Active FX is commonly known as a fractional laser resurfacing procedure used to treat fine lines and wrinkles with minimum downtime. However, there are some potential risks and complications associated with Active FX, which you should be aware of beforehand.
Developed by Lumenis Corporation, Active FX is based on the concept of using CO2 laser for spacing the skin’s contact points. Once these skin zones are spaced out, several untended bridges in the skin are left behind. These bridges encourage the entire healing process. Anesthesia is administered during the procedure. A recovery period of around 5 to 7 days is also associated with this surgery. During the recovery and post treatment, Active FX does have some potential risks and complications involved, as previously mentioned. Some of them are listed as following:
Swelling and Redness
After the treatment, swelling and redness are quite common side effects. You may take antihistamines prescribed by your doctor in order to reduce effects of swelling and redness. You may also splash the area with warm water to get relief.
Peeling
Another common side effect post treatment is peeling of the skin. It starts after two days of the treatment and may last till the fourth day. The results will only begin to show after this initial peeling is done.
Change in Skin Texture
During the first 5 to 7 days, the skin’s color may drastically change. It will first become moderate red and then might shift to medium brown. This is due to the fact that the outer sun-damaged skin is beginning to peel off. It is recommended that you keep your skin moist all the time and shower twice a day. The changed color of the skin can be easily covered with the help of make up during the recovery period.
Infection
In case you have a bacterial or viral infection prior to the treatment, you should discuss your medical history in detail with your physician. Otherwise, this infection may result in an unnecessary complication later.
Wounds
Make sure there are no open wounds near the area to be treated using the laser of Active FX. Due to the intense nature of the procedure, these wounds may become problematic at a later stage.
Sun Damage
Sun damage is a potential risk after the Active FX treatment. Stay away from direct sunlight for at least the first few weeks after the treatment. Also, skin is required to be kept in cold conditions most of the time, otherwise several complication may occur.
Complications Due to Alcohol and Aspirin
Potential complications can arise if alcohol or aspirin is consumed after the process. They actually deter the healing process. Also avoid any photosensitive medication after the treatment to avoid further side effects. These herbs and drugs should be in avoided for few months, even prior to the treatment.
Other common problems may occur if you are pregnant or suffering from a fatal disease like cancer or AIDS.
