TotalFX Laser Resurfacing: Your Top Questions Answered
TotalFX Before and After
What is TotalFX Laser Resurfacing?
Q: What exactly does “TotalFX” mean?
A: TotalFX is an advanced fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment that combines two powerful technologies to rejuvenate both the surface of the skin and the deeper layers below. At The Skin Clinic North Scottsdale, TotalFX is used to treat wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, texture irregularities, sun damage, and skin laxity in a single, comprehensive session.
TotalFX includes two components:
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ActiveFX: Targets the upper layers of the skin to address pigmentation, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and mild texture issues.
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DeepFX: Penetrates deeper into the dermis to remodel collagen, soften wrinkles, tighten skin, and reduce the appearance of acne and surgical scars.
By using these two modes together, TotalFX resurfaces the skin at multiple depths and creates dramatic improvement in tone, texture, and overall skin quality.
Who is a Good Candidate for TotalFX?
Q: What kinds of skin concerns does TotalFX treat?
A: This treatment is ideal for anyone wanting a significant improvement in multiple skin issues at once. TotalFX can improve:
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Fine lines and deeper wrinkles
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Acne scars and surgical scars
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Skin laxity and loss of elasticity
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Uneven tone and texture
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Sun spots, age spots, and pigmentation issues
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Dull or aging skin
Because TotalFX addresses both superficial and deep skin concerns, it’s a popular choice for patients who want dramatic, long-lasting results with one primary treatment.
Q: Is everyone a candidate?
A: While TotalFX is effective for many people, it may not be appropriate for individuals with very sensitive skin, certain medical conditions, recent isotretinoin use, or a history of poor wound healing. During your consultation at The Skin Clinic North Scottsdale, an experienced provider will assess your skin, medical history, and goals to determine if TotalFX is your best option or if another treatment would be safer or more suitable.
How Does TotalFX Work?
Q: What happens during a TotalFX appointment at The Skin Clinic North Scottsdale?
A: Here’s what a typical session looks like:
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Preparation and numbing: Your skin is thoroughly cleansed, and a strong topical numbing cream is applied to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
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DeepFX treatment: The provider begins with the deeper laser pass, creating micro-columns in the lower layers of the skin. These tiny channels trigger the body’s healing response and stimulate fresh collagen production.
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ActiveFX treatment: The second pass focuses on the surface layers of the skin to smooth texture, even tone, and reduce pigmentation.
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Treatment sensations: Most patients feel warmth or a light prickling sensation as the laser pulses across the skin. A full face typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on intensity and whether additional areas are treated.
Combining deep dermal stimulation with surface resurfacing in one visit helps TotalFX produce both immediate and long-term improvements.
Before and After TotalFX
What Is the Downtime?
Q: What should I expect after the treatment?
A: Since TotalFX is an ablative fractional CO₂ laser, your skin will go through a visible healing process. Typical downtime can include redness, swelling, crusting, and peeling.
Here is a general timeline:
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First 24–48 hours: Skin feels warm and looks red or swollen. Tiny crusts or pinpoint dots may appear.
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Days 3–7: Flaking and peeling continue as new, healthy skin emerges. Many patients feel comfortable returning to light makeup around day 5–7, depending on treatment strength.
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Week 1–2: Skin may appear pink as deeper layers continue healing. Collagen remodeling begins and continues for months.
The Skin Clinic will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and help minimize downtime.
When Will I See Results?
Q: How soon will I notice improvements?
A: Many patients see brighter, smoother skin once peeling has finished — usually about 1 to 2 weeks post-treatment. However, the most significant improvements come over time as new collagen forms. Skin continues to improve for 3 to 6 months after TotalFX, with many noticing continued tightening, softening of lines, and refined texture.
Q: How long do results last?
A: Results are long-lasting, especially when supported with quality skincare, regular SPF use, and occasional maintenance treatments recommended by The Skin Clinic North Scottsdale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TotalFX painful?
Most patients find the procedure very tolerable thanks to numbing cream and cooling methods. You may feel warmth or mild prickling during the laser passes, but the sensation is manageable.
What are the risks or side effects?
Possible side effects include redness, swelling, temporary pigment changes, and crusting. More serious complications are rare when performed by trained providers. Following The Skin Clinic North Scottsdale’s aftercare instructions greatly reduces risk and supports proper healing.
How many treatments do I need?
A single TotalFX treatment can produce dramatic results, making it a popular option for those seeking meaningful improvement without committing to multiple sessions. Your provider may suggest additional treatments or lighter maintenance options depending on your skin’s condition and goals.
Will my skin look unnatural?
No. Because TotalFX treats fractional portions of the skin and stimulates your body’s natural healing processes, results look gradual, youthful, and natural — never overdone.
Is TotalFX Right for Me?
You may be a great candidate for TotalFX at The Skin Clinic North Scottsdale if:
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You want a transformative treatment that addresses several concerns at once
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You’re comfortable with 5–7 days of downtime
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You want powerful collagen stimulation, not just surface improvement
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Your provider determines your skin is appropriate for CO₂ laser resurfacing
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You want long-lasting, natural improvement in wrinkles, scars, and texture
For patients with very mild concerns, gentler treatments may be recommended first. For those with deeper wrinkles, scarring, or extensive sun damage, TotalFX can deliver a noticeable, long-term rejuvenation that other treatments can’t match.
TotalFX laser resurfacing is a comprehensive treatment that resurfaces the skin, repairs deeper structural issues, and stimulates collagen for smoother, firmer, brighter skin. With just one session, many patients experience significant improvements that continue developing for months. If you’re looking to dramatically refresh your skin’s appearance, The Skin Clinic can help you determine whether TotalFX is the right fit for your goals. Schedule your complimentary consultation today!