What is the difference between Acnexel, Infini RF Microneedling and fractional CO2 lasers?

Acnexel:

- This treatment does not penetrate as deep into the skin as the other 2 treatment modalities. It is probably more suitable for skin conditions that do not require intense treatments such as pores but not for scars.

Microneedle RF / CO2 laser:

- These 2 treatments are suitable for acne scars and does penetrate deeply into the deep skin layer to break up the thick fibrous scar bands. I do prefer using the CO2 laser first depending on the type of scar although it is more intense and have a longer downtime. Each does has its' pros and cons and should be discussed with your doctor before proceeding with the treatment.

As Dr Justin has mentioned, other treatments such as Subscision and TCA CROSS will also have to be considered as you have a combination of scars.

Hope this helps.

All the best!

Acnexel (or Tixel), Infini Fractional RF Microneedling and Fractional CO2 are similar in the sense that they are all fractional devices.

The differences lies in the Depth of Energy Delivery and Amount of Ablation - these 2 factors ultimately affect Acne Scar results.

• Infini RF Microneedling vs Fractional CO2

Compared to Fractional CO2 lasers (ablative and deliver energy up to 1mm), Infini Fractional RF micro-needling has faster recovery (non-ablative) and treats deeper acne scars (deliver energy up to 3.5mm deep using insulated gold micro needles).

Insulated micro needles means that energy is only delivered at the tips and there is no damage to the superficial layers of skin, hence minimising chances of post-inflammatory hyper pigmentation.

• Acnexel/Tixel vs Fractional CO2 Lasers

This is how Acnexel or Tixel works as compared to Fractional CO2 lasers

Tixel is non-ablative. Therefore it has shorter recovery time and less risk of post-inflammatory hyper pigmentation as compared to Fractional CO2. Both are similar in terms of depth of energy delivery.

All 3 treatments are effective over multiple treatment sessions. I usually combine treatments for best results.

Lasers might have limited results for your ice pick acne scars, you might need other treatments like subcision and TCA cross.

If you have deep scars, my suggestion is Infini RF as it can deliver energy up to 3.5mm.

If downtime is more of a concern, Tixel might be better than Fractional Co2. Infini RF has a downtime of 1-3 days, depending on settings.

Before you commit to any acne scar treatment, you might want to check out this guide on Acne Scar Treatment Cost in Singapore.

Hope that this helps!

Warmest regards,

Dr Justin Boey