Erbium YAG
Advanced Fractional Laser
Skin Resurfacing (iPixel)

The iPixel fractional resurfacing laser delivers precise beams of energy in a pixel-size formation to target specific areas of damaged skin cells. The treatment is delivered via ‘microcolumns’ or tiny channels of perforations on your skin which leave the surrounding cells intact. This triggers rapid healing processes and the production of collagen and elastin to fill in the area with new healthy cells.

iPixel is a very versatile treatment that can improve a host of skin conditions, including:

• Signs of ageing – wrinkles, lines, loose skin
• Scarring and acne scarring (ice pick scars, rolling scars, boxcar scars)
• Pigmentation and sun spots
• Poor skin texture – large pores, crepiness, rough skin

The treatment is not suitable for all skin types and cannot be used for patients with dark skin tones.

We will determine your suitability during your consultation but for initial advice, please contact [email protected]. This does not replace the need for a consultation but can be very helpful as a first step.

While most commonly used for the face, the iPixel is gentle yet effective enough for:

• Neck and Décolletage: To treat “crepey” skin and sun damage.
• Hands: To reduce age spots and improve skin thickness.
• Body: Specifically for the reduction of surgical scars or stretch marks.

Pre-Treatment Checklist

• Sun Protection: Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior.
• Skin Products: Stop using Retin-A, Retinols, or harsh exfoliating acids 5 days before your session.
• Consultation: A patch test is required at our Putney clinic at least 48 hours before your first treatment.

iPixel is an intensive resurfacing treatment, but we use a numbing cream to minimise discomfort during treatment.

You may notice a grid of tiny pinprick dots where the laser has been applied. These do pass relatively quickly and we will apply a soothing cream to help.

You can expect your skin to look quite red after treatment, so it is a personal choice whether to ‘stay in’ for a few days or carry on as normal.

iPixel does not remove the entire top layer of the skin (unlike traditional ablative laser systems), which makes recovery faster than might be expected. Its laser can penetrate at a deeper level while reducing downtime and swelling. However, it is still quite an intensive treatment and your skin will look ‘sunburned’ for a few days. After around 3 days, you may also experience little scabs on the skin. It’s important to let them fall off naturally.

• Expect some initial redness and swelling – like mild sunburn. This should pass within 48 hours of treatment
• Pain also can be present for 2-3 days. Painkillers can be taken and ice packs can also be applied in the area.
• Mild swelling can last up to 5 days depending on the area being treated. You can apply aloe vera gel, aftersun or ice packs to ease this
• Avoid wearing makeup, or touching your face for 24 hours to reduce the risk of any potential infection (longer if there is any blistering)
• Avoid UV exposure and wear an SPF 30 minimum throughout your course of treatment
• Avoid high temperatures e.g., sauna or steam for the first few days
• Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin
• Avoid exfoliating treatments while having iPixel laser treatment

iPixel works by stimulating growth of collagen and elastin; so results are not instant but develop gradually as the skin regenerates.

As more collagen is produced, scars and pigmentations begin to fade so your skin develops a fresher, healthier and more radiant look. You can expect your skin to look much better after around 3 months.

iPixel vs. Traditional CO2 Laser

The Harmony XL Pro and its iPixel Er:YAG module are backed by rigorous clinical testing and international medical certifications, ensuring the highest standards of patient safety.

• FDA Cleared: The Pixel 2940nm technology received US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) clearance in 2006 specifically for fractional ablative laser skin resurfacing.
• CE Marked: The system was awarded the European CE Mark in September 2006, certifying it meets all EU safety, health, and environmental protection requirements.
• Clinically Proven: The Harmony XL platform is used globally and is cleared for over 65 medical and aesthetic indications, making it one of the most versatile and trusted systems in the industry.
• Doctor-Led Safety: At Cosmedics Skin Clinics, all iPixel treatments are performed by Aesthetic Doctors. We perform a mandatory medical consultation and skin patch test 48 hours before treatment to ensure complete skin suitability.

The Erbium YAG 2940nm wavelength is highly absorbed by the water in your skin. Compared to older full-field CO2 lasers, this allows the iPixel to:

• Reduce Thermal Damage: It creates precise micro-channels with significantly less “peripheral” heat spread, lowering the risk of prolonged redness or pigment changes.
• Speed Up Recovery: Because it leaves 80% of the surrounding tissue intact, the skin’s natural healing response is much faster and safer.

iPixel is a fractional ablative laser treatment that can resurface the skin. It can improve skin texture and pigment related concerns; including wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, large pores and rough skin texture.

It is a versatile treatment that stimulates collagen renewal for a refreshed and radiant complexion. This means that results look and feel quite natural, as they are the result of stimulating your body’s own renewal processes.