HELPS CONTROL:

• UV damage
• Mild to moderate wrinkles
• Scars
• Freckles
• Age spots
• Melasma
• Some birthmarks
• Seborrhoeic keratosis
• Some non-melanoma skin cancers

PRICE RANGE: Professional treatments range from $800 to $3,000. Depends on location, treatment practitioner, treatment areas, and laser type.

AVERAGE DOWNTIME: 1-2 weeks of downtime, depends on treatment areas and number of passes performed. Mild redness may occur after treatment.

ERBIUM LASER THERAPY TREATMENT OVERVIEW

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The erbium laser is a type of solid-state laser. When its light penetrates the skin, it is absorbed by the water within skin cells, leading to their destruction. The heat generated in the surrounding tissue causes the existing collagen fibers to shrink and tighten, while also stimulating the production of new collagen. Unlike CO2 gas-state lasers, which can penetrate deeper, erbium lasers primarily affect the upper layers of the skin. Despite this, erbium lasers are highly versatile and can effectively treat both large and small areas. Their precision makes them especially useful for targeting small regions and addressing skin imperfections such as acne scars, dark spots, uneven tone, and texture, among other concerns.

As with other treatments that generate significant heat in the skin, the erbium laser may not be suitable for certain darker skin types due to the risk of triggering unwanted pigmentation. Similarly, when addressing dark circles around the eyes, if the discoloration is caused by pooled blood, an erbium laser may not be the most effective option. In such cases, alternative treatments like under-eye fillers may be more beneficial. As always, it's essential to consult with a medical practitioner to discuss all available treatments and potential side effects before proceeding with erbium laser therapy.

ERBIUM LASER THERAPY FAQS

Is erbium laser painful?

Erbium laser resurfacing can be either ablative or non-ablative, depending on the specific laser used and the treatment goals. Ablative lasers tend to be more painful as they remove the outer layer of skin. As a result, the level of discomfort during erbium laser resurfacing can vary. Fortunately, the procedure is performed using a topical or local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the treated area. After the session, patients may experience varying degrees of discomfort based on their individual pain tolerance and how their skin responds to the treatment. Pain medications or other pain management strategies may be prescribed to alleviate any post-procedure discomfort.

How long does it take to recover from erbium laser treatment?

While not as powerful as a CO2 laser, the erbium laser can still produce significant changes in the skin, which requires some downtime for recovery. Common side effects include general discomfort and mild swelling, and some patients may experience redness that can persist throughout the healing process. The initial phase of healing after erbium laser resurfacing typically lasts 1-2 weeks, during which the skin may peel or flake as new tissue forms. It's crucial for patients to keep the skin moisturized and avoid scratching or pulling at peeling areas, as this can damage the skin and increase the risk of scarring or infection. Full recovery after erbium laser treatment can take anywhere from 5 to 21 days, depending on the laser used and the condition being treated. Some patients may also experience lingering redness in the treated area, which can usually be concealed with makeup about a week after the procedure.

How long does it take for erbium laser to work?

The energy from an erbium laser is quickly absorbed by the water in skin cells, allowing it to instantly vaporize the targeted tissue. Afterward, the skin begins its natural healing process, generating new cells to replace the treated area. In some cases, multiple passes of the laser may be used to achieve deeper resurfacing. For this level of treatment, full results may take 4 to 6 months to appear as the skin continues to produce new collagen and elastin.

How often should you use red light therapy?

Red light therapy is a valuable addition to most skincare routines, offering numerous benefits with minimal side effects. However, overuse could potentially lead to tissue damage. Follow the specific device guidelines or consult an experienced practitioner to achieve optimal results. The general recommendations for LED Face Masks are 3-5x per week for 5-20 minutes per session.

How often should you get erbium laser treatment?

Whether follow-up sessions of erbium laser treatment are necessary depends on the condition being treated. Due to the laser’s high precision, it can target specific areas of scarring or discoloration, which may not require additional sessions. However, for more widespread issues like sun damage or signs of aging, further erbium laser resurfacing treatments are often recommended. The timing of these sessions will depend on how the skin responds and how quickly it heals, with a typical healing period of around 21+ days after the initial treatment. Once the desired results are achieved, maintenance sessions are usually recommended once or twice a year to sustain the effects of the erbium laser.

What should I try before erbium later treatment?

Healthy, well-nourished skin not only heals faster but also achieves better results from any aesthetic procedure. That's why professional skin care clinics often recommend treatments such as gentle massage, LED therapy, or microcurrent before and/or after procedures like erbium laser resurfacing. Proper pre- and post-treatment care plays a crucial role in the final outcome of erbium laser treatment regime. While there are many ways to prepare the skin at home, care instructions will vary depending on the type of erbium laser used, the area being treated, and the patient's specific skin condition. Therefore, it's essential to consult a trusted clinician for tailored pre- and post-care guidelines.

Is erbium laser treatment the same as Fraxel?

Erbium lasers derive their name from the lasing medium, erbium, which produces a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by water in the skin. This laser energy is delivered to the skin in a controlled manner, creating microscopic wounds that trigger the body’s natural healing process.

Fraxel® lasers, on the other hand, utilize a proprietary technology called fractional photothermolysis. This technology delivers laser energy in a grid-like pattern, creating numerous microscopic treatment zones while leaving surrounding skin unaffected. This approach also stimulates the body’s natural healing process, encouraging the growth of new, healthy skin cells.

Fraxel® lasers can use different lasing mediums. For example, the Fraxel® Re:pair system uses carbon dioxide as its lasing medium, while the Fraxel® Duo system combines an erbium laser (1550 nm) with a thulium (1927 nm) fiber laser.

*Always consult your physician before undergoing any procedure

**Follow all product use instructions and warnings

***If irritation occurs, discontinue use; if irritation persists, consult your physician