MOXI® Laser Treatment
Achieve Radiant, Youthful Skin with Minimal Downtime
If you're noticing the early signs of sun damage, uneven skin tone, or fine lines, MOXI laser treatment offers a gentle, preventative solution that fits seamlessly into your Florida lifestyle. At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, we use the advanced Sciton MOXI system, an FDA-cleared fractional laser technology, to revitalize your skin with virtually no downtime, allowing you to maintain your active routine while achieving visible results in just days.
Based in Naples, our experienced provider team customizes every MOXI treatment for patients from Fort Myers, Marco Island, and surrounding Southwest Florida communities under the leadership of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Cyndi Yag-Howard.
What is MOXI?
MOXI is a non-ablative fractional laser treatment that uses advanced 1927 nm wavelength technology to gently revitalize your skin without removing the outer layer. Unlike more aggressive laser treatments, MOXI delivers fractionated laser energy in a precise pattern, creating microscopic zones of controlled thermal injury that trigger your skin's natural healing response.
This fractional approach means only a portion of your skin is treated, leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This allows your skin to heal faster while stimulating collagen production deep within the dermis, resulting in improved texture, tone, and overall skin quality.
MOXI is manufactured by Sciton, the leader in aesthetic laser technology with extensive clinical research supporting its efficacy and safety profile. The treatment can be safely customized for many skin types and can be performed year-round, making it ideal for active Florida residents who are routinely outside playing golf, tennis or pickleball, boating, beach-walking, or just generally active outside.
What Does MOXI Treat?
MOXI laser treatment effectively addresses a wide range of skin concerns, particularly those caused by sun exposure and early signs of aging:
Sun Damage and Pigmentation Issues
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Brown spots and sunspots
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Freckles and age spots
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Melasma and hyperpigmentation
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Uneven skin tone and discoloration
Texture and Tone Concerns
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Rough or bumpy skin texture
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Enlarged pores
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Dull, lackluster complexion
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Loss of skin radiance
Early Signs of Aging
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Fine lines and superficial wrinkles
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Crepey skin texture
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Loss of skin elasticity
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Early collagen breakdown
Preventative Skin Health
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Prejuvenation for younger patients seeking to prevent future damage
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Maintenance of youthful skin appearance
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Overall skin rejuvenation and revitalization
MOXI is particularly suited for patients in Naples, Fort Myers, and Marco Island who spend significant time outdoors. The intense Florida sun accelerates skin aging and pigmentation issues, making preventative treatments like MOXI an essential part of a comprehensive skincare routine. Research in dermatology demonstrates that early intervention with preventative laser treatments can significantly reduce the progression of sun damage and maintain skin health long-term.
How Does MOXI Work?
MOXI's effectiveness lies in its advanced fractional laser technology. Here's how the treatment works:
The Fractional Laser Process
The laser delivers energy in a fractionated pattern, creating thousands of microscopic treatment zones across the skin's surface. These zones are separated by untreated skin, which accelerates healing and minimizes downtime compared to traditional ablative lasers. This mechanism has been extensively studied in peer-reviewed dermatological literature and proven safe and effective across all skin types.
Collagen Stimulation and Skin Cell Renewal
As your skin heals from these micro-injuries, it naturally produces new collagen and elastin over a period of 8-12 weeks. This process, called neocollagenesis, gradually improves skin texture, firmness, and overall appearance. The fractional approach stimulates skin cell turnover, encouraging the replacement of damaged cells with healthy new tissue.
Customizable Energy Settings
At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, we adjust the laser's coverage and energy levels based on your skin type, concerns, and tolerance. This customization ensures optimal results while maintaining your comfort throughout the procedure. Dr. Cyndi Yag-Howard's 25+ years of dermatology experience allows us to precisely calibrate treatment parameters for each patient's unique needs.
Treatment Duration
A full-face MOXI treatment typically takes 12-15 minutes, making it a true "lunchtime procedure" that fits easily into your busy schedule.
Benefits of MOXI Laser Treatment
1. Minimal to No Downtime
One of MOXI's greatest advantages is its minimal downtime. Most patients experience mild redness and swelling immediately following treatment, along with the formation of microscopic epidermal necrotic debris (MENDS)—tiny, sandpaper-like micro-crusts that are a normal part of the skin’s healing process. These MENDS typically begin to slough off between days 3–5 as fresh, healthy skin is revealed.
While patients can return to most normal daily activities right away, we recommend avoiding intense sun exposure and strenuous exercise for a few days post-treatment and following all post-care instructions to support proper healing and optimal results.
2. Visible Results in Days
Unlike some skin treatments that require weeks to show improvement, many patients notice visible results within 3-5 days of their MOXI treatment. Your skin appears brighter, more even-toned, and more radiant almost immediately.
3. Progressive Improvement Over Weeks
While initial results appear quickly, the real magic happens over the following weeks as collagen production accelerates. Your skin continues to improve in texture, tone, and overall quality for up to 12 weeks after treatment.
4. Safe for All Skin Types
MOXI is one of the few laser treatments that works safely and effectively on all skin types, including darker skin tones. This makes it an inclusive option for the diverse communities of Naples, Fort Myers, and Marco Island.
5. Year-Round Treatment
Unlike some laser treatments that require avoiding sun exposure for extended periods, MOXI can be performed year-round. This is particularly valuable for Florida residents who cannot avoid the sun for months at a time.
6. Preventative and Corrective
MOXI works both as a preventative treatment (prejuvenation) for younger patients and as a corrective treatment for those with established sun damage. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide age range.
7. Natural-Looking Results
MOXI stimulates your skin's own collagen production, resulting in natural-looking improvements rather than dramatic changes. Your results look like healthier, more youthful skin, not like you've had "work done."
MOXI and Long-Term Skin Health
In addition to its cosmetic benefits, MOXI plays an important role in supporting long-term skin health—particularly for patients with chronic sun exposure. As a dermatology-led practice, Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology values treatments that not only improve appearance, but also promote healthier skin at a cellular level.
MOXI is an FDA-cleared non-ablative fractional laser that targets the superficial layers of the skin where cumulative UV damage occurs. This includes areas affected by actinic damage—sun-induced changes that may not yet be visible on the surface but can contribute to long-term skin deterioration.
Addressing Sun-Damaged Skin at the Field Level
Rather than treating isolated spots alone, MOXI allows providers to treat larger areas of sun-damaged skin, helping improve overall skin quality and reduce the burden of chronically damaged cells across the treated region. This approach—often referred to in dermatology as field-based treatment—supports healthier skin turnover and renewal over time.
Supporting Healthier Skin Through Early Intervention
By encouraging controlled skin regeneration and collagen renewal, MOXI can be used proactively to help maintain healthier skin before more advanced damage develops. This makes it particularly valuable for patients in sun-intense environments like Southwest Florida, where long-term UV exposure is a major contributor to premature aging and skin health concerns.
An Important Part of Dermatologic Care. Not a Replacement
While MOXI supports overall skin health, it is not a substitute for regular full-body skin exams, daily sun protection, or medical treatment of suspicious lesions. Routine dermatologic evaluations remain essential for early detection and management of skin cancer and precancerous conditions.
At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, MOXI is thoughtfully incorporated into comprehensive skin health plans that prioritize prevention, early intervention, and long-term skin integrity, guided by the expertise of a board-certified dermatologist.
MOXI Laser Treatment for Specific Skin Concerns
Sun Damage and Pigmentation
Florida's intense UV exposure makes sun damage one of the most common skin concerns we treat. MOXI effectively lightens brown spots, sunspots, and freckles while improving overall skin tone. The fractional laser energy targets melanin in damaged areas, breaking it down so your body can naturally eliminate it.
Melasma and Hyperpigmentation
Melasma, a condition characterized by patches of darker skin, is particularly common in Florida due to sun exposure and genetic predisposition. MOXI can help reduce the appearance of melasma by stimulating skin cell turnover and promoting more even pigmentation. Clinical studies on fractional laser treatment for melasma demonstrate significant improvement in pigmentation uniformity with minimal risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Uneven Skin Tone
If your skin has areas of redness, discoloration, or uneven pigmentation, MOXI helps normalize skin tone by promoting uniform collagen remodeling and reducing inflammation.
Fine Lines and Skin Texture
The collagen stimulation from MOXI treatment improves skin texture and can soften the appearance of fine lines. While MOXI is not designed for deep wrinkles, it's excellent for early signs of aging and maintaining youthful skin quality.
Combining MOXI with BBL and HaloTribrid for Enhanced Results
Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology is an early provider of Sciton’s newest HALO TRIBRID laser technology, allowing our providers to offer advanced combination treatments using multiple laser wavelengths in a coordinated treatment plan.
While MOXI is highly effective on its own, many patients achieve even more comprehensive results by combining it with other advanced Sciton technologies, including BBL (BroadBand Light) and HALO TRIBRID. These combination approaches allow our providers to address tone, texture, and deeper signs of aging in a more complete way—often with one coordinated treatment plan and a single downtime window.
How MOXI, BBL, and HALO TRIBRID Work Together
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BBL targets visible pigmentation and redness to improve overall skin tone and clarity.
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MOXI refines texture and early sun damage while stimulating collagen for a smoother, brighter complexion.
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HALO TRIBRID combines ablative and non-ablative laser wavelengths to resurface and rejuvenate multiple layers of skin in one treatment—supporting results that are difficult to match with single-modality lasers alone.
Benefits of Combination Treatment
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More comprehensive improvement in tone + texture + visible signs of aging
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Addresses multiple layers of skin damage in a coordinated way
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Can deliver more noticeable results with fewer overall sessions
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A streamlined treatment plan with one period of downtime for combination sessions
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Customizable for a wide range of skin concerns and goals
Options Our Providers May Recommend
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MOXI + BBL for patients focused on improving sun damage, discoloration, redness, and early texture concerns with minimal downtime
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MOXI + HALO TRIBRID for patients who want more corrective resurfacing for texture, fine lines, and overall skin quality
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MOXI + BBL + HALO TRIBRID (“Trifecta”) for patients who want the most comprehensive rejuvenation—treating tone, texture, and deeper concerns together for dramatic, well-rounded improvement
Who is a Good Candidate for MOXI?
MOXI is suitable for a wide range of patients, either as a standalone treatment or as part of a comprehensive laser treatment plan. Ideal candidates typically have:
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Early signs of sun damage or aging
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Mild to moderate pigmentation issues
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Uneven skin tone or texture concerns
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Desire for preventative skin rejuvenation
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Realistic expectations about results
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Commitment to sun protection post-treatment
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All skin types and tones
MOXI is particularly popular among patients in Naples, Fort Myers, and Marco Island who want to maintain youthful skin despite Florida's intense sun exposure.
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate
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Patients with very deep wrinkles (may benefit more from ablative lasers or injectables)
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Those with active skin infections or severe acne
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Patients taking certain medications that increase sun sensitivity
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Pregnant women
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Those unwilling to use sunscreen post-treatment
During your consultation at Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, our highly experienced providers will evaluate your skin and discuss whether MOXI is the best treatment option for your specific concerns.
Preparing for Your MOXI Treatment
Proper preparation ensures optimal results and minimizes any potential side effects. Here's what to do before your appointment:
Two Weeks Before Treatment
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Avoid excessive sun exposure and use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
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Discontinue retinoid products (retinol, tretinoin) for 3-5 days before treatment
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Avoid other skin treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion
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Stop taking blood thinners if approved by your physician
One Week Before Treatment
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Avoid waxing, plucking, or other hair removal methods
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Do not use products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
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Avoid alcohol consumption, which can increase bruising and swelling
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Stay well-hydrated
Day of Treatment
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Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup and skincare products
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Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
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Sunscreen will be applied after your treatment
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Bring sunglasses to wear after treatment if your face is being treated
What to Expect During Your MOXI Treatment
Comfort Measures
We apply numbing cream to your skin 15-20 minutes before treatment to ensure your comfort. Most patients describe the sensation as a warm, prickling feeling rather than pain. The numbing cream significantly reduces any discomfort.
The Treatment Process
Your provider will guide the MOXI handpiece across your face in a systematic pattern, treating the entire face or targeted areas depending on your concerns. The treatment typically takes 12-15 minutes for a full face. Since Moxi can be performed anywhere on your body, treatment times vary for larger areas like legs, arms, or face/neck/chest combinations.
During Treatment
You may feel warmth and hear a clicking sound as the laser fires. The numbing cream keeps discomfort minimal. Many patients relax or even nap during the procedure.
Immediately After
Your skin will appear red and may feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn. This redness typically fades within a few hours to a day.
Recovery and Downtime After MOXI
One of MOXI's greatest advantages is its minimal downtime. Here's what to expect:
Days 1-3
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Mild to moderate redness (similar to sunburn)
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Possible slight swelling, particularly around the eyes
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Skin may feel tight or slightly dry
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You can return to normal activities immediately
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Makeup can be applied 24 hours after treatment
Days 3-5
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Redness continues to fade
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You may notice microscopic epidermal necrotic debris (MENDS) along with a bronzed appearance and a drier, sandpaper-like texture as treated skin begins to shed
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These MENDS typically slough off naturally during this window
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Skin begins to look brighter and more even-toned
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Most patients see significant improvement by day 5
Days 5-7
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Redness largely resolves
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Any flaking subsides
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Skin texture noticeably improves
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Results continue to improve as collagen production increases
Post-Treatment Care
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Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products
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Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily (non-negotiable in Florida)
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Avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week
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Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and chlorinated water for 48 hours
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Do not use retinoids or other active ingredients for one week
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Stay well-hydrated
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Avoid strenuous exercise for 3-4 days
When Will You See Results?
Immediate Results (Days 1-5)
Your skin appears brighter and more radiant almost immediately. Pigmentation begins to fade, and skin tone becomes more even.
Short-Term Results (Weeks 2-4)
Continued improvement in skin texture and tone. Fine lines appear softer. Skin feels smoother and looks more youthful.
Long-Term Results (Weeks 4-12)
Maximum collagen remodeling occurs during this period. Skin texture, firmness, and overall quality continue to improve. Results peak around 12 weeks post-treatment.
Maintenance and Longevity
Most patients benefit from maintenance treatments every 4-6 months to maintain active, year-round collagenesis. While a single MOXI treatment provides benefits for 6-12 months, after which your collagen gradually returns to baseline, which is why routine maintenance treatments are so important. Regular treatments maintain your youthful appearance year-round.
MOXI as Part of Your Comprehensive Skincare Routine
MOXI works best as part of a comprehensive skincare approach. At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, we often recommend combining MOXI with:
Injectables (BOTOX and Fillers)
MOXI addresses skin quality and texture, while toxins like BOTOX or Dysport address dynamic wrinkles and fillers target volume loss. Together, they create a more complete facial rejuvenation.
Microneedling
Microneedling stimulates collagen through a different mechanism than MOXI. Some patients benefit from alternating between treatments or combining them for enhanced results.
HydraFacial
A HydraFacial before MOXI treatment can enhance results by deeply cleansing and hydrating the skin, allowing the laser energy to penetrate more effectively.
Professional Skincare Products
We recommend a customized skincare routine with medical-grade products that support collagen production and protect against sun damage. This includes vitamin C serums, retinoids, and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Chemical Peel
We sometimes recommend a chemical peel prior to MOXI for patients who are more deeply tanned or have surface-level pigmentation buildup. A peel helps shed the outer layer of pigmented (“brown”) skin cells, allowing MOXI laser energy to more effectively target deeper melanin and support more even, consistent results.
Why Choose Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology for MOXI Treatment?
Board-Certified Dermatology Leadership
Dr. Cyndi Yag-Howard is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon with over 25 years of clinical experience in aesthetic and medical dermatology. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Duke University and her medical degree from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. Dr. Yag-Howard completed her dermatology residency at the University of South Florida, where she served as Chief Resident from 1996-1997, demonstrating exceptional clinical expertise and leadership.
Dr. Yag-Howard is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (FAAD), the highest credential in dermatology, and an active member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). She has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications in dermatological journals, contributing to the medical literature on dermatologic surgery, laser treatment, and aesthetic procedures. Her research and clinical work have been recognized nationally, including receipt of the American Academy of Dermatology's Patient Care Hero Award, which honors dermatologists who demonstrate exceptional compassion and dedication to patient care.
Dr. Yag-Howard's expertise in laser dermatology is grounded in decades of clinical experience and continuing education in the latest aesthetic technologies. She stays current with peer-reviewed dermatological literature and evidence-based treatment protocols, ensuring that every patient receives care based on the highest standards of medical practice.
Experienced, Compassionate Team
Our practice is led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Cyndi Yag-Howard, who works closely with a highly trained team of physician assistants, nurses, and licensed aestheticians dedicated to delivering exceptional aesthetic care. Dr. Yag-Howard personally recruited physician assistant Mona Entezari, PA-C for her expertise and leadership in both laser treatments and injectables, ensuring patients receive care that reflects the highest clinical and aesthetic standards. Together, our provider team has extensive experience with Sciton laser and BBL technologies and is committed to patient comfort, safety, and natural-looking results.
Customized Treatment Plans
We don't believe in one-size-fits-all medicine. Every MOXI treatment is customized to your unique skin type, concerns, and goals. During your consultation, we'll assess your skin thoroughly and recommend the best approach for your specific needs.
State-of-the-Art Technology
We invest in the latest aesthetic technology, including the Sciton MOXI laser system. Our commitment to cutting-edge equipment ensures you receive the safest, most advanced and effective treatments available.
Natural-Looking Results
Our philosophy is to enhance your natural beauty, not transform your appearance. We focus on subtle, progressive improvements that make you look refreshed and youthful, not overdone.
Comprehensive Aesthetic Services
Beyond MOXI, we offer a full range of aesthetic treatments, including BBL, injectables, microneedling, HydraFacial, Sofwave skin tightening, and more. This allows us to create comprehensive treatment plans that address all your skin concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About MOXI Laser Treatment
How many MOXI treatments do I need?
Most patients see excellent results from a single treatment. However, those with significant sun damage or seeking more dramatic results may benefit from 2-3 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Maintenance treatments every 6-12 months help sustain results.
Is MOXI painful?
No. We apply numbing cream before treatment, and most patients describe the sensation as warm and prickling rather than painful. The procedure is very well-tolerated.
Can I have MOXI if I have darker skin?
Yes. MOXI is safe and effective for all skin types, including darker skin tones. This is one of its major advantages over some other laser treatments.
What's the difference between MOXI and other laser treatments?
MOXI is non-ablative, meaning it doesn't remove the outer layer of skin. This results in minimal downtime compared to ablative lasers like CO2 or erbium. MOXI is ideal for preventative treatment and early signs of aging, while ablative lasers are better for more severe sun damage or deeper wrinkles.
Can I combine MOXI with other treatments?
Yes. MOXI pairs beautifully with BBL for enhanced results. It also complements injectables, microneedling, HydraFacial, and other skincare treatments. We recommend spacing treatments appropriately to allow your skin to heal between procedures.
How much does MOXI cost?
MOXI treatment pricing varies based on the area being treated and whether it's combined with other treatments. During your consultation, we'll provide a customized quote based on your specific needs.
When can I return to work after MOXI?
You can return to work immediately. Most patients experience only mild redness that can be covered with makeup after 24 hours.
Can I get MOXI in the summer?
Yes, MOXI can be performed year-round. However, strict sun protection is essential post-treatment. If you're planning a beach vacation, we recommend scheduling MOXI at least one week before travel.
How long do MOXI results last?
Results from a single treatment typically last 6-12 months. Maintenance treatments help sustain your youthful appearance long-term.
Where can I get MOXI laser treatment near me?
At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, we offer MOXI laser treatment at our location in Naples, where we proudly serve patients from Fort Myers,Marco Island, and nearby Southern Florida comunities. Our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Cyndi Yag-Howard, and her experienced team customize every treatment to your unique skin type and concerns. With over 25 years of dermatology experience and a commitment to natural-looking results, we're your trusted partner for skin rejuvenation in Southwest Florida. Schedule your consultation today to see how MOXI can help you achieve radiant, youthful skin.
Contact Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology Today
Ready to experience the transformative benefits of MOXI laser treatment? Schedule your consultation with an experienced member of the team at Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology. We'll assess your skin, discuss your goals, and create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve radiant, youthful skin. We are proud to serve patients from Naples, Ft. Myers, Marco Island, and surrounding areas.
What Our Patients Say
Naomi C.
"Dr. Cyndi is so amazing. She provides the quality of care that you could expect to receive from someone who is a family member. You receive true TLC at this practice!"
¹ Sciton. BBL HEROic. Available: https://sciton.com/bbl-heroic/. Accessed January 21, 2026.
