Method and device for collagen growth stimulation

Abstract

Provided is an applicator for skin treatment having one or more RF electrodes. An article is located between the electrodes, such as a roller or flexible belt containing one or more protruding pins electrically isolated from the RF electrodes. Also provided is a system for skin treatment including the applicator and a control unit. Further provided is a method of treating skin disorders in which a section of the skin is heated while, essentially simultaneously, one or more holes are placed in the heated section of the skin. The present method may be used, for example, in collagen remodeling.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates to electromagnetic energy skin treatment and, in particular, skin treatment for dermatological and cosmetic purposes.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]It is known that skin damage can stimulate the growth of new collagen. Uncontrolled skin damage may cause scarring, which is excessive collagen growth. However, controlled damage of the skin which is intentionally introduced can stimulate controlled re-growth of collagen in such a way as to improve the appearance of the skin. A well known method of controlled skin damage is ablating the epidermis using laser radiation with wavelengths having strong water absorption. Typical lasers used for epidermal ablation are CO2 and Er:YAG lasers. U.S. Pat. No. 6,309,387 to Eggers et al. discloses ablation of the epidermis using RF current. This treatment significantly reduces wrinkles and improves skin appearance. The main disadvantages of skin resurfacing are the long healing period that can last...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a system and method for stimulating collagen growth in the skin to treat various skin disorders such as wrinkle treatment, skin tightening, and skin rejuvenation. The method involves using two different methods of stimulating collagen growth: a mechanical part creating small holes in the skin and a control unit to heat the skin. The system includes an applicator with RF electrodes and an article with protruding pins. The method involves puncturing a section of skin and stimulating collagen growth using the RF electrodes and heating the skin. The technical effects of the invention include controlled and effective collagen remodeling, improved skin appearance, and reduced skin discomfort."

Problems solved by technology

It is known that skin damage can stimulate the growth of new collagen.

Uncontrolled skin damage may cause scarring, which is excessive collagen growth.

The main disadvantages of skin resurfacing are the long healing period that can last for more than a month, and a high risk of dischromia.

These disadvantages have reduced the popularity of ablative skin re-surfacing.

Non-ablative treatment is much safer and has no down time but the results of the treatment are less satisfactory.

This treatment provides skin healing within a few days, but the results are very superficial and less satisfactory than with a CO2 laser, even after multiple sessions.

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