We are excited to introduce the newest laser at Liv Aesthetics Chicago: Moxi by Sciton. It is one of the gentlest lasers available, it suits every skin tone, and it can be done in any season, including Chicago summers.
If you want brighter, smoother, more even skin without a week of hiding at home, Moxi is worth knowing about. Here is how it works, what it treats and what to expect.
What is the Moxi laser?
Moxi is a non-ablative fractional laser made by Sciton. In plain terms:
- Fractional means the laser treats thousands of tiny zones of skin while leaving the skin in between untouched. That untouched skin helps you heal quickly.
- Non-ablative means it works beneath the surface without removing the outer layer of skin, so there is no open wound and very little downtime.
Moxi uses a 1927 nm wavelength, which works in the upper layers of the skin, where sun damage, uneven tone and rough texture live. Your skin responds by clearing away damaged cells and building fresh, healthy ones, along with new collagen.
What Moxi treats
Moxi is best for skin quality: the overall tone, texture and glow of your skin.
- Early sun damage and brown spots
- Uneven tone and blotchiness
- Dull, tired-looking skin
- Rough texture and a less polished surface
- Early fine lines
- Prevention, which makes it a favorite for patients in their twenties and thirties who want to stay ahead of aging
It can be used on the face, neck, chest, hands and arms.
Just as important is what Moxi is not for. It is not designed for deep wrinkles, significant skin laxity, deep acne scarring or visible blood vessels. For those, Sangini may recommend Sofwave, Morpheus8 or IPL instead, or as part of a combined plan. Honest recommendations are part of the Sangini Method.
Who Moxi is for
All skin tones. Many lasers carry more risk for deeper skin tones. Moxi is designed to be gentle enough for all skin types, with the right preparation and aftercare.
Busy people. Treatment takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you are numb, and most patients go back to their normal routine the same day or the next.
Year-round patients. Most pigment lasers are best saved for fall and winter. Moxi is gentle enough to use in any season, as long as you protect your skin from the sun. Read more about timing laser treatments in Chicago.
First-timers. If you have been curious about lasers but nervous about downtime or discomfort, Moxi is an easy place to start.
What to expect at your Moxi appointment
- Consultation. Sangini looks at your skin, talks through your goals and makes sure Moxi is the right fit. You may be asked to pause retinoids for a few days beforehand and to avoid tanning.
- Numbing. A topical numbing cream keeps you comfortable.
- Treatment. The laser glides across your skin in a few passes. Most people feel warmth and light prickling.
- Aftercare. You leave with SPF on. We recommend waiting about 24 hours before wearing makeup.
Moxi recovery, day by day
- Days 1 to 2: pink, warm skin, like a mild sunburn
- Days 2 to 4: skin feels rough or sandpapery, and tiny dark dots may appear as old pigment rises
- Days 4 to 7: the roughness flakes away to reveal brighter, smoother skin
Gentle cleansing, moisturizer and daily SPF are all you need.
How many Moxi treatments will I need?
Many patients notice brighter skin after one treatment. For the best results, we usually recommend a series of two to four treatments, then maintenance every few months to keep your skin looking its best. Results continue to build over the weeks after each session.
Moxi vs other lasers at LIV
| Moxi | IPL | Laser Genesis | Morpheus8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Tone, texture, early sun damage | Brown spots and redness | Glow, pores, redness | Texture, scars, laxity |
| Downtime | Little to none | Minimal | None | A few days of redness |
| Season | Year round | Best in fall and winter | Year round | Year round |
These treatments work well together. Sangini often layers them in a plan built around your skin, for example Moxi for overall tone and texture with IPL when redness is part of the picture.
Why choose Liv Aesthetics Chicago for Moxi
A laser is only as good as the person using it. Sangini Patel, M.S., PA-C, has practiced cosmetic and medical dermatology since 2004, 22 years of treating skin of every type, and has performed more than 100,000 aesthetic procedures. She will tell you whether Moxi is right for you, which settings suit your skin, and when another treatment would serve you better.
Our patients say it best: "She is not afraid to say no if a requested treatment is not the best fit for your body, and will explain why and recommend the next best alternative." Read more patient reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Moxi laser hurt?
Most patients describe it as warmth with light prickling. We apply a numbing cream first to keep you comfortable.
How much downtime does Moxi have?
Very little. Expect a day or two of pinkness, then a few days of rough, dry skin that flakes away by about day five to seven. Most people return to work the same day or the next.
Is Moxi safe for darker skin?
Moxi is designed to be gentle enough for all skin types, including deeper skin tones, with proper preparation and aftercare. Sangini will assess your skin at your consultation.
Can I get Moxi in the summer?
Yes. Unlike many pigment lasers, Moxi can be done year round. Avoid tanning before treatment and wear SPF every day afterward.
How many Moxi sessions do I need?
Usually a series of two to four, then maintenance every few months. Many patients see brighter skin after the first.
How much does Moxi cost in Chicago?
Pricing depends on the area treated and the number of sessions in your plan. We will give you a clear estimate at your consultation. The $150 consultation fee is fully credited toward any services booked.
Where can I get Moxi in Chicago?
At Liv Aesthetics Chicago, 954 W Washington Blvd, Suite 715, in the West Loop. Book online or call or text (312) 833-9004.
Curious whether Moxi is right for your skin? Book a consultation with Sangini.
Book a consultationThis article is general information, not medical advice. Every face and skin type is different, so the right treatment for you is decided at an in-person consultation. Individual results vary.