What is Active FX?

 

Active FX refers to a new technology of fractional CO2 laser.  The laser works by making minute points of entry into the skin, down to the collagen layer, resulting in contraction of the skin.

How does this laser differ from older CO2 lasers?

Older CO2 lasers treated entire blocks of skin whereas fractional technology means that channels are made at intervals in the skin.  The main advantage is the skin heals a lot faster (5 days as opposed to 2 weeks) and there are less side effects. 

Indications for use of Active FX.

Skin resurfacing

Skin rejuvenation

Wrinkles

Sun spots (solar lentigenes)

Acne scars

What is the procedure?

The skin is first anaesthetised using EMLA which is left on for 1 hour.  The process of rejuvenation with the active FX machine then begins, treating blocks of skin, block after block, row after row, until the entire face is treated.  The process takes about 1/2 hour.  The skin is then covered with vaseline which is left on the skin.  Dormicum may be taken to relieve pain during the procedure.

What is the aftercare?

Continue applying vaseline until the skin is healed

Take Zelitrex or Famvir for 5 days to prevent Herpes injection.

Myprodol may be taken for pain.

Apply suncreeen minimum SPF 15 and keep away from direct sunlight  for 1 month (Vitasure day cream SPF 30 is ideal for this..

Pigmented skin types require pre- and post bleaching with hydroquinone for 1 month before and after treatment. 

The face may be washed with plain water until healing takes place.  Thereafter, a gentle cleanser may be used.  Vitasure gentle cleanser is recommended for this purpose. 

What happens after treatment?

The skin begins to develop pinpoint crusting the next day.  This becomes more prominent by the third day and begins peeling by the 4th day.  Peelling is usually complete by the 5th day.

Any further precautions?

Continue applying sunscreen for a further month and if possible continue indefinitely.  This should be done anyway whether with or without FX.

Before and after one month of a single treatment of Active FX for acne scars