Would a CO2 laser or radiofrequency micro needling help indentions on my face? (Photos)

Question

Hi, I have some indentions on my face. These are not from acne but I believe a loss of collagen. What would be the best procedure for me? Would a CO2 laser or radio frequency micro needling help with my concerns? Thank you P.S. it looks worse in person. I couldn’t get a great picture

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your photos you appear to be a good candidate for Morpheus8. This technology combines radiofrequency and micronnedling to improve overall skin tone and texture.  We also recommend using medical grade skin care products like Transform MD and wearing sunscreen every day.

Sheryl D. Clark, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello Sapphire:

You are absolutely correct. Both fractionated CO2 and RF Microneedling can help these type of scars. They are somewhat punched-out, so if not from acne they may have resulted from the skin lesions of chicken pox. Whatever the cause, you would probably do best with the RF first. There is very little downtime after this procedure, and it can be performed using topical anesthesia only for comfort control. Then you can have CO2 treatment(s) if needed. Or, you can have a combined treatment on the same day for fastest results.

The FRAXIS DUO Fractional CO2 Laser is a laser system that combines carbon dioxide fractional laser and micro-needle RF fractional technology. This dual technology ensures significantly improved skin quality and texture through intense superficial stimulation, increased volumetric heating, and deeper heat diffusion. This safe and highly advanced procedure can be used to treat both the face and body and promotes the reduction of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, uneven texture, pore size, stretch marks, and more.

The Fraxis Duo system is a 2-step procedure that combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy and ablative fractional CO2 laser resurfacing. The microneedling treatment allows for deeper penetration within the layers of the skin while delivering targeted RF energy to encourage collagen and elastin production. The subsequent application of an ablative fractional laser provides additional heat energy to the treatment area for increased stimulation. While both procedures are able to effectively rejuvenate the skin on their own, the two energy sources together allow for a multi-depth treatment with results in as few as 1-3 treatments.

The Fraxis Duo machine is equipped with two separate hand pieces: one for microneedling, one for laser resurfacing. First, the skin will be cleansed and anesthetized with a topical numbing cream for up to an hour. Some patients may also receive local anesthetic shots or an oral sedative for increased comfort. When the patient is thoroughly anesthetized, the topical cream will be removed and the microneedling treatment will begin. The hand piece will be guided across the face, creating controlled micro-injuries within the skin while simultaneously delivering RF energy.

Once the microneedling treatment is complete, the laser resurfacing will begin. Atop the skin treated with microneedling, a laser hand piece will deliver targeted CO2 laser energy, creating additional, although not as deep, micro-injuries. A full face Fraxis Duo treatment may take 2 hours to complete. When the treatment is complete, the patient will likely feel a slight burning or tingling sensation. Skin peeling and crusting will occur for 1-2 weeks, after which the skin will likely be pink or red for several more weeks.

The goal of Fraxis Duo is to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and  pigmentation and texture irregularities. Fraxis Duo aims to improve overall complexion and facial volume for a younger, more rejuvenated appearance.

All the best from NYC!

Sheryl Clark MD FAAD

Would a CO2 laser or radiofrequency micro needling help indentions on my face? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Microneedling RF

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Would a CO2 laser or radiofrequency micro needling help indentions on my face? (Photos)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling RF

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