Pixel Laser Resurfacing

Pixel Laser Resurfacing, or Fractional Skin Resurfacing, is a treatment that dramatically improves the appearance of the skin with minimal discomfort and without the need for significant downtime. Fractional resurfacing lasers are different than traditional resurfacing lasers in that they target smaller areas of the skin with each pass of the laser. The idea behind this treatment is that treating a small part of the skin’s surface with the laser results reduces healing time. At Elite Medical Skin and Laser Center, we perform Pixel Laser resurfacing on the face, neck, chest, and most other areas of the body.

Pixel Laser Resurfacing and Your Skin Concerns

Pixel Laser Resurfacing is effective for treating a variety of common skin concerns. The treatment tightens loose skin by stimulating new collagen growth, resulting in continued improvement up to six months after treatment. We use Pixel Laser Resurfacing to treat some of the following skin concerns:

• Acne Scars
• Fine Lines & Wrinkles
• Rough Skin Texture
• Sun Damage
• Hyperpigmentation
• Enlarged Pores
• Stretch Marks
• Surgical Scars

How does Pixel Laser Resurfacing work?

Think of a picture or a digital photo that requires a touch-up or repair. The way you might restore a damaged painting a small section at a time or modify a digital photo pixel by pixel. Pixel Laser Resurfacing only affects a minuscule portion of your skin using tiny microscopic laser points. The Pixel laser creates these tiny laser holes in the skin, removing part of the top layer and leaving the surrounding skin cells intact to serve as a reservoir for rapid healing. The laser stimulates new collagen growth to smooth and tighten the skin.

Does this treatment hurt?

There is some discomfort during the laser treatment. We treat small sections of the skin and apply a topical numbing cream to relieve the heat sensation. We also use a Zimmer, which blows cold air over the skin to help numb the skin during the treatment. After we finish your Pixel treatment, you will feel a sunburn-like sensation. We also provide you with Aquaphor and instructions for a vinegar and water solution to use at home for the first 24 hours as needed for any discomfort and to promote healing.

What can I expect after treatment?

The treated area will be red and swollen for the first 24-48 hours. The skin will begin to flake and peel on day three or four. This is especially noticeable during skin cleansing. The skin on the face usually heals after five days, though there may still be some redness. The skin on areas of the body other than the face may take twice as long to heal because the skin turns over more slowly and does not have as many oil glands. Most patients can begin to apply mineral makeup after 3-4 days. We will schedule you back for a follow-up appointment and, if needed, an exfoliation treatment in 2-4 weeks to complete the process of eliminating the dead skin cells and rehydrating your skin.

Are there any special instructions to follow after treatment?

We will provide you with all the skincare products you need during the healing process, including a topical numbing cream and a gentle cleanser. We recommend that you avoid any other products until you are completely healed. You must also keep your skin moisturized during this time.

If you have a history of cold sores, we recommend you take a prescription for an antiviral medication. You should start taking this medication before your treatment. This medication will help prevent a cold sore breakout while you are healing from your treatment.

Laser-treated skin is highly sensitive to sun exposure for at least a year after treatment. Wearing sunscreen is a must after any laser treatment, so you should use one of our Elta MD sunscreens on the treated area while in the sun.

How often do I need treatments?

We suggest having a Pixel treatment as frequently as one month apart for best results.  Patients usually need 3-5 treatments for conditions such as acne scarring. For skin rejuvenation, we can combine Pixel with other treatments.  Schedule your consultation today!

 

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