Plasma skin resurfacing is the clinically tested technique in facial rejuvenation. It is used as an alternative to the classic ablative laser resurfacing such as a CO2 or Erbium laser which is a more invasive and less safer procedure. Plasma skin regeneration technology has a comparable effectiveness as ablative lasers but with fewer of latter’s drawbacks. Its safety profile – especially the lower energy setting – is comparable to nonablative procedures while better results can be achieved. Currently, the most commonly used system for plasma resurfacing is Portrait made by Rhytec.
Portrait ® Plasma resurfacing device combines ultra-high frequency (UHF) electrical energy within a high temperature ceramic nozzle to generate plasma – the ionized nitrogen gas. This thermal energy is then released in a controlled and uniform fashion to penetrate to the dermal level and create the thermal damage beneath the upper level of the skin while leaving the upper levels of the skin intact to protect the healing process in the dermis. Portrait ® Plasma Resurfacing System delivers thermal energy at and below the skin’s surface at the dermal level to stimulate new skin cell growth and generate new collagen for up to one years following treatment. Portraits® unique plasma energy can produce desired results in wrinkle reduction, skin tightening, skin texture and tone improvement, and discoloration. Portrait ® Plasma is also effective in treating precancerous lesions and acne scars.
The system comes with 3 energy levels PSR1 (low) and PSR2/3 (high), different energy levels target different levels of treatment with different safety and recovery profile. At the low energy levels the outer layer of skin (epidermis) will flake off after a few days and a regenerated epidermis appears. Lower energy setting works as a light peel and is mainly indicated for fine lines, discoloration and skin texture and tones. High energy level target areas of deeper wrinkles. High energy levels penetrate deeper within the dermal layer. In an average of four to ten days, the outer skin layer peels off. Portrait ®Plasma promotes a continued rebuilding of collagen and elastin fibers at high and low energy levels yielding improved appearance for a lasting period of time after treatment.
On some third party web sites such as realself.com, one can find many user reviews and feedback. The cost of the procedure ranges from ~$1500 to $3500. Low energy procedure appears to be less expensive. The reviews come with both positive and negative opinion. This may depend on the quality of the clinic and the cosmetic physician, may not reflect the true value of the Portrait ® Plasma resurfacing system itself.