Active FX is a new laser skin treatment technology which offers improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness in just one treatment.

The downtime (time to recuperate) from an Active FX procedure is about 3-7 days. Most women can wear makeup at four days after the procedure, and all pinkness/redness has completely diminished by one week after.

The Active FX laser treatment can help restore your skin to a more youthful appearance without the downtime or prolonged recovery as seen with other types of treatments. It is the ideal “pick-me-up” procedure for restoring a youthful appearance. For more information, please view the "Frequently Asked Questions" provided below.

Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Active FX work and what does it accomplish?
Am I a good candidate?
Why do I need a consultation?
How is the treament performed?
How many treatments will I need?
How do I care for my skin after treatment?
What is the recovery like?
How much does the treatment cost?





How does the Active FX work and what does it accomplish?
Answer

Active FX treatments utilize laser technology to remove a controlled 30 millionths of an inch of skin tissue at a time. These thin layers of skin that are removed are then replaced by newer skin growth. Additionally, heat causes collagen deposition and results continue to evolve over the ensuing 3-6 months.

The treatments offer all of the benefits of a chemical peel, without all the chemicals or the harmful side effects. It gives a much more uniform and consistent result than chemical peeling and dermabrasion. It softens the damage inflicted to your skin from sun, aging and biological factors and reveals healthier, younger-looking skin. The treatment if often used in conjunction with skin care programs to maintain healthy, vibrant skin.

Below is a list of skin improvements that the peels are typically used for.

Improves skin texture

Removes surface impurities

Decreases pre size

Softens skin

Softens fine wrinkles and acne scars

Brightens the complexion

Helps promote new skin growth

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Am I a good candidate?
Answer
Active FX treatments have been successful in treating such skin conditions such as wrinkles, scars, acne scars, and pigmentary problems in both women and men of all skin colors. It is effective for all skin colors and ideal for sun-damaged skin. The procedure is geared toward people who expect better results than microdermabrasion or light chemical peels but have little time for an extensive recovery.

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Why do I need to have a consultation?
Answer
A consultation is necessary prior to scheduling your Active FX treatment. The consultation allows Dr. Kenkel to determine your skin type, the appropriate laser necessary for your treatment, and if this would be the best treatment for your particular skin condition. You may find, during your consultation, that other treatments available in the clinic may benefit your skin condition better. Some treatments may also require a skin care regimen before beginning your treatment. The only way to determine if this is necessary is by having the initial consultation with Dr. Kenkel.

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How are Active FX treatments performed?
Answer
Your Active FX treatment will be performed in the Outpatient Building, either in the office or in surgery, on the campus of UT Southwestern Medical Center.

You will need to discontinue use of retinal products and alpha or beta hydroxy acids at least 7 days prior to treatment but you may resume their use the day following treatment. A prescription for Valtrex will be given to you prior to your procedure to help prevent any viral infections or cold sores. You will need to start taking this the day before your treatment. A topical gel anesthesia is applied in the office to anesthetize the skin that will be treated. Dr. Kenkel then uses the Active FX’s high energy laser to remove the superficial layer of skin. The laser light is absorbed by the water in your skin and instantaneously vaporizes a very small amount of tissue. Dr. Kenkel passes the laser light over your skin to remove a 30 millionths of an inch of tissue at a time. He can obtain the results you want while minimizing the erythema by treating only as deeply as needed, from removing wrinkles to merely refreshing your overall skin appearance. After the damage skin is removed, new skin quickly regrows in its place.

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How many treatments will I need?
Answer
One treatment for most but some patients perform yearly treatments for skin maintenance.

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How do I take care of my skin immediately after the treatment?
Answer
Active FX treatments may cause the skin to become raw, red or pink with mild to moderate discomfort for several days following the procedure. Cool compresses are helpful following treatment to decrease any swelling or irritation. If your skin is pigmented, you may actually experience darkening of these areas prior to improvement. You will need to sleep with your head elevated on 1 to 2 pillows for the first couple of days after your treatment. You will be given a moisturizer to liberally apply to your face several times daily. You will need to avoid the sun as much as possible.

After you have healed, you will need to continually protect your new skin. In the early weeks and months following the treatment, your skin will be very susceptible to sun damage. If at all possible, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. If you must be in the sun for a short time, use sunscreen.

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What is the recovery like?
Answer
Patient recovery from Active FX treatments is rapid. Of course everyone will heal at various rates depending on the depth of the treatment, the particular areas treated and your own healing rate. Light resurfacing around the eyes and lips in general take only a few days to heal. Most patients can be treated before the weekend and be almost completely healed by the beginning of the following week. A deep full facial resurfacing may take up to 2 to 3 weeks before you feel aesthetically comfortable to return to your normal activities.

Symptoms immediately following the procedure resemble sunburn, with mild peeling on the second day and redness fading after the first couple of days. Any discomfort can easily be managed with a pain reliever.

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How much does the procedure cost?
Answer
Active FX treatment involves the use of sophisticated expensive laser equipment in order to deliver precise and effective energy pulses. During your initial consultation the areas to be treated will be determined and a fee quote per treatment session will be given to you. This fee involves the cost of the procedure, topical anesthetic, postoperative visits and an invitation for a free skin care consultation with our aesthetician. Our aim is to provide safe, effective and affordable laser treatments for patients. Please call (214) 645-2353 to schedule an appointment.

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