Confused about Tixel or Carboxy for firmer skin & under eye area, any advice?

Question

I visited a clinic in the NL for my under-eye area (I want firmer skin). They advised against Tixel due to my skin type 3, citing potential hyperpigmentation risks. Instead, they recommended carboxy treatment. However, another skin therapist from a different clinic contradicted this, suggesting the previous clinic lacked expertise. Now, l've come across information suggesting that (ironically) Tixel can even treat hyperpigmentation. This has left me feeling confused. Any advice?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for your question. It's understandable to feel confused given the mixed advice you've received regarding treatments for firmer skin and the under-eye area.

Tixel Treatment:
Tixel is a relatively new fractional skin resurfacing technology that uses thermal energy to rejuvenate the skin. It can indeed be effective for treating fine lines, wrinkles, and even hyperpigmentation. However, it is also true that individuals with higher Fitzpatrick skin types (like type 3) are at a slightly increased risk of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following certain skin treatments. The risk varies based on the device settings and the experience of the practitioner.

Carboxytherapy:
Carboxytherapy involves injecting carbon dioxide gas into the skin, which can improve circulation, skin elasticity, and reduce dark circles and fine lines. It is generally considered safe across various skin types, including Fitzpatrick type 3, and carries a lower risk of hyperpigmentation compared to some laser and thermal treatments.

Advice:

Consultation with a Dermatologist: Given the mixed advice, it would be beneficial to consult a board-certified dermatologist who can assess your skin type and condition in person. They can provide personalized recommendations based on a thorough evaluation.

Patch Test: If you are considering Tixel, ask the clinic if they can perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of your skin to monitor for any adverse reactions before proceeding with a full treatment.

Expertise and Experience: Ensure that the practitioner performing the treatment has substantial experience with your skin type and the specific procedure. This can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

Alternative Treatments: There are other treatments like microneedling, radiofrequency, or even certain topical treatments that can help with skin firmness and under-eye concerns. Discuss these options with your dermatologist.

In summary, both Tixel and carboxytherapy have their pros and cons. A detailed consultation with a qualified dermatologist will help you make an informed decision based on your specific skin needs and goals.

Confused about Tixel or Carboxy for firmer skin & under eye area, any advice?

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Confused about Tixel or Carboxy for firmer skin & under eye area, any advice?

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Everything you need to know about Carboxytherapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.