Skin tightening effect using fractional laser treatment II: A pilot animal study on skin remodeling

Abstract

Background: Fractional laser resurfacing is a new procedure for skin rejuvenation. We have found that it has a skin tightening effect in humans.

Objective: To assess the mechanism of the skin tightening effect of fractional laser treatment in animals using histologic approaches.

Methods: The dorsal skin of hairless guinea pigs was irradiated with a fractional 1,540-nm erbium glass laser. Biopsy specimens were taken serially from 0 hour until 1 year after irradiation and evaluated histologically.

Results: Histologic evaluation indicated dermal remodeling within 2 months, in which regenerated collagen bundles and fibroblasts aligned in a horizontal direction, suggesting a traction stress on the dermal components. The treated part became less obvious over a period of more than 3 months by recovery of fine collagen bundles without fibrosis.

Conclusion: These results suggest that improvement of the tension in a horizontal direction is essential for skin remodeling and improvement of facial laxity using fractional laser resurfacing.