Laser Skin Resurfacing

Can Laser Therapy and Microneedling Be Used Effectively Together?

Laser Skin Resurfacing / September 6, 2023

Laser therapy and microneedling can be used effectively together to produce optimal skin rejuvenation. Both procedures stimulate collagen production, and the results will be dramatic. Your dermatologist may recommend both treatments in the same appointment or staggering them. You will receive personalized recommendations based on your aesthetic goals and unique health history.

Regardless of whether you undergo laser skin treatments and microneedling at the same appointment or in two separate sessions, you can expect a remarkable transformation at Dallas Dermatology Partners.

How do laser therapy and microneedling work together?

By themselves, laser skin treatments and microneedling can help you enjoy younger-looking skin. You will notice improvements in texture, tone, and firmness.

For optimal results, many patients prefer to combine these treatments for skin rejuvenation. For example, if you combine the Moxi laser and the Genius RF Microneedling system, you will see a near-instantaneous improvement in the texture of your skin. These treatments work effectively together to stimulate new collagen production, tighten skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and a rapid reduction of areas of hyperpigmentation and skin damage. In contrast, having only a Genius treatment by itself may require a wait time of up to three months before you can see the full result.

In some cases, the dermatologist may recommend combining both treatments on the same day. Other patients may be best served by staggering the treatments. Discuss your goals and skin health history with the dermatologist to determine which treatment schedule works best for you.

First, however, your dermatologist will determine whether one or both treatments are appropriate for you. Microneedling and laser skin resurfacing complement each other effectively and safely.

How do laser skin treatments work?

Different laser skin resurfacing treatments include the Sciton Moxi laser, Halo laser, and BBL Hero laser. For example, the non-ablative Sciton Moxi laser is appropriate for patients with post-inflammatory pigmentation and works wonders for those interested in skin “prejuvenation.”

On the other hand, the BBL Hero laser is ideal for patients who desire minimal downtime. Your dermatologist will discuss your skin goals to determine which is right for you. Although each laser is a little different, they all work similarly; they deliver an intense beam of light energy to reveal the new skin underneath and stimulate collagen production.

Laser skin treatments can help you look younger and more vibrant by:

Minimizing the appearance of lines and wrinkles
Improving skin tone and texture
Addressing photo-damage areas, such as sunspots
Reducing other blemishes, such as acne scars

How does microneedling work?

Microneedling creates areas of micro-damage to trigger the skin’s natural healing and rejuvenation processes. It uses very tiny, sterile needles to prick the skin gently. This stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin looks smoother and firmer. After a series of microneedling treatments, you can expect to see improvements in the following issues:

Enlarged pores
Fine lines and wrinkles
Loose, crepe-like skin
Uneven skin tone
Rough skin texture
Discoloration
Minor scars and stretch marks

Some patients may opt to undergo RF microneedling, which introduces radiofrequency energy and further stimulates collagen and elastin production.

Dallas Dermatology Partners is pleased to offer Genius RF Microneedling, which combines microneedling with fractional radiofrequency energy to create younger-looking skin. The smart handpiece of this system enables our dermatologists to adjust the RF penetration depth to each individual’s skin thickness and texture, delivering a fully customized treatment.

While you will notice some results immediately after receiving Genius RF treatments, it can take up to three months to see the full result. This is because it takes time for the body to produce new collagen.

Schedule your dermatology appointment in Dallas today

Laser skin treatments and microneedling can be used together for dramatic results. Consult the professionals at Dallas Dermatology Partners, where we use cutting-edge technology. Contact us today to schedule your Dallas dermatology appointment at our practice.

Moxi Laser vs. Halo Laser – Which is Right for You?

Non-invasive laser rejuvenation is a specialty at Dallas Dermatology Partners, where our focus is innovative skincare. Many of today’s laser devices are suitable for all skin types and address a variety of cosmetic concerns. Whether you’re trying to correct years of sun damage or “prejuvenate” before deep wrinkles set in, Moxi and Halo laser treatments are excellent options.

Both Halo and Moxi treatments can be customized according to patient concerns, but there are some key differences between these two laser technologies.

Moxi vs. Halo Lasers

Moxi is a fractionated, non-ablative laser that delivers targeted laser energy below the skin’s surface to stimulate the body’s innate healing process. It is considered a “low-level” laser and is approved for use in patients with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick Scale IV-VI).

Halo is a hybrid laser that uses ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to penetrate deeper into the dermis. This is a stronger treatment that creates micro-wounds while triggering collagen production. A Halo laser treatment is more aggressive, making it a smart choice for those with more extensive UV damage.

Moxi Laser – Minimal Downtime

If you are hoping for tonal and textural improvements with nominal downtime, then a Moxi laser treatment may be a great option.

Our patients realize impressive results when addressing the following:

Uneven skin tone
Dull skin
Fine lines and wrinkles
Sun damage
Large pores
Rough texture
Melasma

This non-ablative treatment is a wonderful option for busy patients looking to refresh their appearance without an extensive recovery period. Our patients return to their normal routines within 3-4 days after a Moxi laser session.

Halo Laser – Deeper Correction

The dual-wavelength Halo laser corrects deeper wrinkles, skin discoloration, textural problems, and enlarged pores. In addition to treating visible signs of aging, Halo can also improve the appearance of scars. The results of this hybrid laser are dramatic, but patients should expect a longer period of downtime. Most patients are fully healed within seven days of their Halo laser treatment.

How to Choose the Right Laser Treatment

Moxi and Halo lasers are safe for use on the face, neck, and chest. Both technologies are highly effective and well-tolerated by patients with no anesthesia.

Here are the key differences between the two treatments:

Moxi is a good choice for treating more superficial concerns or maintaining a youthful glow while preventing future UV damage.
If you want to tackle decades of sun damage or stubborn changes in pigmentation, the Halo may be a more suitable option. The major caveat with this rejuvenating laser is the longer stretch of downtime.

Moxi and Halo lasers work wonders independently but can also be combined with BBL treatments to optimize results.

Laser Skin Rejuvenation in Dallas

Our experienced dermatologists will suggest the best laser treatment based on your current skin health and anti-aging concerns. We are dedicated to providing the most personalized skin care in a thoughtful, warm, and innovative environment.

To learn more about Moxi and Halo skin rejuvenation in Dallas, book your laser treatment appointment with us today.

Can You Combine Moxi and Genius Microneedling?

Laser Skin Resurfacing / July 25, 2023

Often, dermatology patients want to know if one treatment could help them achieve all their skincare goals. However, combining multiple types of treatments, such as Moxi and Genius RF Microneedling, can be beneficial because, together, they can correct a wide range of issues. Together, they are even more effective at rejuvenating and transforming the skin. To find out if Moxi and Genius Microneedling could work for you, contact Dallas Dermatology Partners to consult with an experienced clinician.

What is Moxi and what can it treat?

The Moxi laser treatment uses a controlled, fractional laser to rejuvenate the skin. This non-ablative laser can address many common signs of aging and create a more youthful-looking complexion. It’s also safe for all skin types and can be used as an anti-aging or a “prejuvenation” treatment (performed before the signs of aging are easily discernible).

The Moxi laser can address the following skin issues:

Dull or uneven skin tone
Mild scars, including acne scars
Melasma
Mild sun damage
Poor skin texture, including large pores
Fine lines and wrinkles

In addition, Moxi requires minimal downtime.

What is Genius Microneedling and what benefits does it offer?

Genius RF Microneedling is an effective anti-aging treatment. It uses needles to create micro-damage to the skin, which stimulates collagen and elastin production. In addition, it takes an innovative approach to the traditional microneedling treatment by introducing radiofrequency energy.

This treatment offers the following benefits:

Minimize hyperpigmentation
Reduction in the appearance of stretch marks
Smoother, younger-looking skin
Fine line and wrinkle reduction
Skin tightening and firming
Improvement in the appearance of acne scars
Minimized appearance of pores
Improvement of skin tone and texture

Like Moxi laser treatment, this treatment also offers minimal downtime.

Maximize your skincare results by combining treatments

Moxi laser treatment and Genius RF Microneedling can achieve remarkable results. Combined, they offer more comprehensive benefits because they target different layers of the skin. The Moxi laser targets the uppermost layers—the epidermis and the topmost part of the dermis. In contrast, Genius RF Microneedling works deeper within the skin—far into the dermis—offering effective contouring and tightening.

When these two treatments are combined, patients can look forward to comprehensive skin rejuvenation. Moxi and Genius can address a range of problems, from reduced collagen and poor skin texture and laxity to wrinkles and sun damage.

Find out if Moxi and Genius Microneedling are right for you

Discover if these two technologies combined can give you the radiant skin you’ve been dreaming of. The experienced clinicians at Dallas Dermatology Partners specialize in developing innovative treatment plans that are customized to the unique needs of each of our clients. Contact us today to schedule your Dallas dermatology appointment.

What Is the Arctic Peel?

Laser Skin Resurfacing / July 3, 2023

The Arctic Peel is a micro laser peel, known as the Nano Laser Peel or the “Weekend Peel” because it only requires two days of downtime. It is a five-minute treatment that doesn’t require numbing and is perfect for those not ready to start with a laser treatment. It is very gentle on the skin, yet it can produce significant results. If you’re concerned about the signs of aging, the Arctic Peel might be a good choice for you. Request a consult with Dallas Dermatology Partners to learn if you could be a good candidate.

How does the Arctic Peel work?

The skin has many layers, and removing a few of the outermost layers reveals the vibrant, new skin underneath. The Arctic Peel works by resurfacing the skin to remove those topmost layers. It minimizes the appearance or, in some cases, eliminates various skin imperfections, from fine lines to areas of hyperpigmentation. If you’re familiar with the Sciton MicroLaser Peel, you’ll be pleased to know that the Arctic Peel is like the MicroLaser Peel—except that it has less downtime.

What to expect from a treatment session

You will first receive a topical anesthetic. Then, the clinician will use a specialized laser to deliver intense energy into the skin. It resurfaces the skin but also stimulates the production of collagen. The increased production of collagen will enhance your facial rejuvenation results. It’s important to note that you may need more than one treatment session to get the results you desire. Many patients have two to four treatment sessions spaced up to four weeks apart. However, every patient has unique needs and skincare goals. During your consultation, you’ll receive personalized recommendations regarding your treatment schedule.

Facial rejuvenation with the Arctic Peel

One of the reasons why the Arctic Peel has become so popular is that it’s a gentle treatment, yet it offers the potential for incredible results. One Arctic Peel treatment can produce comparable results to three to five microdermabrasion treatments. Receiving a series of laser resurfacing treatments will provide a cumulative effect that can minimize or completely erase fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to wrinkles, the Arctic Peel can treat dark spots and acne scars.

What is the minimal recovery time?

Along with its dramatic results, the Arctic Peel is a popular skin rejuvenation treatment because it offers minimal downtime. You may experience skin tightness, redness, and swelling for up to eight hours following your treatment. Patients often say that it feels similar to mild sunburn. Avoid sun exposure, and use a gentle cleanser and a rich moisturizer. After a few days, the topmost layers of skin will begin to shed.

Although the Arctic Peel only requires eight hours of downtime, the total recovery time for your skin will be one to three days.

Seeking innovative skincare solutions in Dallas?

The talented clinicians at Dallas Dermatology Partners have over 65 years of combined experience. We can help you find the skincare solution that’s right for you, whether it’s the Arctic Peel or another type of laser resurfacing treatment. So contact us today to schedule your Dallas dermatology appointment, and look forward to rejuvenated and glowing skin.

Moxi Laser for Melasma

Laser Skin Resurfacing / February 17, 2023

Melasma can cause significant emotional distress. This skin condition is common, especially among women who are pregnant. For years, dermatologists have typically avoided recommending laser skin treatments, as they can worsen melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation. However, the Moxi laser treatment is different. Consider talking to a dermatology provider to find out if it might be right for your skin condition.

What is Moxi laser treatment and how does it work?

Moxi is one of the latest laser treatments available from Sciton, the innovative maker of other effective laser treatments like Halo and BBL. Moxi is a fractionated laser that delivers low-level, non-ablative energy to the skin. In other words, it’s a gentle treatment that provides a comfortable experience–with dramatic results.

The Moxi laser works by creating microdamage in the targeted areas. The microdamage stimulates the skin to generate collagen and increase cell turnover, providing a rejuvenating effect.

Why is Moxi laser treatment appropriate for melasma?

As noted, most laser skin resurfacing treatments are not appropriate for patients with melasma. However, the Moxi is designed for all skin tones and types, including skin with hyperpigmentation because of its temperature. Moxi doesn’t produce the high levels of heat that many other cosmetic lasers do, which means it won’t inadvertently worsen skin conditions.

In addition to being an effective melasma treatment, it also offers other cosmetic benefits. It’s appropriate for patients interested in anti-aging benefits, including those already seeing signs of aging and interested in prejuvenation (preventive anti-aging treatments). Since this laser treatment triggers collagen formation, it can help delay the formation of lines and wrinkles, as well as address wrinkles already there.

What can I expect from Moxi laser treatment?

Moxi laser treatments take about 15 minutes to perform (full face treatment area), although there will be some minimal prep time, as well. Unlike more aggressive laser treatments, the Moxi is so gentle that there is little to no downtime. Your face may look a little puffy and feel a little rough, but these side effects will dissipate quickly. After it heals, your skin will look noticeably brighter, healthier, and rejuvenated, with reduced hyperpigmentation. Although you’ll see some results immediately, you may need two to three treatments to achieve your desired look.

Find out if Moxi laser treatment could be right for you

Melasma can undermine your self-confidence, but there’s no need to live like that any longer. The compassionate team at Dallas Dermatology Partners is pleased to offer a range of sophisticated solutions for our valued patients, including Moxi laser treatment. With more than 65 years of combined dermatology experience, you can trust our innovative and compassionate skincare.

Contact our award-winning dermatology practice today to schedule your Dallas dermatology appointment. We’re pleased to serve patients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond.

What is A “Sun Mustache”? And How To Get Rid of It

Cosmetic Procedures, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Skin Brightening / September 29, 2022

Is the skin above your upper lip slightly darker and more pronounced? This shadowy-looking upper lip is commonly called a “melasma mustache,” characterized by brown or gray-colored patches. This discoloration can be splotchy, symmetrical, or cover the entire upper lip. Dallas Dermatology Partners share the science behind hyperpigmentation around the mouth and offer a few tips on how to prevent and lighten it.

What causes a sun mustache?

The upper lip is a common location for melasma to develop. This condition is more common in women and happens when melanocytes produce more melanin than usual. As a result, concentrated areas of melanin in the epidermis appear darker, and when this hyperpigmentation is above the lip, it gives a mustachioed appearance.

Various factors can increase melanocyte activity and pave the way for a melasma mustache–the most prevalent are:

Excess UV exposure triggers melanin production
Estrogen-based birth control pills
Hormone fluctuations with pregnancy
Certain medications that make the skin more photo-sensitive
Thyroid disorders and some systemic diseases
Family history of melasma
Trauma to the skin

In addition, women with darker skin tones are at higher risk for developing a melasma mustache due to the higher number of active melanin-producing cells.

Best prevention techniques

A good skincare regimen and diligent sun protection are the best way to protect the skin around your mouth from developing excess pigmentation. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 am to 2 pm) and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater to shield against UVA and UVB rays that can trigger melanin production.

Dermatologist recommended sun mustache treatments

If you’re trying to get rid of existing hyperpigmentation around the mouth, our dermatologists may recommend antioxidant-rich topicals. These will neutralize free radical damage, exfoliate pigmented cells from the skin’s surface, and help brighten the complexion. They will also likely prescribe a lightening compound for treatment and maintenance of the discolored patches.

Other effective sun mustache treatment options include:

Chemical Peels – smoother, brighter, and more evenly-toned skin can be achieved with a series of chemical peels designed to address melasma and photodamage.
Melanage Peels – for medium-depth melasma on the upper lip or face, a Melanage Peel can work wonders by accelerating skin cell turnover with prescription-strength acids and retinoids that target discoloration.
Laser Resurfacing – laser therapy is another approach to treat hyperpigmented patches of skin that don’t respond to chemical peels or topical treatments. Today’s non-ablative fractional resurfacing lasers promise quicker treatments, less risk of complications, and faster recoveries.

If you are looking for a safe and effective way to get rid of hyperpigmentation on the upper lip, talk to a board-certified dermatologist first. Our team can evaluate your skin and suggest treatment options that align with your aesthetic goals. Melasma is often frustrating to treat on your own and can be exacerbated with the wrong products.

Contact us today

For more information about eliminating a sun mustache, please contact us today. Get the beautiful, clear skin you deserve by booking your Dallas dermatologist appointment.

How Often Are Laser Resurfacing Treatments Needed?

Cosmetic Procedures, Laser Skin Resurfacing / June 7, 2022

Laser resurfacing is one of the safest non-surgical treatments to stave off premature signs of aging and counteract the effects of UV damage. Whether you’re having a mini laser treatment with minimal to no downtime, or a deeper resurfacing that requires a recovery period, these procedures do more than improve the appearance of your skin. Laser resurfacing targets underlying support structures for gradual improvements in skin elasticity and firmness.

The frequency of laser resurfacing treatments will depend on the type of device being used and the goal of the procedure. For example, patients with extensive sun damage may opt for a more aggressive HALO laser treatment that targets multiple skin concerns in one go. Deeper resurfacing procedures will require more downtime, but the results will last longer.

Deeper Resurfacing Laser Treatments

For example, a laser resurfacing treatment with the BBL Halo laser, which uses ablative and non-ablative energy, may only be necessary every one to three years. This dual-wavelength device addresses discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, rough texture, blotchy skin, and other signs of photo-aging. Impressive results are visible after one session and continue to improve for 6 months as new collagen is generated in the skin.

Ablative wavelengths penetrate deeper layers of the skin, inducing the natural healing response. Non-ablative energy targets textural imbalances, enlarged pores, and uneven tone. Halo’s state-of-the-art hybrid technology means patients need fewer treatments to see dramatic improvements.

Milder Laser Treatments & Prejuvenation

Laser resurfacing with BBL (Broad Band Light) therapy is a less aggressive way to correct photo-damaged skin on a cellular level. The BBL HERO gently heats the upper layers of the epidermis to lighten hyperpigmentation and minimize redness and textural irregularities. Improvements in skin tone, clarity, and texture are evident in two to three weeks after a BBL HERO treatment. However, since this is milder phototherapy, two to three sessions are needed to see optimal results. The intervals between treatments are usually four to six weeks.

Younger patients in their 20s and 30s looking to prevent wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin are increasingly turning to laser treatments as a preventative measure. In the world of dermatology, it’s known as prejuvenation. In this context, your dermatologist may recommend a milder laser treatment like the mini HALO once every 3-4 months to help trigger collagen production and activate anti-aging genes. Quarterly laser treatments will maintain skin health, elasticity, and volume.

In terms of skin health and appearance, it’s better to prevent wrinkles and sun spots from developing rather than attempting to turn back the clock.
The frequency of laser resurfacing treatments needed will ultimately depend on your skin type, the kind of laser technology used, and whether it’s done to delay signs of aging or restore sun-damaged skin.

Laser Resurfacing in Dallas

Lasers can help preserve a youthful, healthy complexion or counteract the tell-tale signs of the aging process. Whatever your concerns or goals, our board-certified dermatologists can customize a treatment plan accordingly. Book a Dallas dermatology appointment to learn more about our laser resurfacing treatments and how often you’ll need them to maintain a youthful glow.