How does it work? 
Pixel RF works by causing controlled thermal ablation to the deeper layers of the skin, triggering tightening, smoothing, and contouring without disruption to the epidermis (the visible layer of the skin). The patented glide tip delivers energy in a pinpoint, controlled fashion, causing microperforations that tell the surrounding healthy skin to kick into the “heal and repair” mode. This ultimately boosts and improves the production of collagen and elastin resulting in younger, softer skin within even the first treatment!

Because it reaches a depth that can only be achieved through laser and radiofrequency technology it is particularly helpful for deep scarring, stretch marks, and aging. 

What are the common conditions treated with Pixel RF?
Here are some of the most common occurrences that Pixel RF can treat:

• Acne scarring
• Sagging skin in the cheeks, jowls, and/or neck
• Light or deep wrinkles
• Rough, bumpy texture
• Stretch mark
• Scar improvement
• Brow and neck lifting
• Hand rejuvenation

What areas of the body can be treated?
The RF Micro-Needling Pixel can be used across the body. The most popular areas to treat are the: face, neck, chest, hands, and abdomen. 

How many treatments will it take before I see results?
Most clients see visible improvement after their first treatment! However, the more damage the skin carries, the more treatments may be needed to help heal it. The average treatment plan suggestion is 3 sessions, 4 weeks apart. 

Do I qualify for RF Micro-Needling treatment?
The answer is more than likely, yes! Because of the safety and adjustable nature of the Pixel RF, it  is safe for any skin type, color, or age. The only contraindications for this treatment are:

• Open sores or active infections (including active herpes complex)
• Within 6 months of Accutane use
• Keloid scarring on desired treatment area
• Pregnancy or breast-feeding
• Electronic implants (pacemaker, LVAD, insulin pump, etc.)

Clients may also be advised to avoid the following before and after their treatment:

• Sunburns and self tanning lotions
• Retin-A’s, AHA’s, and/or any medications that list photosensitivity as a side effect
• Fillers, Botox, or plastic surgery (varies on time needed to recover, always keep your technician in the loop)

What does the downtime look like?
This is a minimally invasive treatment, which means clients can expect little discomfort and very little downtime! Immediately after the treatment you should expect to be red, and we recommend no makeup for the rest of the day. Depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment, the redness can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. The skin might be a little sensitive to heat (hot baths, intense exercise, direct sunlight) for 24-48 hours, but this discomfort is usually minimal. This is not the kind of treatment that will keep you away from social engagements for 2-3 weeks (like a CO2 laser), but it is a deep enough treatment that we don’t recommend doing it if you have important events over the next couple of days.

As the skin heals and tightens you should expect an itching sensation. This is usually nothing to worry about. It just means the treatment is doing what it’s supposed to do. 

How is Pixel RF different from traditional Micro-Needling?
The RF Micro-Needling Pixel from Alma Lasers has a head of tiny needles–much like a traditional Micro-Needling machine–that a technician will roll across the treatment area. Unlike the microneedling, however, the Pixel RF needles don’t generally penetrate the epidermis. 

Traditional Micro-needling damages the epidermis (or the first layer of skin) and causes the body’s natural healing process to kick in. With Radio-Frequency Micro-Needling, the needles are simply a carrier for the radio-frequency to penetrate to the deeper dermis. This dermal layer is where the body stores its collagen and elastin, which are two imperative proteins that keep your skin young and taut. When exposed to the  radio-frequency and thermal energy, the dermal layer is tricked into believing it needs to fortify itself and it does so by improving its collagen and elastin production. 

In a nutshell, the difference between traditional and RF Microneedling is simply deeper penetration and improved immediate results. 

How is Pixel RF different from microneedle RF?
Both micro-plasma (Pixel RF) and microneedle RF are great options for smoothing and resurfacing the skin. Both have been found in studies to be very safe and effective. Some studies have shown the micro-plasma technology to be more effective in skin resurfacing. 

Is it painful? 
We recommend the same numbing protocol as is used for a traditional microneedling treatment. This involves topical numbing cream applied prior to your appointment.  Because the efficacy of the Pixel RF treatment is dependent on the aggressiveness of the settings used, we recommend a minimum of 60 minutes with the numbing cream. Additionally, for patients who are particularly anxious or sensitive, we offer in-office nitrous oxide (laughing gas). 

How long does it take?
Honestly, the longest part of this procedure is the numbing! We tell patients to anticipate an hour in the office (this includes time in the waiting room), but it usually doesn’t take quite that long.