Lumenis Resurfx Q&A
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The Lumenis Resurfx is the latest in non-ablative fractional (often referred to as “Fraxel®”) laser technology: a newly-FDA approved skin resurfacing option that prioritizes patient comfort as much as it does effectiveness. New collagen production and skin tightening are achieved by creating tiny zones of heat injury without ablating (vaporizing or removing) skin. Unlike Fraxel Restore which requires 6-8 passes over the skin, a Resurfx treatment is completed in one pass which increases comfort and decreases treatment time. The Resurfx device also offers hundreds of different shapes and densities to choose from which also allows for highly customizable treatments.
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Resurfx can be used to:
• Reduce wrinkles and fine lines including vertical lip lines around the mouth and crow’s feet around the eyes
• Soften the appearance of scars, including acne scars (gold standard treatment) and surgical scars
• Improve skin texture and tone
• Reduce sun-induced brown spots
• Refine pores
• Promote collagen production in the skin
Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is simply one of the best available treatments on the market to address a remarkable range of skin imperfections with minimal downtime.
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Because this is a limited downtime, non-invasive (gentle) procedure, Resurfx performs best with a series of monthly treatments. For optimal results, we recommend 4-6 treatment sessions.
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The procedure takes on average about 20 minutes to perform. With the application of prescription strength numbing cream prior to the procedure and skin cooling using cold air, you are unlikely to feel much, if any discomfort. Occasionally, patients feel the sensation of “sparklers” on the surface of the skin.
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Resurfx can be combined with an IPL photofacial for a photofractional treatment that addresses multiple skin concerns in a single procedure. The IPL targets brown and red discoloration of the skin such as sun-induced brown spots, tiny blood vessels (telangectasias), and rosacea, while the Resurfx works on fine lines and wrinkles, rough skin texture, and scarring. The downtime for the combined procedure is similar to the Resurfx procedure on its own.
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Yes, absolutely! Resurfx immediately followed by LaseMD during the same treatment session is comparable to a Fraxel DUAL treatment. This combination laser treatment uses two distinct wavelengths of light. The first wavelength of light (Resurfx) stimulates collagen and improves all aspects of skin texture. The second wavelength of light (LaseMD) targets hyperpigmentation (melanin) and results in exfoliation of this pigmentation within 2 weeks following treatment.
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After a Resurfx treatment, patients generally have a few days of mild swelling and redness followed by a rough texture (like a fine sandpaper) of the skin. If you have had IPL or LaseMD with your Resurfx treatment, you will notice that brown spots will turn darker immediately. Both the rough texture and dark spots will gradually flake off (“micro-exfoliation”) over the next 1-2 weeks. IPL will result in treated blood vessels also slowly fading over the next few weeks. With proper UV protection (we recommend a mineral-based sunscreen) and a preventative skin care regimen, the results of a series of treatments can last for years. Proper UV protection and a gentle skin care regimen are highly encouraged after your laser treatment for optimal results. Of note, makeup can be resumed the day after treatment.
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The Resurfx photo fractional laser treatment is very safe. Predictable side effects are mild in nature, and serious side effects (including scarring and changes in pigmentation) are rare and unlikely to occur in experienced hands. Keep in mind Resurfx is often used to treat scarring…