StatenClinic

Intense pulsed light systems are comparable with lasers. Whilst a laser emits a single wavelength, the IPL systems covers a spectrum of different wavelengths. By using different filters it is possible to allow through light that matches the requirements for different treatments.

The most important substances (chromophores) in the skin that are capable of selective light absorption are water, haemoglobin and melanin. When these chromophores absorb light, its energy is changed to heat followed by destruction of the target substance, without damaging the surrounding tissue.

The treatment works as follows. The FX laser emits light with a wavelength of 1550 nm. Light with this wavelength is absorbed by water in the deeper skin layer and heats this water. As the water warms up it evaporates and in reaction the body produces new tissue. In the new tissue there is collagen, which is an important element of the skin. More collagen means increased elasticity and tightness of the skin.

The fractional laser works on two layers of the skin: the epidermis and dermis. The ray beam of the laser is divided in thousands of micro laser beams which only treats a small percentage of the skin. These ‘micro’ beams are called microthermal treatments zones (MTZ’s). With the MTZ’s only the treatment area is targeted and the healthy surrounding tissue stays undamaged. This way the treatment zone heals faster than if the whole area is exposed to the laser.