We are all going to show the signs of aging sooner or later, regardless of whether we like it or not. Fortunately, when it comes to aging skin, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, there is a new kid on the treatment block and it is known as Plasma Pen technology.
Plasma pen devices utilize the fourth state of matter, which is plasma. Plasma was discovered by Sir William Crookes, an English physicist, in 1879. The other three more well-known are solid, liquid and gas. The plasma energy is formed through the ionisation of atmospheric gases which will stimulate instant contraction and tightening of skin fibres. This technology does not use scalpel or laser to tighten excess skin, thereby avoiding all risks inherent to traditional intervention.
The principle of the plasma treatment is where the electrical energy is turned into an electrostatic energy, which is then transmitted to the probe. At about 1mm from the skin, oxygen and nitrogen are mixed and the electrostatic energy produces an arc of plasma which is discharged on the surface of the skin (epidermis). The plasma causes instant contraction and tightening of skin fibres, thus resulting in the reduction of the surface of the skin.
The treatment does not touch the skin, it is only the tiny plasma flash that makes contact. This contact leaves a very small superficial brown carbon spot that looks like a freckle. There is no heat to the surrounding skin. These small spots draw the skin together in their direct environment and shrink the excess skin. A specific pattern is followed to form a reduction grid. The final result is an improvement to the firmness and tension of the skin (lifting effect).
Since plasma energy affects the deeper dermal layers, the result is a lifted contour, a decrease in deep wrinkles, thicker and firmer skin. Plasma promotes new collagen protein which allows the original collagen protein to strengthen the skin.
Depending on the size of the area, and the skin condition to be treated, this will determine the length of time the treatment takes. Plasma Pen technology will treat, skin laxity, wrinkles, stretch marks, skin tags and certain types of pigmentation.
Plasma Pen Technology Results
Immediately after the procedure, the treated area will be quite red and may be slightly swollen. This can last from 1-3 days. The small carbon dots will dry to become small crusts. These crusts must not under any circumstance be picked or scratched off, they must be left to fall off on their own which can take anything from 5-14 days. These dots can be covered with a mineral foundation or mineral concealer.
The final results may be seen within 8-12 weeks post treatment and may continue improving a few months after. Results are cumulative and in some cases 2-3 treatments may be required to deliver the desired results. Depending on the condition being treated, if another treatment is required it may be performed as soon as 6 weeks later.
Plasma energy is not new, but the way it can be harnessed to assist with skin irregularities is an amazing technology. As always skin health and colour is taken into consideration before performing the treatment. To receive the optimum outcome for the skin, correct clinical homecare must be used before and after the treatment and the desired results can be achieved.
