What is a Pixel Treatment?
A Pixel treatment is a series of 3-5 treatments utilizing fractional ablative skin resurfacing technology, a new way to resurface skin and rejuvenate collagen with minimal downtime. It is intended to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize pore size, scarring and stretch marks. With this new technique, only a small portion of the skin, between 20%-30% of the skin is treated, leaving the untreated skin to rejuvenate and repair the treatment area. Pixel treatments result in more youthful-appearing skin. Typically patients see improvement in as little as one week after the treatment, with compete results seen in approximately 6 weeks.
What are the advantages of Pixel?
Smoother skin with finer lines, improved texture, improved acne scarring and stretch marks, and more youthful looking skin with minimal or no downtime from work or play.
What are the causes of fine lines and aging skin?
There are two types of aging, Intrinsic and Extrinsic. Intrinsic aging is the normal, chronological aging and can be influenced by genetic tendencies. Extrinsic aging is the result of environmental exposures, including smoking, pollution, stress, and alcohol consumption. However sun exposure is the primary cause of premature extrinsic aging. Up to 90% of the visible skin changes attributed to aging are caused by sun exposure. UVA and UVB rays both contribute to skin cancers, and premature aging through free radical damage.
How does the treatment work?
The skin is prepared and exfoliated prior to treatment. Protective eyewear is placed and treatment initiated. Patient’s report feeling a slight snapping sensation, and after the treatment is completed, the treatment area feels like a sunburn. Three to five treatments are performed at monthly intervals.
Are there any other conditions that can be treated with the Pixel?
Yes, Pixel treatments will help patients who suffer from photo-aging of the skin, pigmentation from sun exposure (age spots). It can significantly reduce fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth. It can also improve texture in the upper and lower eyelid.
How often will I need additional treatments?
After your initial series treatments it is recommended to have follow-up treatments one to two times annually. However, we have patients who return every six months for a follow-up treatment because they love the way the treatment improves their appearance.
Are there any conditions that this treatment won’t help?
It won’t treat broken capillaries, or facial redness and flushing, and significant pigmentation or melasma. Photofacial is a better treatment for that. It is not a substitute for a face-lift and will not help baggy or sagging skin, although some tightening and firming of skin is seen with this procedure. Laser Skin Tightening can be done in conjunction with the Pixel to further improve sagging skin around the jawline and neck.
Are there any contraindications to this procedure?
Yes. It is not indicated in patients with connective tissue disease or autoimmune disorders. Pixel is not recommended during pregnancy or recently sun-tanned skin. It cannot be used on patients taking Accutane or for six months after stopping Accutane. The procedure is not usually done on patients with active acne cysts and large pustules. The same is true for highly active Rosacea. Most photosensitive medications such as antibiotics, anti-anxiety, sulfa drugs, birth control pills and anti-hypertensive medications are not a contraindication. Care must be taken in patients who get fever blister attacks on the face. An anti-herpes medication can be taken prophylactically.
How much improvement will I see?
Typically 70-95% overall improvement is seen in most patients. In order to yield those results, multiple treatments are required and adherence to a skin care regimen is paramount
What if I have a low pain threshold or sensitive skin – can I still be treated?
Yes. Few patients use an oral anesthesia, but most patients find the treatment only moderately uncomfortable, and no topical anesthesia is used. Patients may take some Ibuprofen prior to the treatment. We have extensive experience with patients who have sensitive skin, always listen to their concerns, and treat accordingly so that the most sensitive skin type is treated safely.
Who can administer the treatments?
The State Law of California requires a Licensed Registered Nurse or above to provide this treatment. Dr. Mosser and Jennifer Fick, RN, Director of Clinical Operations have personally provided one on one, hands-on training to all our practitioners and personally direct and review all treatments performed.
Is this like laser resurfacing?
No. Laser Resurfacing is much more invasive and ablative, requiring time away from work and usual every day activities. Downtime is at least two weeks and up to a few months for the redness in the treated areas to diminish. Although it works well for significant lines, skin laxity and pigmentation, Fractional Ablative skin resurfacing provides less downtime, has fewer risks, and allows patients to return to regular work, family and social commitments almost immediately.
Can I accomplish the same results with chemical peels, microdermabrasion or Photofacial?
No, although Pixel treatments are used in conjunction with Photofacial, skin tightening procedures, Dermasweep and other facial procedures, such as Botox and fillers for an overall rejuvenation effect.
Can I treat other areas of my body?
The Pixel can be used on the neck and chest, but is also frequently used to treat sun damaged areas on all parts of the body. It is also utilized to improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks on the body.
If you would like more information about fractional skin resurfacing with Pixel or would like to schedule a free consulation, contact the Epi Center MedSpa today.
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