******* Coming Soon *******
TIXEL Thermal Mechanical Resurfacing
TIXEL thermal mechanical resurfacing is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses a heated titanium tip to promote skin rejuvenation and treat various skin conditions, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and pigmentation. The lastest technology behind TIXEL is designed to achieve results similar to laser resurfacing or deep chemical peels, but with less discomfort, downtime, and risk of complications.
Here’s how TIXEL works:
1. Controlled Heat Delivery: The TIXEL device has a sterile titanium tip with tiny pyramidal structures. This tip is heated to a high temperature (about 400°C or 752°F), but only for a brief period. The heat is transferred directly to the skin without using laser or light energy.
2. Contact with the Skin: When the heated tip briefly touches the skin, it creates micro-channels or tiny perforations in the skin’s surface. This controlled “micro-thermal” injury encourages the skin’s natural healing response and collagen production without causing excessive damage to surrounding tissue.
3. Adjustable Depth and Intensity: TIXEL can be adjusted to various depths and intensities, allowing for treatments tailored to the skin’s condition and the desired results. The treatment can be set for ablative (deeper) or non-ablative (more superficial) resurfacing, depending on the target area and patient needs.
4. Collagen Stimulation and Skin Renewal: The micro-injuries stimulate collagen production and skin renewal, leading to improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and tone over time. This process typically unfolds over several weeks to months as new collagen forms and the skin continues to heal.
5. Minimal Discomfort and Downtime: Unlike traditional lasers, TIXEL doesn’t use light energy, which reduces discomfort during the procedure and minimises the risk of side effects like pigmentation changes. Most patients experience mild redness and swelling that resolves within a day or two.
The TIXEL treatment can be applied to various areas, including the face, neck, and eyelids, and it is suitable for a range of skin types. A series of sessions (typically 3-6) may be recommended for optimal results, depending on the skin condition being treated.
How do CO2 Laser Resurfacing and Tixel Thermal Mechanical Resurfacing compare?
CO₂ laser resurfacing and TIXEL thermal mechanical resurfacing both aim to rejuvenate the skin and treat similar skin concerns, such as wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and pigmentation. However, they differ significantly in their technology, intensity, side effects, and recovery time. Here’s a comparison of the two treatments:
# 1. **Technology and Method of Action**
– **CO₂ Laser Resurfacing**:
This uses a carbon dioxide laser to deliver concentrated light energy that vaporises the outer layers of the skin. It creates controlled thermal damage to the skin’s deeper layers, promoting collagen production and skin remodeling.
– **TIXEL Thermal Mechanical Resurfacing**:
TIXEL uses a heated titanium tip to transfer thermal energy to the skin via direct contact. Unlike CO₂ lasers, it doesn’t use light or radiation, so it doesn’t rely on photothermal interaction, which reduces some laser-related risks.
# 2. **Treatment Depth and Intensity**
– **CO₂ Laser**:
Known for being more intense, CO₂ lasers penetrate deeper into the skin, making it highly effective for moderate to severe wrinkles, deep scars, and significant skin texture issues. CO₂ lasers can achieve dramatic results but are considered more aggressive.
– **TIXEL**:
TIXEL has adjustable depths and can perform both ablative and non-ablative treatments, but it is generally less intense than CO₂. It’s better suited for mild to moderate skin concerns and can be adjusted for a gentler treatment, especially for sensitive areas (e.g. eyelids).
# 3. **Pain and Comfort**
– **CO₂ Laser**:
CO₂ resurfacing can be painful, often requiring a numbing cream or even sedation. Patients typically experience a burning sensation during the treatment.
– **TIXEL**:
TIXEL is typically more comfortable. While a numbing cream is sometimes used, the pain level is often lower than with CO₂, as it doesn’t penetrate as deeply or use light energy that can add discomfort.
# 4. **Side Effects and Recovery Time**
– **CO₂ Laser**:
Due to its intensity, CO₂ laser treatment has a longer recovery period, often 1-2 weeks, with redness, swelling, and peeling. There’s also a higher risk of side effects such as hyperpigmentation (especially in darker skin tones), scarring, or infection if not performed properly.
– **TIXEL**:
TIXEL has a shorter recovery time—typically 1-3 days of redness and mild swelling. It’s generally considered safer for a broader range of skin tones and carries a lower risk of hyperpigmentation. This makes it suitable for patients who want effective resurfacing with minimal downtime.
# 5. **Results and Treatment Frequency**
– **CO₂ Laser**:
Because of its intensity, CO₂ resurfacing can provide more dramatic, long-lasting results, often with just one session. This makes it ideal for people with severe skin aging or deeper scars.
– **TIXEL**:
Results from TIXEL are more subtle and may require multiple sessions (usually 3-6) to achieve comparable results to CO₂, especially for deeper issues. TIXEL’s effects build up gradually, making it a good option for those looking for a gentler, more progressive improvement.
# 6. **Suitability for Different Skin Types**
– **CO₂ Laser**:
Best for lighter skin tones, as there is a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin types. Patients with very fair or sensitive skin need to approach with caution.
– **TIXEL**:
Suitable for all skin types, including darker skin tones, as it has a lower risk of pigmentation issues and scarring. This makes TIXEL a more versatile option for a diverse patient base.
# Summary
– **CO₂ Laser Resurfacing**:
More intense, with longer-lasting and dramatic results but comes with higher discomfort, longer recovery, and more risk of side effects. Ideal for severe wrinkles, deep acne scars, and significant skin rejuvenation.
– **TIXEL Thermal Mechanical Resurfacing**:
Less aggressive, with minimal downtime and lower side effect risk, making it suitable for patients looking for gradual, moderate improvement. Ideal for mild to moderate signs of aging and skin imperfections and safe for a range of skin tones.
In short, CO₂ laser is powerful and best for significant skin issues with a tolerance for downtime, while TIXEL offers a milder, more comfortable option with minimal downtime, suitable for those who prefer a gradual enhancement.
Please contact the clinic if you are interested in the treatment. Coming soon in December 2024.