Definition: eMatrix is a system from the laser cosmetic company Syneron that utilizes Sublative Rejuvenation, described as a combination of laser ablation and skin resurfacing. This system is primarily for cosmetic purposes.
The eMatrix™ system with Syneron’s unique Sublative Rejuvenation™ treatment goes beyond fractional methods for skin resurfacing. Sublative Rejuvenation is a non-laser and non-light−based treatment that utilizes RF sublation—fractionated bipolar radio frequency technology—to place the heat energy effectively into the dermis where it can produce significant dermal impact with minimal epidermal disruption. [1]
How it Works
The eMatrix system’s ergonomic applicator delivers bipolar radio frequency energy via a matrix of 64 electrodes in the disposable applicator tip. The RF energy generates fractional deep dermal heating in the region of the electrode matrix to induce skin injury, thus eliciting a wound healing response. Less affected tissue surrounding the matrix points may be stimulated by heat which helps accelerate the healing process, leading to tighter, rejuvenated appearance of the skin.
Since the unveiling of non-ablative fractional rejuvenation in 2004, the technology has taken the aesthetic community by storm. Although risk and downtime were reduced, numerous treatments were required to obtain comparatively modest results and darker skin types were unsuitable for treatment. Further developments led to ablative fractional resurfacing, most often utilizing a CO2 or Er:YAG laser. These modalities offered rejuvenation results approaching those seen with fully ablative CO2 resurfacing without the downtime.
Syneron radically shifted the concept of fractional resurfacing into a new direction by replacing laser energy with bi-polar RF. The bulk of the effect occurs beneath the epidermis and at subablative levels of heating, with little disruption occurring on the surface. This is best for optimal dermal stimulation of neocollagenesis. [3]
eMatrix Features:
Targets for Treatment
Treatment may result in improvement of:
• Wrinkles
• Scars
• Acne scars
• Textural irregularities
• Superficial skin lesions
• Skin laxity
Results
Sublative Rejuvenation with eMatrix was introduced to the industry in October 2008. The Matrix RF applicator which performs Sublative Rejuvenation is FDA cleared for dermatological procedures requiring ablation and skin resurfacing. [3]
After treatment with the eMatrix system for Sublative Rejuvenation, most patients showed improvement in facial parameters such as skin brightness (83%) and skin smoothness/wrinkle reduction (90%) [1].
Future Research
Research is currently continuing with the eMatrix system at multiple dermatology clinics and research facilities. Look for further studies resulting in clinical journals.
References
Hruza G MD, Taub A MD, et al. Skin Rejuvenation and Wrinkle Reduction Using a Fractional Radiofrequency System. Journal of Drugs & Dermatology, March 2009