GET YOUTHFUL SKIN WITH ACTIVE FX, DEEP FX & TOTAL FX
As we age, our facial skin starts losing its youthful appearance and develops wrinkles, fine lines, brown age spots, acne scars, skin discoloration and other damages. With the laser technology, we can dramatically improve the texture, tone, discoloration and aging signs without any invasive measure. The latest advanced technology of fractional lasers enhances the benefits of laser treatment, and the fractioned CO2 laser skin resurfacing can be done without any discomfort, giving you younger looks. There are various types of procedures involved in skin resurfacing, among them the most promising procedures are Active FX, Deep FX and Total FX. The procedure can reduce the signs of aging and rejuvenate your skin.
Now let us see how Active FX, Deep FX and Total FX treatment benefits you.
What is Active FX?
Active FX is a fractional laser procedure in which the high-energy laser beam is applied on the targeted area to reduce the aging signs and it also stimulates the collagen production.
What is Deep FX?
In Deep FX treatment, micro-beams of laser target the skin deep dermal layers and stimulate the formation of new collagen over the treated area.
Lumenis UltraPulse Encore CO2 technology used in Active FX and Deep FX:
Lumenis (a brand of laser equipment) offers a state-of-the-art CO2 laser device, called as UltraPulse. The device uses high-power-short-duration pulse technology that maximizes the comfort level of the patient and minimizes the downtime of the treatment. Due to its versatility, this CO2 laser device treats a broad range of superficial conditions as well as deeper conditions.
What is the difference between Active FX, Deep FX and Total FX?
All these three terms are used to describe a CO2 fractionated skin resurfacing treatment which is performed with the Lumenis UltraPulse laser. Active FX is used for large treatment area as the columns of light are larger and more superficial. Deep FX uses narrow columns of light that target deep layers of skin. When Active FX and Deep FX are performed on the same treatment area then it is referred as Total FX.
What is the ideal candidacy for the treatment?
The candidates for Active FX should have noticeable aging signs which include wrinkles, fine lines, lip lines, crow’s feet, creases, brown dark spots or discoloration, sagging skin and acne scars. The candidates for Deep FX should have deeper wrinkles, folds, jowls, lip lines, crow’s feet and deep acne scarring. The treatment isn’t recommended for those having the conditions of broken capillaries or rosacea.
How does Active FX, Deep FX and Total FX work?
The fractionated skin resurfacing procedure uses a laser light to remove the upper damaged layer of the skin. After the removal of damaged layer, the healing process starts during which the skin becomes tightened, pigmented spots improved and new collagen production is stimulated which reduces fine lines, wrinkles, scars and helps in firmness of the skin. The Active FX, Deep FX and Total FX unlike old CO2 lasers, uses fractionated beams of laser that treats columns of skin rather than the entire area.
What is the procedure of Active/Deep FX?
The procedure is performed on an out-patient setting and at the start of the procedure; the doctor applies a numbing cream on the treatment area. After half an hour, the doctor directs a high-energy laser beam directly on the surface of the targeted skin. The laser removes the upper damaged skin layer and then the healing process begins which involves new collagen production that tightens the skin, reducing superficial or deeper wrinkles, fine lines and scars, correcting discoloration, filling in the creases and reducing other imperfections.
The time of the treatment is usually last around 30-60 minutes, but the duration of the time depends on the treatment areas and if you are getting Total FX or only Active or Deep FX.
After the procedure:
During the recovery time, the patients may feel slightly discomfort. The treated skin will feel slightly dry and appear pink but within one week, the top, damaged layers will flake off and new layers start forming while the skin also return to its normal color. The doctor advises a post-treatment care plan which the patient should follow at home.
What is the recovery time and result of the treatment?
It is the most important benefit of this new treatment that it has a shorter recovery time, minimal downtime and less patient discomfort. Typical recovery time is 4-6 days during which the patients are advised to follow the post-treatment care plan and rest at home.
The patient sees visible results immediately after the first laser treatment session with improved skin tone and texture and this improvement continues over the next few months. However, the new collagen production continues to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and revitalizes the skin that can lasts for months and even for a year. The results are long-term but not permanent but you can make them to last for longer time with proper skincare routine and sun protection.
How many treatment sessions are needed?
Patients need to receive a series of treatment sessions for the best results and normally 3-5 treatment sessions are needed every 3-8 weeks. For the exact treatment plan, the doctor analyzes the skin type, age etc and needs of the patient and then tailors a personalized treatment plan.
What are benefits of Active/Deep FX?
- Reduces wrinkles, fine lines, soften deep frown lines
- Causes an immediate collagen contraction
- Stimulates new collagen formation for plumping the skin
- Improves skin tone & texture, folds and scars
- Eliminates or lightens brown spots
- Minimal downtime
- Short recovery time
- Less discomfort during the procedure
- Long-lasting results
What are the side effects of Active/Deep FX?
The side effects are mild which may include some minor redness or swelling after the procedure but they can last for few hours. Some skin flaking (damaged skin) may also occur at the treatment area which can be treated with moisturizer or gentle cleanser.
Book an appointment with Marie Hayag, MD in NYC:
If you would like to have more questions about Active/Deep FX or you want to treat your aging signs, it’s best to book an appointment with American Board Certified Dermatologist Marie Hayag, MD who is qualified skin care specialist to address your particular concerns. She utilizes her medical and scientific knowledge about lasers to achieve the results through a proper treatment plan.