Pure Plasma vs. Laser Resurfacing

Pure Plasma is a cosmetic treatment that uses nitrogen-based plasma energy to resurface and revitalize the skin’s natural barrier from the inside out. The plasma heats the treatment area to a high temperature, allowing for the production of new collagen. This treatment uses ionized plasma in a targeted fashion, specifically regenerating skin cells to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without breaking the skin’s epidermis. ⁽¹⁾ 

Conversely, laser resurfacing treatments use focused light to break down elements within the skin. ⁽²⁾ Both treatments are proven to increase the overall surface of the skin, but only Pure Plasma uses minimally invasive techniques to generate collagen and elastin fibers with minimal external damage. 

Using the latest plasma science, Pure Plasma provides optimal results for a wide range of skin concerns. To inquire further about the device, please call us at (877) 535-7873 or fill out this contact form.

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About Pure Plasma

Plasma is a natural substance made when energy flows through a gas. For example, most of the plasma found in our universe is in the form of stars and lightning, substances that are far too hot to be handled. ⁽¹⁾ Pure Plasma generates this energy at low levels for safe application and effective skin rejuvenation. 

Pure Plasma Science

Pure Plasma is an FDA-cleared device that safely provides non-ablative resurfacing by directly targeting tissues to cause regeneration. It creates its plasma by applying electrical energy to a gas, creating ionized nitrogen gas molecules. This is known as low-temperature plasma (LTP). ⁽³⁾ These molecules then travel to the skin in strategic pulses, creating controlled wound formation to target irregularities like hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. But how does it compare to laser resurfacing?

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing uses specific light wavelengths to target certain elements in the skin, including pigment, scarring, water content, and wrinkles. This is determined by the depth of the laser treatment and whether it is:

• Ablative: Causes damage to the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin)
• Non-ablative: Dermis only, no direct manipulation of the epidermal layer
• Fractional: Utilizes both ablative and non-ablative energy

Depending on the depth of the lesion, laser resurfacing success varies widely from patient to patient. These treatments are also often associated with long, moderately uncomfortable healing periods and downtime. While they have traditionally been a great option for quick skin regeneration, the downtime and skin-thinning nature might deter certain patients. ⁽²⁾

How is Pure Plasma Different?

Rather than thinning the skin, Pure Plasma causes dermal thickening. It works from the inside out, providing long-lasting skin rejuvenation to areas that may not be suitable for laser treatment. For instance, some laser wavelengths are not safe to use on the most delicate areas of the face like the skin of the eye area. With Pure Plasma, these areas can be safely treated without damaging the eye. This can be particularly beneficial when treating eyelid wrinkles or drooping eyebrows, effectively reducing photoaging and reducing a patient’s need for a surgical procedure.

Benefits of Pure Plasma

• Collagen Stimulation: By promoting collagen synthesis, Pure Plasma can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
• Tissue Regeneration: The controlled thermal energy from the device promotes the regeneration of skin tissues. This can contribute to the repair of damaged skin and the formation of new, healthier skin cells.
• Tightening and Lifting: Plasma treatment can lead to subtle skin tightening and lifting effects. The heat generated by the plasma stimulates contraction of the skin, resulting in a firmer and more youthful appearance. This is particularly beneficial for treating sagging or loose skin.
• Improvement of Skin Texture: Plasma treatment can contribute to improved skin texture by addressing issues such as uneven skin tone, roughness, and irregularities.
• Non-Invasive: Plasma treatments are often considered non-invasive compared to surgical procedures. They can provide some of the benefits of more invasive treatments without the need for incisions or significant downtime.
• Versatility: Plasma treatment can be used on various areas of the body, including the face, neck, and hands. It is versatile and can be customized to address specific skin concerns.

Pure Plasma does not require the use of anesthetic or incisions of any kind. The procedure usually takes around 15 minutes, then the patient is free to go about their day as usual without interference. The treatment is fast-acting, quickly encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. Since Pure Plasma uses thermal energy, the skin’s tone and texture are improved while simultaneously reducing signs of aging and photodamage. Additionally, plasma treatment often reduces the appearance of pores and tightens the skin overall with minimal downtime. The targeted energy makes the process simple and effective, without causing widespread damage to the epidermis. Targeted skin also keeps producing new collagen for at least 6 to 8 weeks after treatment.

Ideal Candidates

The best candidates for Pure Plasma treatment are in good overall health with no serious underlying medical issues. They are non-smokers and must have realistic expectations about their predicted results. Someone who is struggling with wrinkles around their eyes and brows, but is not ready for facial surgery, or who is in the early stages of photoaging, may be a great candidate for this treatment. 

Patients with the beginning stages of facial skin sagging are also preferable for this treatment. It can tighten the neck of patients with banding, as well as help reduce the appearance of double chin for those with extra fat under the jawline. 

How To Prepare for Pure Plasma Treatment

The patient must stay away from direct sunlight for at least two weeks before their Pure Plasma procedure. Exposure to UV rays can damage the skin’s outer layer, causing irritation and hindering the treatment’s effectiveness. It is good practice to wear sun protection at all times when out in the sun. They need to avoid certain medications like anti-inflammatories, as well as some herbal remedies and fish oil supplements. Patients should avoid any bleaching or waxing of the treatment area and wash only with a gentle cleanser beforehand.

Pure Plasma Procedure

This procedure requires the use of an ergonomic handpiece and nitrogen tank to create the plasma. The practitioner applies the treatment to the skin, creating a chemical reaction and thermal ionized gas. Targeting specific imperfections, the treatment heats the skin and allows for the production of collagen and elastin. Treatments usually take around 15 to 20 minutes to complete.

Recovery & Results

Pure Plasma is a gentle resurfacing procedure. There is little to no downtime since the treatment does not directly damage the outer layer of the skin. The treatment area will look red for a couple of hours after, but this should subside quickly. 

Patients who receive this treatment on the face will notice new skin formation after the shedding process is through. This usually only takes around a week, and collagen and elastin production will continue beyond that. Their results will take full effect by week 3 or 4, and they may notice a difference in the elasticity and reduction of wrinkles before then. We recommend avoiding direct sun exposure without sun protection and a diligent skincare routine to maintain their results.

How Much Does Pure Plasma Cost?

With the multitude of advantages to having Pure Plasma treatments available for in-office treatment, providing this service is cost-effective and beneficial for both patients and providers. It is gratifying to be able to provide the most cutting-edge medical procedures that address a wide range of cosmetic concerns, and Pure Plasma can be a great addition to a well-rounded practice. 

To learn more, please don’t hesitate to fill out our contact form, or you may call us at (877) 535-7873. 

FAQ

Are there any products patients should avoid after my Pure Plasma treatment?

As the skin regenerates and heals, it is best to avoid the use of any harsh skin care products. Anything that contains strong chemicals, exfoliants, or active ingredients like acid and retinol should be avoided for at least 2 weeks following the procedure. 

Can Pure Plasma add volume to my hollow cheeks?

Though this treatment cannot replicate the results of fat transfer or dermal fillers, an increase in collagen and elastin can revive certain hollow areas when applied correctly. As the skin heals, it will start to appear younger and new, because the older, photoaged skin is slowly being replaced. This rejuvenation can lead to a fuller-looking face for some patients.

References

1. Yan X, Ouyang J, Zhang C, Shi Z, Wang B, Ostrikov K ( K. Plasma medicine for neuroscience—an introduction. Chinese Neurosurgical Journal. 2019;5(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s41016-019-0172-9
2. Heidari Beigvand H, Razzaghi M, Rostami-Nejad M, et al. Assessment of Laser Effects on Skin Rejuvenation. Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences. 2020;11(2):212-219. doi:https://doi.org/10.34172/jlms.2020.35
3. Laroussi M. Plasma Medicine: A Brief Introduction. Plasma. 2018;1(1):47-60. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/plasma1010005