Portrait Plasma Skin Regeneration (PSR) is an FDA-cleared device that delivers energized nitrogen gas, through a handpiece, to resurface the skin. The deep thermal energy released during a Portrait Plasma Skin Regeneration session stimulates the growth of new collagen and elastin. The treatment is used to address wrinkles and fine lines, skin laxity, texture, and hyperpigmentation on the face, neck, chest, and hands. It was manufactured by Rhytec, though that company has since declared bankruptcy.
“Unlike lasers, which use light energy to target a specific component of the skin, such as water, hemoglobin, or pigment, this device uses pulses of ionized inert nitrogen gas to alter structures below the surface of the skin, creating conditions for regeneration and improvement in wrinkles, acne scarring, skin texture, tone, and discoloration,” says Newport Beach, California, plastic surgeon Dr. Larry Nichter. “This technique preserves the skin’s outer layers, which act as a protective biological dressing until new skin regenerates.” Dr. Nichter also says that clinical studies show improvements for as long as a year after treatment.
Portrait is not ideal for all skin types, however. “PSR treatments, like other resurfacing modalities, are most effective and safest in Fitzpatrick skin types 1–3 [pale to moderate tanning ability],” says Fort Myers, Florida, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Prendiville in a RealSelf Q&A. “Patients with greater pigmentation are at greater risk for hyper- or hypopigmentation.”
