Fotona Laser Treatments

What is Fotona laser treatment?

Fotona is a system that brings two laser wavelengths together on one platform. The Er:YAG wavelength is strongly absorbed by water and creates controlled renewal in the superficial layers of the skin. The Nd:YAG wavelength reaches deeper, heating the tissue to encourage the reorganisation of collagen fibres. Which mode is used is decided by the physician according to skin type and treatment goal.

Indications assessed

The concerns most often addressed are uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, superficial acne scarring, fine lines, tissue laxity and certain vascular lesions. Treatment is planned taking into account skin type (Fitzpatrick classification) and recent sun exposure.

How does it work?

Laser energy is absorbed by a target chromophore in the tissue and produces controlled heat. That heat initiates a renewal process similar to wound healing: fibroblasts are stimulated and new collagen production increases over weeks to months. The result therefore appears gradually across a course rather than after a single session.

How the session goes

Preparation and patch test

Skin type is determined and recent sun exposure and current medication reviewed. Where indicated, a small test area is treated first. Before the session the skin is cleansed, eye protection is fitted and topical anaesthetic cream may be applied.

The procedure

In the selected mode the area is scanned systematically. A sensation of heat and tingling is expected; the device's cooling system improves comfort. A facial session takes 30 to 45 minutes.

What to expect afterwards

Redness and a feeling of warmth are normal afterwards and usually settle within a few hours to one or two days. Light flaking may follow superficial modes. During the first week sun protection, generous moisturising and avoiding irritating products are essential. A course usually comprises three to six sessions, with the result assessed two to three months after the last one.

Who should avoid it

Treatment is not performed during pregnancy, with active infection or an open wound at the site, in people who have taken oral isotretinoin within the last six months, in those on photosensitising medication, in uncontrolled diabetes, in people prone to keloids, or on recently tanned skin. If there is an active herpes infection the session is postponed.

Expectations and follow-up

The two factors that most determine the outcome of laser treatment are the correct indication and the correct energy setting. Two treatments performed with the same device can produce very different results if the settings differ. For that reason the mode, energy level and number of passes used at each session are recorded in your file, and the next session is planned on the basis of that record. Maintaining sun protection throughout the course directly affects both the result and the risk of pigmentation. At the assessment two to three months after the final session, a further course or maintenance session is discussed if needed.

The appropriate mode, energy settings and number of sessions are determined only after a skin examination.