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Erbium Laser Treatment
What is Erbium?
An Erbium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser is a solid-state laser that emits infrared light with a wavelength of 2,940 nanometers (nm). Erbium is an incredible treatment option for clients who wish to induce collagen and see improvement in signs of aging, skin laxity, wrinkles and fine lines, acne scarring, or other texture inconsistencies. Fractionating the laser allows for healthy tissue to remain and minimal skin damage – this means minimal downtime!
What are the benefits of Erbium laser resurfacing?
Erbium laser skin resurfacing can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns, including:
- Fine lines & wrinkles
- Acne Scars
- Sun damage
- Hyperpigmentation
- Uneven skin texture
- Birthmarks
- Benign and malignant cutaneous lesions
- Periorbital wrinkles (around eyes)
- Perioral wrinkles (around mouth)
- Lentigines
- Café-au-lait spots
Commonly Asked Questions About Erbium Laser Treatments
How does Erbium work?
During a treatment, the laser emits a beam of light that is absorbed by the water molecules in the skin, causing the outer layer of damaged skin to vaporize. This process promotes the growth of new, healthy skin cells and stimulates collagen production, which can improve the skin’s texture, tone, and elasticity.
What to expect during your treatment?
You’ll be provided protection to shield your eyes from the light while receiving your laser resurfacing treatment. Using a handpiece, the RN or APRN will scan an erbium: YAG laser beam across the treatment areas to precisely remove the most superficial layer of skin.
Following treatment, your body will grow a new, healthy layer of skin to replace the old, damaged one.
The procedure typically takes about 1 hour from start to finish. The comfort level will depend on the patient and the depth of the treatment itself, but generally, most people do not find the treatment painful.
What will skin look like after laser resurfacing?
After the procedure, your skin may be red and slightly swollen, but these side effects typically subside within a few days. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few days to a week. Patients may also experience some peeling and flaking of the skin, this is completely normal. During this time, it’s important to keep the skin clean and moisturized and avoid sun exposure or other sources of heat.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments needed varies depending on your skin condition and desired results. In general, 1 to 3 treatments may be recommended to achieve the best results. Treatments are typically spaced 6-8 weeks apart to allow the skin to heal and for new skin to regenerate. Collagen can take up to 12 weeks to fully rebuild.
Are there risks or side effects?
Laser skin resurfacing is generally considered safe, but like all medical procedures, it does carry some minimal risks. These risks can include scarring, infection, changes in skin pigmentation, and temporary or permanent changes in skin texture. Our providers are trained, experienced, and put patient safety and clinical results in the forefront of everything they do, including laser treatments. They will evaluate your skin before choosing an appropriate setting for you. This will help minimize the risk of side effects while maximizing your results.
How much downtime is there with erbium resurfacing?
The amount of downtime associated with the erbium laser skin resurfacing varies depending on the individual’s skin condition and the intensity of the treatment. However, most patients can expect 3-5 days of downtime following the procedure. After the treatment, the skin may be red, swollen, and sensitive for several days to a week. It is important you follow all post care instructions provided for proper healing and to avoid complications.
Not sure which laser treatment you want/need or where to start?
Come in for a free, hassle free consultation and our providers will determine if you are a good candidate and provide you with treatment options tailored to your specific needs and social calendar
