Q: What are the pros and cons of the Affirm laser?

Pros Affirm laser treatments typically require little to no downtime. They’re suitable for most skin types (including olive and brown skin). RealSelf members who say it was “ Worth It ” noticed visible skin tightening and a more even complexion after as few as two treatments. Some noted that they looked better-rested and didn’t need to wear as much makeup. Cons While Affirm can treat superficial scarring, it’s not powerful enough to smooth out pitted acne scars. A small percentage of RealSelf members who rated it “ Not Worth It ” said they experienced side effects like blisters and bruising for a few weeks following treatment.

Question 1

What is the Affirm laser?

Accepted Answer

The Multiplex Affirm laser is a fractionated laser treatment designed for facial rejuvenation. Because it’s non-ablative, its heat penetrates the lower layers of skin while leaving most of the surface intact, leading to faster healing and little to no downtime.

This laser is unique in that it combines two different wavelengths to achieve both superficial and deep thermal heat (that’s where the “multiplex” comes in). It works by creating micro injuries in about 40% of the top layer of the skin, prompting a healing response that helps improve tone and texture. At the same time, it targets the lower, dermal layer to stimulate collagen production. As a result, it can improve the look of scars, deep lines and wrinkles, and sagging.

The Affirm laser’s energy level can be adjusted to reduce discomfort without compromising effectiveness. Affirm is often mentioned as a competitor of the Fraxel laser, another type of fractionated non-ablative laser.

Question 2

What are the pros and cons of the Affirm laser?

Accepted Answer

Pros

Affirm laser treatments typically require little to no downtime.
They’re suitable for most skin types (including olive and brown skin).
RealSelf members who say it was “Worth It” noticed visible skin tightening and a more even complexion after as few as two treatments. Some noted that they looked better-rested and didn’t need to wear as much makeup.

Cons

While Affirm can treat superficial scarring, it’s not powerful enough to smooth out pitted acne scars.
A small percentage of RealSelf members who rated it “Not Worth It” said they experienced side effects like blisters and bruising for a few weeks following treatment.

Question 3

What happens during an Affirm laser treatment

Accepted Answer

The treatment itself is relatively quick—one full session lasts between 15 and 40 minutes. First, your provider will apply a topical numbing cream to your skin to lessen any discomfort from the heat. Even so, you’ll probably feel a slight prickly or stinging sensation as the heat builds up on the treatment areas. The device has a built-in cooling system, to help regulate the temperature of your skin and prevent burns.

You can expect your skin to look like it’s sunburned immediately after treatment, but downtime is minimal. You can resume normal activities (including wearing makeup) the following day.

Mild swelling and redness may continue for a couple of days, but it will start to dissipate as your skin starts to repair itself. Though swelling often resolves after a few days, doctors on RealSelf say it may take as long as 10 days before most of the swelling goes away. Initially, the swelling may even make lines and wrinkles seem deeper—but this will go away as your skin recovers.

The final results will appear gradually. “Over the next few weeks, you should see continued improvement in the firmness and overall appearance of the skin,” says Dr. William Groff, a dermatologic surgeon in San Diego. “Keep in mind that you may need a series of treatment sessions to achieve full results with this device.”

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, most patients benefit from a series of three to six treatments, typically spaced three to six weeks apart, for optimal results.

Results are temporary. To maintain the benefits, you’ll need follow-up treatments “once a season” to stimulate collagen production, advises Dr. R. Stephen Mulholland, a plastic surgeon in Toronto.

Question 4

How much do Affirm laser treatments cost?

Accepted Answer

Your cost will depend on the size of the area being treated, the number of sessions you have, your provider’s level of experience, and their practice location.

AFFIRM LASER

Lindsay Kirkman

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Lindsay Kirkman

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