11
Jun
2025
11
Jun
2025
Tixel®: The Breakthrough Technology Transforming Aesthetic and Medical Dermatology
As non-invasive treatments continue to dominate the aesthetics space, one device is generating significant clinical and commercial buzz: Tixel®, a thermomechanical fractional injury (TMFI) system that blends the efficacy of lasers with the safety and comfort of non-laser technologies.
With FDA approval in 2021 and a growing portfolio of studies, Tixel is earning its place as a versatile tool for treating everything from photoaging to hypertrophic scars. In this comprehensive review, we explore the clinical applications, safety profile, and emerging research behind this innovative device.
1. Comprehensive Review of TMA Journal Clinical Aesth Derm 2024-07 jcad_17_2_32.pdf
To view the PDF please click here.
Tixel® uses a heated titanium tip array (up to 400°C) to deliver controlled thermal energy into the skin. Unlike traditional lasers, it does not rely on chromophores, making it theoretically safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types.
- Pulse duration: 5–18ms
- Protrusion depth: 100–1000μm
- Modes: Ablative and non-ablative
- Mechanism: Microthermal coagulation zones without charring
Its unique delivery system enables both resurfacing and enhanced transdermal drug delivery, with minimal pain and downtime — an ideal option for sensitive areas like the periorbital region or for paediatric and pain-averse patients.
Tixel has demonstrated strong clinical outcomes for rhytides, especially around delicate facial areas. Key findings:
- Improvement in wrinkle depth after 2–4 treatments
- Low pain scores (VAS 2–3/10), often without anaesthesia
- Minimal downtime, with most patients resuming activities within 24–48 hours
- Notable success in Fitzpatrick skin types I–V
One study of 48 patients reported a 95.9% response rate for moderate to severe periorbital rhytides, with over half showing 76–100% improvement.
Tixel has also been used to treat scalp and facial actinic keratoses, hypertrophic scars, and acne scars. Results include:
- Over 80% lesion reduction in actinic keratoses
- Effective scar remodelling without the adverse effects linked to intralesional steroids
- High tolerability and satisfaction, even in patients with darker skin types
Tixel’s ability to open microchannels in the skin makes it a powerful tool for transdermal delivery of topical treatments. Clinical use includes:
- Keloid & hypertrophic scars: Enhanced steroid and 5-FU delivery
- Infantile hemangiomas: Faster and more effective resolution with topical beta-blockers
- Rosacea: Significant improvement with botulinum toxin A
- Acne vulgaris: Improved PDT outcomes with 5-ALA gel
- Hailey-Hailey disease: Symptom relief using botulinum toxin
This mechanism allows targeted therapy with reduced systemic risk, positioning Tixel as a bridge between medical and aesthetic practice.
The review highlights a strong safety profile:
- Rare adverse events: Mostly transient erythema, oedema, or hyperpigmentation
- No reported scarring, even in areas prone to it (e.g. neck, perioral)
- Effective in Fitzpatrick types I–V, with caution advised at higher settings in skin of colour
Importantly, no systemic side effects or infections were linked to the device across over 300 treatments.
Tixel is quickly proving itself as a multi-functional, patient-friendly platform that combines the benefits of fractional lasers with improved comfort and versatility. From fine lines to drug delivery, it offers:
- Shorter recovery times
- Low pain levels
- Wider patient eligibility, including darker skin types and children
- Potential for new indications including hand rejuvenation and Mohs surgery scarring
While larger and blinded RCTs are needed, current data signals strong potential across both cosmetic and medical dermatology.
Final Thoughts
For practitioners seeking a cost-effective, versatile, and safe alternative to laser resurfacing, Tixel is a standout. It provides real clinical outcomes with less downtime and high patient satisfaction. As the demand for minimally invasive skin treatments grows, so too does the role of devices like Tixel in reshaping modern dermatology.
If you’ve been struggling with persistent rosacea redness and flushing, the combination of Tixel and botulinum toxin could be the innovative solution you’ve been waiting for. This approach targets the problem at its source, offering not just temporary relief, but a significant improvement in skin health and confidence.
Arrange an in-clinic demonstration to explore how Tixel® can support your clinical outcomes
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