Facebook X-twitter Instagram
Book Your Consulation

Active FX Vs. Fraxel Vs. Pixel Vs. Profractional: What’s The Difference?

Category:
September 28, 2022

By :

coloradoskin1

There are quite a few fractionated resurfacing lasers out there. So exactly what is resurfacing and what are fractionated lasers. What makes one fractionated laser different from other?

There are quite a few fractionated resurfacing lasers out there. So exactly what is resurfacing and what are fractionated lasers. What makes one fractionated laser different from other?

What Exactly is Skin Resurfacing?

Resurfacing is a procedure where layers of damaged skin are removed usually by vaporization from a laser. It can be used to get rid of brown pigment caused by sun damage, decrease wrinkles, shrink pores and tighten skin. Vaporization is the process of using heat to instantly evaporate water out of the exposed tissue. Resurfacing not only removes the tissue on top but also heats the tissue below the level of vaporization causing collagen contraction and stimulation.

\"What

*Individual Results May Vary.

 

What Exactly is Fractional Resurfacing?

If resurfacing is like mowing a lawn where every blade of grass is cut to a somewhat shallow depth then fractional resurfacing is more like aerating a lawn. Fractional resurfacing pokes small but deep holes in the skin but leaves a certain amount of the skin completely untouched. Because these patch of undamaged skin patient heal much faster with minimal side effects.

Fractional resurfacing was developed at The Wellman Center of Photomedicine at Harvard around 2001. The original fractional laser did not destroy any tissue (non-ablative), it simply applied heat in order to stimulate new collagen formation.

This non-ablative (non-vaporizing) procedure required multiple treatments and has some significant limitations on efficacy. Around 2005 we started testing fractionated ablative (tissue vaporization) CO2 lasers (Active FX, Deep FX, Fraxel Repair and found that in a single treatment we could achieve results that were not attainable after 5 or 6 treatments with the non-ablative fractionated lasers.

Is There Any Downtime with Laser Skin Resurfacing?

The downtime of about 5-7 day was a huge improvement over traditional CO2 resurfacing (think mowing the law) that can take several months to heal.

\"Is

 

How Are These Laser Treatments Different?

Now the market is saturated with fractionated products and it is hard for patients to figure out which one is the best for them. The first thing that separates these devices is the actual type of laser. There are two main lasers used for resurfacing CO2 and erbium. The Active FX, Deep FX and Fraxel Re:pair are CO2 lasers. The Pixel and Profractional are erbium lasers. The CO2 lasers heat tissue much better causing more skin contraction and more collagen stimulation. They also cause much less bleeding than erbium lasers. The clinical results speak for themselves as much more skin damage can be removed with by a CO2.

Between the CO2 platforms FX (made by Lumenis) and the Fraxel (made by Reliant), the FX is much preferred by patients. In 2007 Dr. Robert Weiss performed a split face study at Johns Hopkins using the Active FX on one side and the Fraxel Re:pair on the other. Nine out of ten patients preferred both the comfort of the procedure and the results of the Active FX.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our highly trained staff members at Colorado Skin & Vein will reach out to your promptly to schedule your appointment.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

The Difference

Ok so the Lumenis FX gives the best results and the most patient preferred procedure. So then what is the difference between Active FX, Deep FX and Total FX? 

 

The Active and Deep FX are different heads that can be attached to the laser. The Active FX is more shallow (about 1/3 mm) and wide which is better for skin tightening, decreasing pore size and removing pigmented sun damage. The Deep FX is a narrow beam that goes deep (up to about 2mm) into the skin in order to treat wrinkles and scars. The Total FX is more a marketing term that describes using both heads during the same treatment (which is how the procedure is normally done).

\”The staff at Colorado Skin & Vein is very helpful and always makes sure to answer any questions during visits. I can tell that they truly care about the patient experience. Thank you Dr. Verebelyi and Team!\”

DC

Take the Next Step – Request A Consultation with Dr. Verebelyi

 

Dr. Verebelyi is always happy to meet with you to review your laser skin resurfacing needs.  Please fill out the form on this page or call 303.683.3235 to schedule an appointment. Colorado Skin & Vein serves Englewood and the greater Denver, CO area.

Picture of coloradoskin1

coloradoskin1

Categories:
Colorado's Vascular & Aesthetic Medicine

Stay Informed, Stay Healthy

Explore expert tips, guides, and the latest updates on vein health and treatments.

Read More Posts
Danielle Killingsworth, NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Danielle Killingsworth

NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator

Danielle is a Colorado native who brings more than 22 years of experience in the medical field. Throughout her career she has developed a diverse clinical background across infectious disease, general surgery, and pain management — giving her a well-rounded understanding of patient care and of what it takes to create a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience.

As Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein, Danielle combines that clinical knowledge with a genuine passion for aesthetics. She is dedicated to helping patients feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their aesthetic journey, from the initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care.

She believes one of the most rewarding parts of her career is building meaningful relationships with patients and helping them look and feel their very best.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, including her four boys, getting lost in a good book, and working in her garden. Fun fact: she is a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan.

Nikki Moyta, Operations Director at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Nikki Moyta

Operations Director

For over 26 years, Nikki has dedicated her career to the dermatology and aesthetics industry, building her experience from the ground up — starting in a patient scheduling call center, moving to the front desk, and rising to executive leadership overseeing multiple providers and locations.

Originally from Pittsburgh, she moved to Orlando before starting 10th grade and later attended Seminole State College of Florida. Her career in dermatology began in 2002, scheduling appointments for a multi-location practice. She grew quickly within the organization, moving into front-desk and checkout roles before being promoted to Office Manager in 2008. In 2012, her leadership and operational expertise led the CEO to seek her out for an expanded role overseeing multiple providers and locations — a position she held through 2022.

Outside of her professional career, Nikki is passionate about giving back to the community:

  • Community outreach
  • Voted “Cheerleader of the Practice”
  • 1st Place Winner — Miles for Melanoma

With a career built on leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for patients and the aesthetics industry, she is excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm to the Colorado community. When she is not in the office, you can find Nikki with her Siberian husky, Compass, somewhere on top of a mountain.

Betina Lacson, RVT at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Betina Lacson

RVT

Betina graduated from the Cardiovascular Technology Program at Grossmont College in California in 2020, and brings more than six years of experience in the duplex world of venous insufficiency. Much of her career has centered on superficial vein mapping and assisting in surgery while providing attentive patient care.

At Colorado Skin & Vein, she assists with venous ablation procedures as well as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. She is committed to quality care at every stage — from the initial consultation, through surgery, to post-operative appointments — making sure each patient feels fully supported.

In her free time, Betina loves Kizomba dancing with her Afro-Latin dance community, and can often be found at electronic dance music shows in different cities. If you are feeling generous, she will happily accept a karaoke room or an iced Thai milk tea.

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Brooke Owens

PA-C, MPAS

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS is a compassionate Physician Assistant who brings a strong clinical foundation, exceptional attention to detail, and a patient-centered approach to Colorado Skin & Vein.

Prior to joining the practice, Brooke spent several years in pediatric primary care, caring for patients with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. She became known for her thorough evaluations, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and ability to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. That experience strengthened her diagnostic expertise while reinforcing the importance of listening carefully, educating patients, and creating individualized treatment plans.

Drawn to the unique blend of medicine, procedures, and patient transformation, Brooke was excited to move into vascular medicine and aesthetic care. She is passionate about helping patients improve not only their health but also their confidence — whether they are seeking treatment for vein disease, skin concerns, or cosmetic enhancements. By combining broad medical experience with advanced specialty training and a meticulous eye for detail, she delivers safe, effective, and personalized care.

Brooke believes the best outcomes begin with trust. She values taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, answer questions, and ensure they feel informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Angel Croce, Staff Manager at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Angel Croce

Staff Manager

Angel has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. Her journey began in 2004, after her father suddenly passed away from a stroke. Losing him was a life-changing experience, and it inspired her to choose a career where she could help others and give patients and their families the care, compassion, and support they need during difficult times.

Throughout her career she has worked across cardiology, neurology, family practice, and urgent care — each experience helping her grow both personally and professionally. She now works in vascular care and aesthetics, where she enjoys building relationships with her patients, helping them understand their care, and making sure they feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.

Outside of work, Angel is a proud mom of two. Family is incredibly important to her, and in her spare time she loves being outdoors with her husband and their two dogs — hunting, fishing, and enjoying Colorado.

For Angel, healthcare is more than a career — it is personal. What started as a way to honor her father’s memory has become more than two decades of caring for others, and she is grateful to keep doing something that means so much to her every day.