In each edition, Modern Aesthetics® asks top cosmetic physicians about the newest cosmeceuticals that they are offering to patients. Here, Manhasset, NY-based dermatologist Neil Brody, MD answers our questions about Topix's Surgically Sterile Biocellulose Recovery Mask.
What is Topix's Surgically Sterile Biocellulose Recovery Mask?
Neil Brody, MD: It is a recovery mask that helps to speed post-procedure healing, and it can be part of your practice's private label brand. We have long wondered what we can do in laser medicine to encourage faster wound healing, so I began testing this mask as a tool to help assess recovery, and it was so effective that I started to use it on its own.
This particular biofilm is the most amazing thing I have ever seen in terms of making wounds heal faster. Not only does this mask reduce redness, but it actually enhances the quality of the result. The mask is very occlusive, which is helpful for wound healing. However, since it is worn for such a short time after a procedure, this is not the sole reason the mask is so effective. Ingredients—including resveratrol, a small sequence peptide, fractionated hyaluronic acid, peptides and other antioxidants—also play a role in the effects we are seeing in our patients.
How do you suggest that your patients use this product?
Dr. Brody: I suggest that patients use the mask for 15 to 20 minutes after every treatment that induces redness, including ablative and non-ablative laser, microneedling, and chemical peels.
It can also be part of an anti-aging regimen. We start by offering it in-office after treatment with energy-based devices and then send patients home with a handful of masks so they heal faster.
The mask is surfaced on both sides so when it's taken out of the packaging, it is very juicy. Patients peel off one side and then the other and apply the mask to their face. The mask is sterilized with radiation so we can place it over anything without worrying—even open wounds.
What type of results are your patients seeing?
Dr. Brody: Patients report increased hydration, skin cooling, reduced redness, less discomfort, and a healthy, radiant complexion. If we cut out a couple of days of downtime with better post-procedure wound care, patients do better, are happier, and are more likely to return for future treatments. It's a win-win-win.
