ActiveFX and MaxFX are two depths of CO2 laser resurfacing on the same laser platform. ActiveFX is a lighter, fractional CO2 treatment used for fine lines, pigmentation, sun damage and texture, with less downtime than deeper resurfacing. MaxFX is deep corrective resurfacing, and it needs more healing time. At Sensational Skin in Scottsdale, S. Kent Brown, M.D. recommends a depth for each patient at a consultation.
What is the difference between ActiveFX and MaxFX?
The main difference between ActiveFX and MaxFX is depth. Both are performed on the Lumenis UltraPulse Encore CO2 laser, and both rely on the same basic process: precise laser energy removes damaged outer layers of skin while stimulating collagen renewal. ActiveFX works at the lighter end of the range, in a fractional pattern. MaxFX sits at the deep, corrective end.
Collagen is the protein that gives skin much of its structure and firmness. It naturally declines with age, and years of strong Arizona sun add to the wear. As skin heals after resurfacing, it produces new collagen, which is why resurfacing is aimed at the quality and texture of the skin itself rather than only its surface appearance.
ActiveFX: a lighter, fractional CO2 treatment
ActiveFX is the lighter of the two. It is a fractional treatment, which means the laser works in a pattern and leaves small bridges of untreated skin between the treated areas. The practice explains that these bridges are why fractional healing is faster than full resurfacing.
The practice uses ActiveFX for:
- Fine lines
- Pigmentation
- Sun damage
- Texture
Because it involves less downtime than deeper resurfacing, ActiveFX is often part of the conversation for people whose concerns are on the lighter side or who have less room in their schedule for healing time. You can read more on the practice's ActiveFX page.
MaxFX: deep corrective resurfacing
MaxFX is the deep corrective option on the same platform, and the practice notes that MaxFX allows controlled depth even in delicate areas such as the eyelids.
The practice's CO2 laser resurfacing page lists the concerns CO2 resurfacing is used for:
- Deep lines and wrinkles
- Eyelid laxity and under-eye wrinkles
- Acne scars and enlarged pores
- Sun damage and uneven pigmentation
- Aging skin on the neck and chest
Deeper treatment asks more of the healing process. Deeper MaxFX and full CO2 resurfacing need more healing time than lighter fractional treatments, and that is part of what is planned for at the consultation.
What sits between ActiveFX and MaxFX?
ActiveFX and MaxFX are two points on a wider range. The UltraPulse Encore platform also offers TotalFX, DeepFX and SCAAR FX, which are chosen according to the concern being addressed. Having several depths on one laser means the treatment can be matched to the person rather than the person being fitted to a single setting.
CO2 is not the only laser option, either. The practice also describes Erbium YAG as a gentler option suited to mild to moderate concerns, with faster healing, though it is less effective for deep wrinkles. The laser resurfacing overview explains these options side by side.
How is the right depth chosen for you?
The right depth is chosen at a consultation, not from a menu. The practice does not believe every patient needs the same laser treatment. Laser settings, energy levels and recovery plans are tailored to each patient's skin type, concerns and goals, and multiple treatment options and levels of resurfacing are discussed in person.
A few things are weighed together:
- The concern. Fine lines and texture may point toward a lighter treatment, while deep lines may call for a deeper approach.
- Your skin. Settings are adjusted to the individual's skin type.
- Your goals. Two people with similar skin can want different things from treatment.
- The healing time you can plan for. Downtime depends on depth, and Dr. Brown reviews expected recovery for your own plan at the consultation.
Many patients from Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Phoenix have spent years outdoors, so sun damage and uneven tone come up often. Not every skin change is cosmetic, though. A spot that is new or changing, a sore that does not heal, or persistent redness should be evaluated by a qualified medical provider before any cosmetic treatment is considered.
Care before and after either treatment
Whichever depth is recommended, care at Sensational Skin begins before the laser session and continues after it. The practice describes:
- Medical-grade skin preparation before treatment
- A guided recovery protocol
- Stabilization treatments to support healing
- Weekend follow-up care
Patients also receive comprehensive pre- and post-treatment guidance, and CO2 treatment at the practice includes anesthesiologist-directed comfort options that Dr. Brown discusses during planning. For more on getting ready, see the practice's article on how to prepare for CO2 laser resurfacing.
Who performs CO2 laser resurfacing at Sensational Skin?
CO2 laser resurfacing at the practice is physician-led by S. Kent Brown, M.D., Medical Director of Sensational Skin since 1998. Dr. Brown is an anesthesiologist with more than 40 years of surgical experience and more than 25 years of CO2 laser experience, and he customizes every treatment. CO2 resurfacing is the treatment the practice performs most often.
Questions worth bringing to your consultation:
- Is ActiveFX, MaxFX or another depth a better fit for my concern?
- How much healing time should I plan for at the depth you recommend?
- Would Erbium YAG or another option suit my skin?
- How should I prepare my skin beforehand?
You can browse the practice's CO2 laser before and after gallery. Results vary, and the photos show individual patients rather than a promise of any outcome.
Book a CO2 laser consultation in Scottsdale
Choosing between ActiveFX, MaxFX and the depths in between starts with an in-person evaluation, and results may vary from person to person. Sensational Skin is at 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 115, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, convenient to North Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Arcadia and Biltmore. The practice offers a complimentary consultation. Call or text (480) 596-9111, or request a consultation online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ActiveFX and MaxFX?
Both are CO2 laser treatments on the Lumenis UltraPulse Encore platform. ActiveFX is a lighter fractional treatment with less downtime, while MaxFX is deep corrective resurfacing that needs more healing time.
What is ActiveFX used for at Sensational Skin?
The practice uses ActiveFX, a lighter fractional CO2 treatment, for fine lines, pigmentation, sun damage and texture.
How is the right CO2 laser depth chosen?
Dr. Brown recommends a depth at a consultation, tailoring laser settings, energy levels and recovery plans to each patient's skin type, concerns and goals.
Book a consultation. Every plan starts with a consultation at our Scottsdale office, 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 115. Call or text (480) 596-9111, or request a consultation online.
Individual results vary. This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have symptoms or a medical condition, please see a qualified medical provider.