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American Academy of Dermatology: Fractional Rejuvenation

           Innovative Technology Repairs Damaged Skin Inch By Inch

    NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The skin can be damaged in many
different ways -- some are environmental, such as sun exposure, while others
are the result of conditions such as acne or melasma.  While this damage
affects only small areas of the skin, past skin rejuvenation procedures
treated large areas of the skin whether it was damaged or not.  Now the latest
in non-ablative (non-invasive) laser skin rejuvenation precisely targets the
small areas of skin where damage has occurred, leaving the surrounding,
healthy skin untouched and better able to assist in the healing of the damaged
cells.
    Speaking today at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of
Dermatology, dermatologist Tina S. Alster, M.D., clinical professor at
Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., discussed fractional rejuvenation and
how its technology is changing the way that damaged skin is being revitalized.
    "The innovation of fractional rejuvenation is its ability to treat only
the areas of the skin that are damaged," said Dr. Alster.  "This more focused
treatment promotes faster renewal of the underlying skin cells and tissue
creating a fresher and healthier appearance of the entire skin surface."
    Fractional rejuvenation uses a non-ablative laser assisted by a computer
that precisely reads the contours of the treatment area.  These contours are
contrasted on the skin by a blue tint applied prior to treatment, which
specifically darkens the damaged areas of the skin.  The laser then directs
thermal beams into these darkened areas of skin in precise increments.
    "Fractional rejuvenation offers the best characteristics of both ablative
and non-ablative lasers," stated Dr. Alster.  "Patients receive the deeper
revitalization of the ablative laser with the shorter recovery process of the
non-ablative laser."
    Following treatment, the untreated skin tissue begins rapidly assisting
the cells targeted by the laser to begin forming new collagen and elastic
tissue, the main components of the skin that keep it looking young and
healthy.  The skin's repair begins as quickly as 24 hours following the
initial treatment.  After a few bi-weekly treatments, patients will begin to
notice improvement of the tone and texture of their skin as well as a
reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
    This treatment is proving effective for reversing the appearance of
photodamaged skin, including discoloration and deep wrinkles, acne and
traumatic scarring and pigment irregularities, such as melasma.  Even non-
facial skin can benefit from this treatment, including the hands, chest and
neck.  Side effects of fractional rejuvenation are minimal and typically
involve swelling and redness, which fades over several days.
    "Fractional laser treatment is another effective tool for dermatologists
to rejuvenate skin," said Dr. Alster.  "Patients with questions about skin
rejuvenation should talk with their dermatologist to determine if fractional
laser treatment is an appropriate option for their skin condition and
lifestyle."
    Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology
(Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most
representative of all dermatologic associations.  With a membership of more
than 14,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the
diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and
nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research
in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of
healthier skin, hair and nails.  For more information, contact the Academy at
1-888-462-DERM (3376) or http://www.aad.org .


SOURCE American Academy of Dermatology




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  • http://www.aad.org
    CONTACT:
    Aisha Ansari of American Academy of
    Dermatology, +1-847-240-1735, aansari@aad.org