When it comes to offering dermatologic services that utilize the latest technologies to ensure comfort and flawless results, the Center for Aesthetic and Laser Medicine (CALM) in Scottsdale will exceed your expectations. Pixel8-RF is one of the unique technologies we use to help our patients look and feel their very best, and as one of our office’s experts on Pixel8-RF, Dr. Jennifer Sawaya enjoys helping individuals understand this unique treatment and its many benefits. To help those who are interested in Pixel8-RF learn more about this exceptional service, Dr. Sawaya answered some of the questions she hears most often from her patients about Pixel8-RF.
What is Pixel8-RF?
Pixel8-RF is an innovative technology that combines radiofrequency (the “RF” in Pixel8-RF) waves with micro-needling. These combined technologies truly make Pixel8-RF an innovative treatment tool to address skin laxity and textural changes in the skin. This non-invasive treatment technique allows people to receive comfortable and quick treatments, then return to their daily routine right away. According to Dr. Sawaya, “By combining two types of treatment, micro-needling and radiofrequency waves, the Pixel8-RF device delivers beautiful results for more challenging cases than can be addressed with just one or the other of these technologies alone. The radiofrequency is especially helpful for skin tightening, while the microneedling aspect helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Most importantly, compared with other technologies that may allow us to achieve similar results, Pixel8-RF is much more comfortable for patients, and the entire process is completed in less time. The hand tool itself also lets us target small areas or sensitive parts of the body with higher levels of precision and generally more conservative treatment.”
What Services do Dermatologists Perform Using Pixel8-RF?
The Pixel8-RF hand tool really differentiates this technology from others like it. Specifically, the distance between the micro-needles makes it possible for the dermatologist to offer more uniform delivery of radiofrequency waves across the treatment area, and into the deeper layers of the skin for better results than have been possible with similar technologies. Because of this precise application and unique blend of technologies, the Pixel8-RF is effective for a range of dermatologic functions, including:
- Firming skin on the face or body
- Diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Reducing the appearance of scars (acne or injury-related)
- Improving the overall appearance and texture of the skin
- Tightening sagging skin on the face and neck
- Minimizing the size of pores
- Lifting droopy skin around the eyes (eyebrow or eyelid)
- Restoring more youthful appearance to hands
Am I a Candidate for Pixel8-RF?
Most patients who are interested in tightening and improving the appearance of their skin will be good candidates for treatment using the Pixel8 RF. According to Dr. Sawaya, “One of the best things about Pixel8-RF is that it’s safe for use in all skin types. Not only is the Pixel8-RF effective on just about any skin type, but it is also able to significantly reduce the risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation that are very common for people with darker skin tones after they receive laser treatments and treatment with other energy-based devices.”
How Does the Pixel8-RF Device Work?
As we’ve said above, the Pixel8-RF is unique because it uses both radiofrequency and micro-needling technologies. Micro-needling is a treatment that creates tiny perforations in the skin to stimulate the body’s production of new collagen at the superficial levels. Radiofrequency technologies have been used to deliver energy to the deeper layers of the skin in order to stimulate the production of collagen. The combination of these modalities ensures patients see improvement in the surface lines and wrinkles on their skin, as well as in their skin laxity.
Dr. Sawaya says, “The unique Pixel8-RF system makes it easy for the dermatologist to manage the depth of the needles, precisely plan the treatment area, customize the level of radiofrequency pulses, and more. In short, every Pixel8-RF treatment is 100% personalized for the individual patient. Because we can so carefully plan and monitor treatment, the procedure is much more precise and we can use Pixel8-RF on very sensitive areas like the skin around the eyes and nose.”
Do I Need to do Anything to Prepare for Pixel8-RF Treatment?
The Pixel8-RF device is versatile and provides effective treatment for almost any person looking to improve some aspect of their skin’s appearance. To ensure Pixel8-RF is the best option, we ask patients to visit us for a consultation appointment. During this introductory appointment, we’ll ask a series of questions, and if we decide to move forward with a Pixel8-RF session, you’ll receive specific instructions for your individual treatment plan.
What Should I Expect During My Pixel8-RF Treatment Session?
On average, we recommend patients have 3-4 treatments to achieve their desired aesthetic results. These treatments are typically performed anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks apart. During each visit, you will arrive one hour early to have numbing cream placed on the areas of treatment. After an hour, your skin will be cleansed and prepared for the procedure. The procedure itself takes anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the treatment area. The depth of the needles is controlled by your dermatologist throughout the process. Once we’ve placed the micro-needles, the radiofrequency pulses are passed through them. The tiny perforations in the skin prompt the body to start healing itself and producing collagen and elastin that leads to skin that is full, youthful, and taut.
What Should I Expect After Pixel8-RF Treatment?
After your Pixel8-RF session, you may notice some redness, swelling, and inflammation in the treatment area. These symptoms should diminish within 24-48 hours of treatment, and in most cases, all side effects will have resolved themselves within a week. For the first day after your procedure, you should forego the use of all cosmetics and skincare products apart from a very mild cleanser and application of a healing ointment. You also should protect the treated area from sunlight for the first few days.
Will I See Results Right Away?
No. The process of collagen regeneration will occur over several months that follow your treatment series. Because the results can take several months to appear, we usually recommend waiting six to eight weeks between each session before we schedule another treatment visit.
Do I Need More than One Pixel8-RF Session?
The number of treatments each patient will need to achieve their desired outcome with vary and will be determined with your dermatologist.
Are the Results Permanent?
Each person’s results will vary based on their age, skin health, daily UV (sun) exposure, and habits like smoking and excessive drinking, but the increased collagen and elastin production can last for years for many people. That said, patients will continue to lose collagen with the natural aging process. Dr. Sawaya says, “I usually recommend retreatment every few months combined with a good daily skincare routine to maintain the results as long as possible.”
How Can I Find Out More?
If you’re ready to schedule a consultation to discuss Pixel8-RF with Dr. Sawaya and the CALM team in Scottsdale, simply fill out our online request form. Once we receive your information, one of our team members will be in touch to discuss available times to
