What are nonablative treatments?
As mentioned previously, there are also nonablative lasers, non-laser intense pulsed light (IPL) sources, and radio frequency (RF) devices used by some doctors which are designed to stimulate collagen production in the dermis without removing (or ablating) the epidermis. See for example, “Noninvasive Rejuvenation of Photodamaged Skin Using Serial, Full-Face Intense Pulsed Light Treatments,” Dermatological Surgery, 26(9), 835-842, 2000 Sep (abstract available on Medline.) Most of these devices require multiple treatments over a few months to produce a noticeable effect. Doctors generally say that improvement with nonablative methods is modest. Results are usually better than light resurfacing, but not nearly as significant as with medium resurfacing. Fine lines can be reduced and wrinkles reduced in depth. Some devices also produce modest improvement in skin texture, discolorations, small capillaries and acne. (There are also some specialized light treatments specifically for acne, but
