Energy settings, measured in millijoules (mJ), serve as the precise depth control for fractional laser treatments. Increasing the mJ output directly extends the vertical penetration of Microthermal Zones (MTZs) into the skin. For example, a setting of 6mJ reaches approximately 360 micrometers, whereas increasing the energy to 10mJ extends penetration to 500 micrometers, allowing the beam to physically access pigment stored in the deeper dermal layers.
Precise regulation of energy output allows fractional lasers to target deep-seated melasma by adjusting the depth of Microthermal Zones (MTZs). This mechanism enables the physical removal of melanin from the dermis through microscopic channels without causing the widespread surface damage associated with traditional ablative methods.
The Mechanics of Penetration and Melanin Clearance
The Correlation Between Energy and Depth
The primary function of the energy setting is to determine how deep the laser microbeam travels. There is a direct relationship between the millijoules delivered and the micrometers of depth achieved.
At lower energy settings, such as 6mJ, the laser affects the upper layers, reaching depths around 360 micrometers.
By increasing the energy to 10mJ, the penetration deepens significantly to 500 micrometers. This range is critical for bypassing surface tissue to reach the middle and lower layers of the dermis.
Accessing Deep-Seated Pigment
Deep-seated melasma is often resistant to treatment because the pigment resides far below the epidermis.
Traditional treatments often fail because they cannot reach these depths without causing excessive surface damage.
By utilizing higher energy settings (e.g., 10mJ), fractional lasers can generate MTZs that physically intersect with these deeper melanin deposits.
The "Excretion Window" Mechanism
The application of energy does more than just heat the tissue; it creates physical channels known as Microthermal Zones (MTZs).
These micron-sized pores act as "excretion windows."
Once the channel is formed, necrotic melanin debris can migrate through these pathways toward the skin surface. This process facilitates the shedding of deep pigment during the natural healing phase, accelerating clearance.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Depth vs. MTZ Diameter
It is important to note that increasing energy does not only affect depth.
Higher millijoule settings can also increase the diameter of the Microthermal Zone.
This means that while you are reaching deeper pigment, you are also affecting a slightly larger volume of tissue horizontally.
Structural Change Requirements
To treat deep lesions or issues like hypertrophic scars, superficial energy is insufficient.
High-precision control of energy density is mandatory to trigger structural changes and tissue remodeling.
If the energy is too low, the laser will fail to reach the required depth of the lesion, rendering the treatment ineffective for deep-seated conditions.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
When selecting parameters for fractional laser treatment, the depth of the pathology dictates the energy requirement.
- If your primary focus is treating resistant, deep-seated melasma: You must utilize higher energy settings (e.g., closer to 10mJ) to ensure the MTZs penetrate roughly 500 micrometers into the dermis to reach the pigment.
- If your primary focus is superficial pigmentation or resurfacing: Lower energy settings (e.g., 6mJ) are sufficient to treat the upper 360 micrometers of the skin without unnecessary deep tissue impact.
Effective treatment relies on matching the laser's energy depth precisely to the anatomical location of the pigment.
Summary Table:
| Energy Setting (mJ) | Penetration Depth (μm) | Targeted Skin Layer | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 mJ | ~360 μm | Upper Epidermis/Dermis | Superficial pigmentation & resurfacing |
| 10 mJ | ~500 μm | Mid-to-Deep Dermis | Deep-seated melasma & dermal pigment |
| >10 mJ | >500 μm | Deep Dermis | Hypertrophic scars & structural remodeling |
Elevate Your Clinic's Clinical Outcomes with BELIS Precision Technology
To achieve superior results in treating resistant conditions like deep-seated melasma, precision in energy delivery is non-negotiable. BELIS specializes in professional-grade medical aesthetic equipment designed exclusively for high-end clinics and premium salons. Our advanced CO2 Fractional and Nd:YAG laser systems provide practitioners with the granular control needed to reach specific dermal depths with millijoule accuracy.
Why Partner with BELIS?
- Advanced Laser Systems: High-precision CO2 Fractional, Nd:YAG, and Pico lasers for versatile pigment management.
- Comprehensive Portfolio: From HIFU and Microneedle RF to body sculpting (EMSlim, Cryolipolysis) and specialized care like Hydrafacial and skin testers.
- Clinical Efficacy: Our devices are engineered to maximize results while ensuring patient safety through optimized Microthermal Zone (MTZ) control.
Ready to integrate the latest in dermal clearance technology into your practice? Contact us today to request a quote or consultation.
References
- Cameron K. Rokhsar, Richard Fitzpatrick. The Treatment of Melasma with Fractional Photothermolysis. DOI: 10.1097/00042728-200512000-00002
This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .
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