Lasers and radiofrequency are tools, not treatment plans.
We start with the problem you want to improve—redness, pigment, scars, texture, laxity, or hair—and then decide whether an energy-based device is actually the right choice.
Skin tone, anatomy, downtime, and previous treatment matter as much as the device name.
How It Works and What to Expect
What can energy-based treatments address?
- Facial redness and selected visible blood vessels
- Benign pigment and sun-related discoloration
- Selected acne scars and textural irregularities
- Fine lines and photoaging
- Skin laxity in appropriate patients
Compare the treatment categories
- Excel V+ vascular laser: selected visible vessels, vascular redness and benign spots.
- Clear + Brilliant / Permea: lighter nonablative resurfacing.
- CO2RE and Fraxis Duo CO2 resurfacing: an ablative approach with a more substantial healing commitment.
- Vivace RF microneedling: needling combined with radiofrequency energy and a distinct risk profile.
- Laser Genesis: a separate laser treatment approach to discuss according to your goals.
Laser treatment and skin tone
There is no single laser that is automatically right for every skin type. Melanin competes for energy with some laser targets, so patients with darker skin require careful device selection and conservative treatment parameters to reduce the risk of burns and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Radiofrequency and microneedling
Radiofrequency devices deliver controlled energy to tissue and may be used alone or in combination with microneedling for selected texture, scar, and tightening concerns. Results are gradual and vary by device and indication. Our dedicated RF microneedling page explains the FDA’s safety communication about serious reported complications with certain uses and why adding energy requires a separate risk discussion.
Which device will I receive?
Choose the problem first, not the device. Texture, scars, pigment, redness, and laxity respond to different technologies, and skin tone changes the risk-benefit calculation. Device availability varies by office.
Downtime and risks
Downtime ranges from minimal redness to several days or longer depending on treatment intensity. Risks can include burns, blistering, scarring, prolonged redness, and pigment changes. We will review expected recovery and risk before treatment.
Related reading from Borealis
Explore these topics for more background and questions to discuss at your visit.