When you think about skin ageing, you might be focusing on the things you see on the surface, such as wrinkles, sun spots, and discolourations. However, most of the changes associated with ageing happen at a deeper, cellular level.
This is the relevance of epigenetics. It is the study of various biological processes that affect how genes are switched on or off, without affecting the DNA itself. In dermatology, learning about these processes can help clinicians better understand skin behaviour over time. It also informs the use of energy-based technologies to treat age-related structural changes.
At Dr Refresh, we leverage these epigenetic insights to influence skin health right at the source. By utilising advanced energy-based lasers to positively alter cellular expression and clear UV-damaged, atypical cells, these interventions do more than reverse visible aging; they actively support long-term dermal health and reduce the risk of non-melanoma skin cancers.
To deliver these precise preventative and therapeutic outcomes, Dr Refresh houses the most in-house, world-class lasers of any specialist dermatology practice in NSW, utilising premier BBL, picosecond, and resurfacing laser treatments to safely restore the skin from the inside out.
DNA Methylation and Environmental Gene Expression
One of the ways to explain how skin changes over time is through a process called DNA methylation.
The Mechanism
DNA methylation is a natural biological process that regulates gene function. It occurs when small chemical markers called methyl groups attach themselves to DNA, affecting the activity of certain genes. DNA methylation does not alter the genetic code but acts like a control system that determines which instructions are expressed by the cells. In the skin, DNA methylation can affect the repair, renewal, and maintenance of skin structure over time.
Environmental Impact.
The skin suffers from damage brought about by a lifetime of internal and external factors. Environmental factors such as chronic ultraviolet (UV) radiation, pollution, and the natural effects of ageing can all affect DNA methylation within the skin cells.
When these patterns change, genes that are needed in collagen production, tissue repair, and maintenance of cellular functions may become less active. In turn, the genes associated with inflammation and structural breakdown may become more active. These changes lead to visible signs of ageing, such as reduced skin firmness, texture changes, and reduced ability to recover from environmental stress, affecting the skin’s overall health and integrity.
BroadBand Light (BBL): Modifying Epigenetic Markers
Broadband light (BBL) therapy has become a popular rejuvenating treatment because of its ability to stimulate cellular activity beyond the visible skin layer.
BBL is an advanced form of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy that can deliver controlled wavelengths of light energy into the skin, addressing concerns such as pigmentation irregularities, vascular lesions, and photodamage.
Researchers further explored how light-based treatments such as BBL interact with skin tissue at a cellular level. Studies have shown that specific wavelengths of light can influence the biological processes involved in keeping skin healthy and in ageing. Rather than altering DNA, these interactions affect the epigenetic markers that regulate gene expression, or how actively genes carry out their functions within the cells.
BBL-treated skin has shown changes in gene expression patterns associated with healthy cellular activity. There was increased expression of genes related to cellular repair, maintenance, and structural support, and reduced activity was seen in certain genes related to ageing and structural degradation.
Importantly, the method by which BBL is delivered is vitally important to achieve the above results.
Take note that BBL is not considered a cure for ageing and cannot be used to reverse the biological processes associated with ageing. Instead, available studies suggest that BBL may help support the skin’s natural resilience and its response to ongoing environmental stressors. Because of these reasons, BBL is often used for long-term skin management to maintain overall skin health.
CO2 & Erbium Full And Fractionated Lasers: Thermal Injury and Cellular Signalling
BBL uses light energy while resurfacing lasers rely on precise thermal energy to create microscopic injuries on the skin in a process known as fractional ablation. Here, tiny columns of damaged tissue are removed while the surrounding healthy ones are left unaffected, triggering the skin’s natural wound healing process.
After detecting an injury, a complex cascade of events begins. Dermal fibroblasts become stimulated and move to the affected area to start the repair. Structural proteins, collagen and elastin are produced, which are needed in developing skin strength, firmness, and elasticity. Thus, applying controlled injury to the affected area tells the skin to rebuild itself in a more active manner.
Having an epigenetic response to thermal stress makes resurfacing lasers effective in handling more advanced signs of photodamage, deeper textural irregularities, and skin laxity. They reverse ageing and support structural repair and overall skin quality through controlled healing.
The Patient Pathway: Consultation, Risks, and Recovery
BBL and resurfacing laser treatments are medical procedures that require a comprehensive assessment before treatment.
Mandatory Consultation
Patients will meet with Dr Ritu or her clinical staff to discuss the treatment and create a personalised treatment plan. They will undergo a comprehensive clinical assessment, including their Fitzpatrick skin type, skin concerns, degree of photodamage, and medical history.
These essential factors will determine their suitability for BBL, picosecond, or resurfacing laser therapy. By utilising multiple world-class, best-of-category lasers, Dr Refresh is uniquely equipped to safely accommodate all skin types and customise treatment protocols to achieve the best possible results.
The Recovery Process
Recovery from BBL and picosecond lasers involves minimal downtime, with temporary redness and darkening of the pigmented lesions before they gradually fade. With laser resurfacing, patients experience a more intense recovery period with swelling, crusting, redness, and peeling of the epidermal layer. Healing occurs over several days to 1 week, depending on the intensity of the treatment.
Potential Risks
As with all other energy-based treatments, risks may occur. Potential side effects include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), hypopigmentation, prolonged redness, and, in rare cases, scarring or infection. Individual biological responses to the treatment and healing outcomes vary, which is why each patient must undergo careful assessment, planning, and post-treatment recovery care.
Next Steps: Clinical Assessment at Dr Refresh
Addressing your skin’s natural resilience and health requires a careful understanding of cellular function and gene expression. To explore how evidence-based modalities like BBL, picosecond lasers and resurfacing lasers interact with your skin, contact Dr Refresh to schedule a comprehensive clinical assessment.
Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual results may vary.
