September 29, 2022
Unless you’re one of the extremely lucky few who has never experienced an acne blemish, you’ve probably tried a variety of ways to prevent and treat those bothersome breakouts. Although it is most common in teenagers because of hormonal changes related to puberty, acne can affect people of all ages. The glands in our pores produce oil to help remove dead cells and keep our skin hydrated, but dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate on the skin when too much oil is produced. This clogs the pores and can cause blemishes. Washing your skin with a mild, non-drying soap in the morning, at night, and after exercising can help prevent acne by removing the pore-clogging agents. To fend off acne, most of us know what to avoid, such as using greasy cosmetics and touching our faces, but it may surprise many of you that the following tendencies can also lead to acne. Flying The air inside of airplanes is usually a combination of air from outside the cabin and highly filtered recirculated air. Because the air at higher altitudes is very dry, our skin is exposed to very low humidity, which can cause the cells to become dehydrated. These dry skin cells build up and absorb oil in the pores, causing acne. To help you get to your destination without stowaway pimples, apply a hydrating serum before your flight and gently exfoliate your skin after landing. Grimy Brushes Many people take the time to find cosmetics that will not clog their pores, but they may not realize that their makeup applicators can be an acne-causing culprit. The bristles in makeup brushes easily collect dirt, oil, and bacteria in a short amount of time. Wash your makeup brushes once a week with shampoo and warm water, and let them air-dry on a clean cloth or paper towel. This will decrease your chances of experiencing a breakout from using dirty brushes on your skin. Excess Exfoliation Using an exfoliating scrub (after cleansing first) is a great way to remove dead skin cells and promote healthy skin. However, exfoliating too often can dry and irritate the skin, which can cause inflammation and the overproduction of oil, leading to clogged pores. Depending on your skin type, scrubs should be used only once or twice a week. Since this process can dry out the skin, make sure to moisturize after exfoliation. If you’ve tried to eliminate stubborn acne to no avail, Colorado Skin & Vein offers Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). This therapy combines a topical chemical and light to eliminate resistant acne and other skin lesions. Please call (303) 683-3235 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to healthy, clear skin!
September 29, 2022
As a provider who has been working with the skin for over 15 years, one of the most common questions I get from my patients is how to permanently treat cellulite. For years, cellulite creams, mesotherapy, and procedures like Vanquish were used with minimal to no effectiveness. In fact, up until about three years ago, the single best therapy I could recommend was regular deep tissue massage. Over the last few years, a couple of procedures have actually started to amass some real clinical data. The two that have shown the most promise are Cellfina™ and Cellulaze™, so today I will compare the two. What Do They Do? Let’s start with what the procedures actually do. Both Cellfina™ and Cellulaze™ target the vertical bands of connective tissue that pull the skin down from below, which causes cellulite dimples. The theory is that when these bands are interrupted, the tension on the skin is released, resulting in smoother skin on the surface. However, the method for releasing these bands is significantly different between the two devices, so let’s take some time to discuss the how of each procedure. Cellfina™ Cellfina™ uses mechanical release to create smooth, cellulite-free skin. This means that there is no heat, no laser, and no chemical; the bands are simply, physically cut. During the Cellfina™ procedure, local numbing is used over the area that is being treated. A tiny blade, less than 2mm, is then used to focally cut these bands at a consistent depth, usually set to 6mm. The procedure only releases the bands under the dimple, so there is no sagging in the surrounding skin. The Cellfina™ procedure usually takes about 45 minutes, and patients are back to regular activities within 24 to 48 hours. Cellulaze™ The Cellulaze™ procedure, in contrast, uses a directional firing laser to disrupt the tissue bands in question. This involves numbing larger areas of skin and treating the entire area. There is no fixed depth gauge, so achieving a consistent depth is up to the provider and introduces significant variation in the procedure. The laser creates some heat, which may help with tightening tissue (this tightening has been shown in studies with Smartlipo™ but not necessarily Cellulaze™), but in some cases, causes damage to the delicate vascular beds in the superficial skin, which can leave permanent discoloration on the skin (Erythema Ab Igne-like conditions). The procedure usually takes one to two hours. Patients can typically return to their normal activities within the first week. Which One Is “Worth It”? Two of the most important factors when comparing these two procedures are the clinical results and patient satisfaction. This is where the results start to show a clear winner. A quick check on RealSelf shows that the “Worth It” rating for Cellfina™ is almost 90 percent, while the Cellulaze™ rating is only about 56 percent. These results are also reflected in the treatment’s clinical data, which have been published in peer-reviewed journals. The Cellfina™ procedure has shown patient satisfaction scores over 90 percent. Cellfina™ has shown 90 percent patient satisfaction even after three years, indicating that it is likely permanent. The cost of either procedure normally ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 depending on geographic location and the size of the area to be treated. If you are interested in learning more about Cellfina™, please call 303-683-3235 to schedule your consultation or fill out our online contact form.
September 29, 2022
Are you interested in achieving younger, tighter-looking skin – but not exactly thrilled by the prospect of going under the knife? Want to get facelift-like results without paying facelift-like costs? If so, you may be a good candidate for a non-surgical facelift. Let’s take a closer look at how much a non-surgical facelift costs in Denver. *Individual Results May Vary. The Cost of a Non-Surgical Facelift in Denver According to RealSelf, the average cost of a non-surgical facelift is about $4,300, with ranges of $2,500 to $6,500. This represents the entire cost of the procedure, so you shouldn’t be surprised by extra costs associated with surgery or medications (which often happens with traditional facelift procedures). In Denver, we’re closer to the middle of the pack, so you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $4,500, depending on the areas that you want to get treated. For example, a total non-surgical facelift will cost more than just treating your neckline and jowls. 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 Non-Surgical Facelift with Profound RF We’re proud to be one of the few Profound RF providers in the Denver area, which is a leading technology used to deliver exceptional non-surgical facelift results. Here’s how it works: Profound RF uses radiofrequency energy (that’s what the RF stands for) to heat up the subdermal tissue of the targeted area, thus creating an almost-immediate tightening of the skin. This result helps correct sagging around the jawline and eyes, and can even help improve the appearance of crow’s feet and nasolabial folds. Additionally, the heat triggers the body’s collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid production, resulting in a heightened cellular turnover and younger-looking skin. “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 Want to learn how to get a non-surgical facelift in Denver with Profound RF? Schedule a consultation at Colorado Skin & Vein in Englewood, CO. (303) 683-3235
September 29, 2022
Varicose veins are caused when the valve directing blood flow back to the heart weakens and malfunctions, allowing blood to pool or flow backward (reflux). They are the most common sign of underlying vascular injury, and they are more than a cosmetic concern. Without treatment, varicose veins can contribute to more vascular complications. Dr. Verebelyi, one of Colorado’s prominent vein surgeons, is one of just a few physicians certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, and he can treat your varicose veins and restore your vascular health. *Individual Results May Vary. How Does Vein Ablation Work? Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (EVRF) Ablation is simply a way of using heat to close damaged veins. Radiofrequency has become our go to procedure for ablation due to its excellent results and minimal post procedural discomfort. During the procedure a small catheter is placed inside the damaged vein. The damaged portions are heated to the point where the body will remove the vessel over the next several months without any invasive surgery. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is another way to add heat to vessels or order to close them. Through the early 2000s this was preferred vein closure treatment. However, as radiofrequency became more effective in the last 10 years, patients have shown a clear preference for the shortened discomfort time associated with RF versus laser. Laser is still used sometimes if a patient has a very short segment of diseased vessel or occasionally for very large vessels. Why Do I Need To Treat My Vein If I Cannot See Any Major Varicose Veins? Over time, after the valves within leg veins fail, other medical problems follow if they are not treated. Aside from the obvious superficial vessels, varicose veins and swelling several other serious medical issues eventually develop. Restless Leg Syndrome and night time cramping get worse the longer veins are left untreated. More serious skin problems such as skin thickening, ulcers and blood clots will also develop over time. Unfortunately there are no prescription medications or supplements that can effectively treat the vein problem. Although compression can help decrease symptoms it does not stop the vessel from refluxing, so closing the damaged vessels in order to re-route the blood into the healthy vessels has become the standard of care for treatment. 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 Am I a Good Candidate for Vein Ablation? If you suffer with enlarged, twisted veins that are the hallmark of underlying vein disease, you are not only a candidate, but should seek immediate treatment in order to prevent further damage to your vascular system. Any patient with symptoms of heaviness, aching, Restless Leg Syndrome, leg swelling or varicose vein will get significant relief with proper vein treatment. Untreated vein disease can lead to further health concerns like those above which require much more intense medical attention. What is an EVRF Treatment Like? EVRF for vein ablation was originally developed around 1999. As the procedure has matured, it has become extremely effective and the treatment of choice for refluxing leg veins. Dr. Verebelyi has done several thousand of these treatments. He focuses on not only ensuring the procedure is as safe and effective as possible but also making sure all of our patients are incredibly comfortable both during and after procedures. The micro puncture to place the tiny catheter is so small it requires only a tiny bandage to close. The total treatment time is only about thirty minutes to an hour and patients are able to do mild exercise the same day. Patients may experience some mild swelling afterwards but should only expect minimal discomfort that can easily be controlled with Ibuprofen. Is There Any Downtime with These Vein Treatments? You’ll need to wear a compression bandage for a few days following your treatment, but you will be up and walking the same day. Light activity is encouraged the day of your procedure and may be increased each day following the treatment. What Results Can I Expect? Vein ablation is highly successful, with Dr. Verebelyi’s patients experiencing a success rate of 98% or better, even after four years. The other good news is that many symptoms begin to improve within a few days of the procedure. Dr. Verebelyi is one of the most highly trained vascular physicians in the country, and he is a fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS). Colorado Skin & Vein is an ASLMS preceptor site, and Dr. Verebelyi has trained many of the field’s top physicians. He has also worked nationally as a legal expert to explain the physiology behind laser energy treatments. There really is no better expert to handle your vascular treatment than Dr. Verebelyi and the Colorado Skin & Vein team. “All of my expectations were met, friendly and informative. I am looking forward to my procedures! Thank you, Renae” RH Take the Next Step To request your vein treatment consultation with us, please call (303) 683-3235 or fill out our online contact form today. Colorado Skin & Vein serves Englewood, Centennial, Parker, Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock and the greater Denver, CO area.
September 29, 2022
One of the most laborious chores we have in our grooming routines is hair removal. We shave, we wax, and we pluck, risking cuts and pain all in an effort for smooth, hair-free skin. So imagine for a moment what it would be like not to have to shave, wax, or pluck. Think about the time and money saved over a lifetime of not having to buy razor replacements and schedule waxing appointments. This can be your reality with Colorado Skin & Vein. *Individual Results May Vary. How Does Laser Hair Removal Work? The Cynosure Apogee Elite laser is one of the most advanced on the market for laser hair removal because it’s two laser platforms in one. The 755nm Alexandrite laser works wonders for those with lighter skin tones and hair, and the 1064nm Nd:YAG energy excels for patients with darker or tanned skin. We personally tested several machines and conducted extensive research and the Apogee Elite system is hands down the best for our patients. For many clinics, the patient’s hair pigmentation determines which kind of laser energy is required. With the Apogee Elite’s laser beam combiner, we can deliver both wavelengths of the laser system at the same time, through the same handpiece. We also have the ability to switch between the wavelengths without switching handpieces, saving you time with every treatment. It doesn’t matter your skin pigment or hair type, we can treat you. Follicles are properly targeted with the most effective energy for the entirety of your treatment program. It’s also one of the most comfortable lasers on the market, producing a burst of cooling air to your skin during the treatment for minimal pain. With a flexible spot size, we can treat areas large or small in record time. Am I a Good Candidate? With the Cynosure Apogee Elite laser, almost anyone is a candidate for laser hair removal no matter your skin or hair type. Call today for a consultation. 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 How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost? Because only 30% of hair is in the active growth phase at one time, and the laser treatment can only target these follicles, multiple treatments are necessary. Hair begins to shed within 2-3 weeks, and you’ll have visibly thinner hair after 2-3 treatments. The average cost of laser hair removal in the US varies depending on the size of the area being treated, the number of treatment areas, the thickness and quantity of the hair, and the geographical location and experience of your provider. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons puts the average cost around $430, while RealSelf.com shows an average closer to $875 with a range between $300-$3,000. To further pinpoint it, the breakdown by body area is as follows: Arms: $350-$500 Face and Neck: $600-$900 Bikini line: $350-$500 Back: $600-$900 Chest: $350-$600 Legs (lower only): $600-$850 We understand cost is a major factor in considering laser hair removal treatments, and that’s why we offer financing options to all our patients, including 0% interest for 6 months to all who qualify. Package pricing is also available to ensure our patients receive the best deal possible. Laser hair removal is an investment in yourself, your peace of mind, and your confidence. Dr. Verebelyi and the Colorado Skin & Vein team are passionate about helping patients restore that confidence and rediscover the beauty within so that it can shine on the outside. “I went in to Dr. Verebelyi for Bio-T he explained the procedure completely and was very professional. I was so please with the office that I had some hair removal done. The office is always helpful and prompt with scheduling. I’m very happy with my results and if I have any question they’re glad to answer every thing to my satisfaction.” BJ Take the First Step – Request A Consultation To request your laser hair removal consultation with us, please call (303) 683-3235 or fill out our online contact form today. Colorado Skin & Vein serves Englewood and the greater Denver, CO area.
September 29, 2022
As we age, we accumulate knowledge and experiences that can enrich our lives. Unfortunately, the passage of time also takes a toll on our bodies. Many people are aware of some of the causes that accelerate aging, such as exposure to the sun and other harmful elements, and the results of aging, such as wrinkled skin and weakened bodies. However, many people don’t consider how aging works within our bodies. Aging can be defined as the gradual changes in an organism that harm the body’s ability to function. These significant changes occur at the cellular level, and Aubrey de Grey, a Cambridge researcher and theoretician on the study of aging, has identified the seven classes of aging damage in the body. Here are three types of cellular changes that are likely to reveal your age. 1. Cell Loss and Shrinking Tissue Cell division is a process by which the cells divide and create new, healthy cells to replace cells that are worn out. Over time, cell division slows down, and old cells die faster than new cells are able to be produced. This causes the body’s tissues to shrink and weaken, and just one of the many effects of this is reduced volume in the face as the connective tissues that support the structure of the skin deteriorate. Exercise can help improve cell functioning and division. A TIME Magazine article, “How Exercise Works at the Cellular Level,” explains the findings of two studies that suggest how exercise is beneficial to the body’s cells. If you have wrinkles and fine lines as a result of lost facial volume, Dr. Verebelyi offers injectable fillers to plump the skin and improve these signs of aging. 2. Too Many Cells (Cellular Senescence) Cellular senescence is when cells reach the point that they can no longer divide but refuse to die. When this happens, there is no room for the healthy cells to divide and create new cells. To remove damaged cells and reveal healthy, beautiful skin, Colorado Skin & Vein offers a variety of treatments, such as dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and CO2 Fractional Skin Resurfacing. 3. Extracellular Protein Cross-Links Sometimes there are too many cross-linking proteins between cells in a tissue, causing rigidity and a loss of elasticity in the tissue. When this occurs in the arteries it can lead to high blood pressure, and when this occurs in the skin it can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. Extracellular protein cross-links are also seen in the process of wound repair when collagen (a protein) cross-links to form scar tissue. If you are experiencing skin laxity and wrinkles, injectable fillers and neurotoxins and Ulthera skin tightening can help restore a more youthful appearance. Scars can also be improved with injectable fillers or scar revision treatment. Dr. Verebelyi’s practice offers numerous treatments to improve signs of aging so that you can look as young as you feel! For more information, please call (303) 683-3235 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation.
September 29, 2022
Skin tightening treatments have made a lot of promises over the past 15 years. From Thermage back in 2002, to Cutera’s Titan procedure in 2005 and more recently Ulthera and Profound. The early technology showed potential, but the results were inconsistent. Over the past year, new clinical data has emerged showing more consistent and effective results using Profound, which is why our office brought it to the Denver market. The Profound skin tightening treatment has shown a significantly better response rate than any of its’ predecessors and is reported to be 100% effective. How Does Profound Work? Profound uses radio frequency (RF) to heat the skin’s inner layer of tissue (the dermis) to an exact temperature for an exact period time. This ensures maximum stimulation for the creation of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, while protecting delicate structural proteins that previous devices could destroy. The balance between stimulating skin tightening molecules and protecting the current tissue structure produces more dynamic and consistent results that were not possible with older procedures. Can I Get Even Better Results? Is there a way to improve a skin tightening procedure that reports a 100% response rate and already produces beautiful results? The answer is yes! It’s done by adding a procedure to address the epidermal (surface tissue) issues that go along with skin inelasticity in the dermis. Since Profound effectively treats the dermis, we needed an ideal treatment for the epidermis. The perfect fit turns out to be the CO2 laser. This is not the fractionated CO2 laser that seems to be advertised by so many aesthetic clinics. That procedure creates thin columns of damaged skin which penetrate the dermis and cover about 20% of the tissue. This can improve texture but does not result in much tightening. The traditional CO2 treatment we perform covers the entire surface area and has been shown to significantly tighten skin. What’s the Difference Between Fractionated CO2 and Traditional CO2? Fractional CO2 is akin to aerating a lawn: creating small holes that only cover a certain percentage of the treatment area. This is best for deeper lines and scarring. Traditional CO2 is more like mowing a lawn: it’s a shallower treatment but covers 100% of the surface area. This is idea for treating pigment, as well as smoothing and tightening the skin. With Profound treating the dermis so effectively, traditional CO2 is proving to be the ideal accompaniment to treat the epidermis. *Individual Results May Vary. What Results Can I Expect? By combining two treatments we are able to maximize tightening as well as significantly reduce wrinkles, remove dark spots, and smooth crepe-like skin texture. The synergy between the dermal Profound and epidermal CO2 treatments are producing results that we have not been able to obtain with any other combination of treatments. Patients have smoother, tighter and brighter skin within the first week from the CO2. Within about a month the tightening from Profound starts to develop. Over the next several months jowls tighten, turkey necks become less wrinkled, sagging lids open and the entire treatment area becomes tighter. We’ve also been exploring this combination over many other body areas such as arms, knees and abdomens to get rid of crepe-like texture and cellulite that can develop as we age. Overall, there is no other non-surgical combination that has come close to producing the results that we see with the Profound and CO2 combination. 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 Profound with Traditional CO2 is Available in Denver We are currently one of the only offices in the US combining these two procedures and are helping to rewrite the protocols for non-surgical skin tightening treatment. We have also worked with the manufacturer of Profound to become a Denver training facility and teach other providers how to safely and effectively perform these procedures. Take the Next Step Are you ready to tighten your skin and reduce wrinkles with Profound and Traditional CO2? Schedule your consultation at Colorado Skin & Vein in Englewood, CO today. (303) 683-3235
September 29, 2022
When you look in the mirror, are you less than pleased with your reflection because of a melting jawline, lax skin on your neck, and jowls? Does the idea of surgery to correct these issues seem like too much? Luckily, there are less invasive treatment options at Colorado Skin & Vein to effectively address loose skin of the neck, jowls, and volume loss in the lower face and chin. *Individual Results May Vary. The Profound RF Difference Profound RF is a non-surgical treatment designed to restore the contours of your jawline and neck to address gravity’s effects as we age, including volume loss, lax skin, and wrinkles. Our facial and neck tissues respond to heat in a variety of ways, and Profound RF takes advantage of that response. Precisely controlled temperatures and radiofrequency energy are introduced into the dermal layer, stimulating new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production to nourish and tighten skin from the inside out. Patients experience tighter, younger looking skin in just a few weeks. Dr. David Verebelyi and Colorado Skin & Vein are pleased to be one of the few Midwestern providers of this truly innovative procedure. Profound RF has the unique ability to lift, add volume, and tighten skin all in one procedure, saving you time, money, and minimizing recovery time. The results are so effective we refer to the procedure as a non-surgical face lift. Am I a Good Candidate? Ideal Profound RF patients are those concerned about jowls, volume loss in the lower face, and lax skin in the jaw and neck area. Because radiofrequency does not depend on pigment in the skin, it is suited for all skin types. Pregnant patients, those with a pacemaker, or previous history of poor wound healing should not consider this treatment. 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 What are Profound RF Treatments Like? The Profound RF procedure is so remarkable, patients frequently only require one treatment session. Patients are administered local anesthetic to the treatment area, to prevent pain during or in the hours following the procedure. The handpiece delivers radiofrequency energy and precise temperature control through a series of needles that penetrate to an exact depth within the face and neck tissues. The result lifts the underlying layers and stimulates collagen, the support structure of our facial tissues. Hyaluronic acid nourishes and hydrates the skin to bring back your natural glow, and elastin restores youthful elasticity stolen by age. These effects also restore volume, so your skin returns to the suppleness of youth. Results become visible in as little as 2 weeks, with continued improvement over the following 6-9 months. Expected side effects are swelling, redness, and minor bruising that subsides by the end of the first week. You may see some minor skin shedding as your body works to replace the topmost layer with new, youthful skin cells. At Colorado Skin & Vein, our team stays on the cutting edge of the cosmetic aesthetics industry, giving our patients access to the latest technologies available. We are frequently among the first clinics in the nation to offer treatment advancements, and as a result, our patients have access to the best, most innovative treatments available, oftentimes at lower cost. Our passion, our extensive expertise, and our continued commitment to bringing the best in facial rejuvenation makes our patient care and our results truly profound. “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 First Step – Request A Consultation To request your Profound RF treatment consultation with us, please call (303) 683-3235 or fill out our online contact form today. Colorado Skin & Vein serves Englewood and the greater Denver, CO area.
September 29, 2022
So the weather has started to change here in Denver and one of the most common complaints that I hear over the Fall and Winter months is dry skin. Many of my patients ask me how to treat dry skin. There are several things that you can do to combat dry and itchy skin during the winter. It all starts with your bathing routine and your environment, so here are some tips: If possible start taking more baths and even add a couple of cups of whole milk or oatmeal bath to the water. When you do take showers, keep them short about 3-5 minutes Reduce the temperature: although a nice hot shower or bath does feel great on a cold winter day, it abruptly strips the natural oils from your skin so keep the temp warm and not too hot. Use a moisturizing body wash such as Aveeno, Dove or one containing oatmeal and exfoliate at least ones or twice a week (that applied to you too guys) Blot your skin dry instead of wiping it down and leave it slightly damp and immediately apply your moisturizer Use a moisturizer with ingredients such as dimethicone (silicone), glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Lecithin and Urea Moisturize your skin at least twice a day Increase the humidity in your home or at least in where you sleep Lower the temperature in your home to between 67-70 degrees Include good oils in your diet such as omega-3s, if you don’t eat fish try supplementing about 1000mg of omega 3s per day Keep hydrated Don’t forget the sunscreen If you continue to have itchy and dry skin to the point of disturbing your sleep, it is time to give your doctor a call to make sure that there is not something else going on. At Colorado Skin and Vein, we can help you solve what may be a bigger problem, call us at 303-683-3235, or request a consult online.
September 28, 2022
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. *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. 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.