies available to the practicing laser surgeon are outlined in the present review.

The effects of radiofrequency on skin: Experimental study

“…This technique produces an electrical current which generates heat due to the resistance by the components of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues, with it being possible for said heat to be originated selectively from the papillary dermis to the subcutaneous adipose tissue [8]. The depth of its reach and the effects depend on the geometry and size of the electrode and the conductive properties of the tissue treated, respectively [11].…”

“…High frequency radiofrequency has been used in cosmetic medicine for the treatment of facial wrinkles [10,12], and naso-labial creases [11,13,14], in order to improve the laxity of the neck [11,15] and to raise eyelids [8,16]. Although a range of clinical studies on humans into the effects of this treatment exist, very few are aimed at understanding its effects on a microscopic level.…”

“…), four other specialized techniques were utilized in order to reveal changes in all components of the dermis. The only bibliographical references found alluded to changes in dermal collagen, while none made reference to possible modifications in elastic fibres or dermal mucopolysaccharides, although these latter molecules are also affected during the ageing process [8].…”

“…This method allows us to reduce flaccidity, wrinkles and cutaneous ageing with the possibility of selectively treating the deeper dermal and subdermal layers [8]. The action of this type of radiation on the human body generates thermal effects alone [9].…”

Patient satisfaction and efficacy of accent high-intensity focused ultrasound for face lifting

“…Thus, in recent years, non-invasive and non-ablative procedures have attracted attention with the hope of achieving skin tightening effects close to those of ablative lasers while avoiding long recovery times and potential complications [9][10][11]. Nonablative rejuvenation (NAR) devices have been designed to induce thermal injury within the dermis without epidermal damage [12][13][14]. However, laser energy can be diffracted, absorbed, or scattered, resulting in suboptimal energy penetration [15,16].…”