Erbium YAG Laser Skin Resurfacing

In the past, laser skin treatment that addressed skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, skin laxity, and pigmentation typically used CO2 lasers – a more aggressive laser treatment that typically resulted in longer recovery time. Present-day, Erbium laser skin resurfacing treatments are becoming more popular for skin resurfacing due to their significant results and quicker recovery time.

Erbium is a laser skin resurfacing treatment for the face, neck, chest, and hands. The Erbium works to eliminate surface pigmentation, improve skin laxity, treat acne scarring and skin imperfections, and minimize mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles. The Erbium treatment requires minimal downtime and helps patients achieve dramatic results. Unlike the Venus Viva NanoFractional Resurfacing treatment which leaves the skin unharmed, ablative laser treatments such as the Erbium use infrared light to remove the top layers of the skin – stimulating collagen growth, reducing the appearance of fine lines, improving skin texture, and treating other skin concerns.

Erbium YAG Laser Skin Resurfacing Before & After

Is this Treatment for Me?

The goal of Erbium laser skin rejuvenation is to improve the appearance of the skin by removing the top layers, which helps to remove any minor facial flaws and blemishes like acne, wrinkles, age spots, and other problem areas. By removing the outer layers of the skin, the newer and younger-looking skin underneath is revealed. Ideal candidates for the Erbium 2940nm laser are looking to treat sun-damaged skin and other skin concerns such as:

Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne scars
Uneven skin tone and texture
Skin laxity on the face
Broken blood vessels on the face
Surface Pigmentation

The Erbium 2940nm laser skin rejuvenation is not recommended for patients with darker skin, due to the higher risk of hyperpigmentation during the healing process. Patients experiencing active acne outbreaks are also not ideal candidates. If you are unsure whether you are a good candidate for this treatment, please call us to schedule a consultation.

What Do I Need to Do Before and After the Treatment?

In preparation for your treatment, avoid direct sun exposure, self-tanners, and any harsh exfoliators. Alcohol should also be avoided for one week prior to and post-treatment. Smoking can also prolong the healing process and it is recommended to abstain from smoking for at least two weeks before your appointment. After your treatment, your skin will resemble a sunburn and may continue to appear red or pink during the healing process. It is important to use a daily SPF of at least 30 and avoid any unprotected sun exposure.

What Happens During Erbium Laser Skin Treatment?

During your Erbium procedure, a topical anesthetic will be applied to the area(s) being treated. The Erbium infrared laser is then directed towards the target areas of skin where it is heated with the Erbium laser, vaporizing the outer layer of the epidermis and stimulating and promoting collagen production. Once the treatment has been completed, Dr. Okwuje will apply a soothing serum and a bandage may be applied to the area. A typical laser skin resurfacing treatment lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.

Following your procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort in the areas that were treated, as your skin may feel like an intense sunburn. Over-the-counter pain relievers are recommended, as are cold ice/gel packs as needed.

What Results Can I Expect After the Treatment? How Long Will They Last?

Most patients will see immediate results after their Erbium procedure, with results continuing to improve up to a year and lasting several years. Within two weeks of your appointment, you may experience heavy scabbing to the treated area(s). It is recommended that a moisturizing ointment be applied daily for up to four weeks as needed.

Is this Treatment Safe? What are the Possible Side Effects?

As this is an ablative procedure, skin resurfacing may cause side effects such as minor burns, scarring or changes in skin pigmentation from the infrared laser heat. Mild swelling and temporary redness can be expected as well. However, the Erbium laser skin resurfacing treatment yields fewer effects such as redness and swelling in comparison to other laser treatments.

Erbium Laser Treatment at RevitalizeMaui

Restore your youthful glow with the Erbium laser skin rejuvenation. The dynamic technology used in the Erbium laser treatment will leave your skin supple and refreshed with minimum discomfort and downtime. Are you unsure if this is the right treatment for your skin goals? We’re here to help! Call us to schedule your consultation or appointment today!