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Erbium Laser Treatment in Phoenix

The Erbium Laser is a type of laser that emits light in the infrared spectrum. They named it after the element erbium, which the active medium uses to generate the laser light. Erbium lasers are safe and effective and are commonly used in medicine, dentistry, and beauty treatments. They can remove tissue accurately while causing little harm to nearby areas. Erbium laser skin resurfacing is a modern treatment. It causes less heat damage and has a shorter recovery time than other laser treatments.

How Does Erbium Laser Work?

Like the Pixel CO2 laser, the erbium ablative laser works by delivering intense bursts of energy onto your skin surface. The laser ablates damaged skin, allowing new, healthier skin to grow in its place. The heat from the laser promotes collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness over time.

Er: YAG laser (Erbium: Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet): This laser is highly effective in ablation procedures with minimal thermal damage and typically used in dermatology and dentistry related procedures.

What is Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing treatment is a cosmetic procedure which is used to improve the texture and appearance of the top layer of skin by removing damaged or aged skin layers. Erbium laser skin resurfacing involves the removal of the outer layers of the damaged or aged skin to stimulate the growth of new and healthier skin cells. This treatment is highly effective in addressing a variety of skin concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, pigmentation irregularities, and rough skin texture.

What are the Benefits of Erbium Laser?

There are multiple benefits for skin treatments using erbium laser due to its precision and minimal impact on surrounding tissues.

  • Improved skin tone and texture
  • Precise and controlled treatment
  • Minimal thermal damage
  • Faster recovery time
  • Versatility
  • Enhanced collagen production
  • Customizable treatments

Who is a good candidate for the Erbium Laser procedure?

Erbium laser procedures are suitable for most skin types, but individuals with lighter skin complexion, especially skin types I and II, are the best candidates. Individuals must be in good overall health with no active skin infections or conditions in the treatment area. The best candidates are non-smokers. If patients smoke, they should be willing to quit before and after the procedure. This is important because smoking can slow down healing. If you are thinking about laser treatment, talk to a dermatologist to see if you qualify.

What are the skin conditions that the Erbium Laser treats?

The erbium laser is a versatile tool with various applications in dermatology. The primary skin issues it treats include:

  • Wrinkles and fine lines: Improves deeper wrinkles for smoother, more youthful skin. Can be used to reduce the fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead (1).
  • Scars: Smooths and minimizes the appearance of pitted or raised acne scars (2). Improves texture and reduces visibility of scares of surgeries or injuries.
  • Stretch marks: Laser treatments can be used to reduce the visibility of stretch marks by skin resurfacing and stimulating collagen production.
  • Skin texture: This treatment improves rough, uneven, or bumpy skin, including conditions such as keratosis pilaris and promotes smoother skin texture.
  • Actinic keratoses: As the laser can remove abnormal cells and can restore healthier skin, actinic keratoses can be effectively treated with erbium (3).
  • Superficial skin irregularities: Erbium laser can be used to treat superficial warts, sebaceous hyperplasia, and other minor skin irregularities.
  • Photodamaged skin: The erbium laser can be used to treat photodamaged skin (4, 5).
Once you have decided that an erbium laser procedure may be a good treatment option for your skin conditions, consult with a dermatologist. Share the information of any current medications, topical products, and supplements you are using. Your dermatologist will discuss your medical history, skin type, and treatment goals with you.

Typical pre-treatment instructions are to avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before the procedure, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, stop using retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and exfoliating products for 2 weeks and stay hydrated. Gently cleanse your skin on the day of the procedure and do not apply makeup, lotion or sunscreen.

Your provider may use a local anesthetic if necessary.

The specifics of recovery and post treatment depend on the type of laser treatment (ablation or fractional), the area of the treatment, the severity of the skin condition, and the overall health of the patient. For a factional resurfacing procedure, the healing process will take 1-2 weeks. For ablative resurfacing procedures, healing can take up to 2-4 weeks.

Proper recovery and aftercare are crucial to promote healing, minimize complications, and to maximize results. General recovery and aftercare guidelines includes following:

  • Expect redness and swelling and sometimes a sensation similar to sunburn in the treatment area. It could last up to 3 days for fractional treatment and up to 2 weeks for ablative treatments. Try to manage the pain with over the counter pain relievers such as Tylenol.
  • Peeling off of the outer layer of the skin can be part of the healing process. Avoid rubbing and scrubbing the skin. Keep the skin clean by using a gentle cleanser.
  • Apply prescribed ointments to promote the healing process. Avoid trying over-the-counter lotions unless otherwise approved by your dermatologist.
  • Protect against infections by using prescription antibacterial medications, especially if you have undergone deep ablative treatments.
  • Avoid sun exposure during the healing process.
  • Stay hydrated to support skin moisture and promote healing.
  • Avoid make-up and harsh products until the skin is fully recovered, typically for 7-10 days.

Contact your dermatologist if you notice any signs of infection (pus, excessive swelling or redness) or prolonged irritation.

Erbium laser treatments are generally safe and well-tolerated but like with any other medical procedure there can be side effects. Common side effects include, redness and swelling, discomfort or burning sensation, and temporary peeling or flaky skin. Less common side effects include, change in pigmentation of the skin (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation), scabbing or crusting, dryness and itching, infection and scarring.

Most of these side effects can be minimized by choosing an experienced provider, discussing your medical history before the procedure and following pre- and post-care instructions.

How long will the results last?

The duration of the desired results from erbium laser treatments depends on the type of procedure, the condition treated, and individual factors like skin type, age, and lifestyle habits. Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture treatments will last up to 1-2 years or longer with good skin care and sun protection. Skin tightening treatments can last 6 months to 1 year.

To keep results longer, many patients choose maintenance sessions. These sessions happen every 12 to 18 months for fractional treatments. They may also follow recommendations for their specific condition.

To make the results last longer, use a high-SPF sunscreen every day. This will protect your skin from UV damage. Keep a healthy skincare routine with moisturizers, antioxidants, and gentle exfoliants.

You might also think about using other treatments. Options include chemical peels or injectable fillers for better results.

Before and After Look Following Erbium Laser Treatment

Erbium Laser Treatment Before and After

Before

After 2 Treatments

Our Approach and Expertise

The staff at Saguaro Dermatology is committed to giving you the best care. Our physicians are experienced in erbium laser treatment and are ready to help you achieve the look you desire.

They approach each patient with compassion and know that each individual has unique skin. They combine this approach with advanced technology to give you the best results and healthy, beautiful skin.

The cost of this procedure depends on each individual treatment need and the treatment area. Prior to your session we can discuss and provide you with a better understanding of the cost for your procedure.

Final Word on Erbium Laser Treatment

The Erbium laser treatment is a precise skin re-surfacing procedure designed to address wrinkles, scares, brown spots, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and other skin imperfections.

By targeting and removing damaged outer layers of skin and stimulating collagen production laser treatment gives a smoother, firmer and more youthful skin.

If you would like to know if this is the right procedure for your skin condition, do not hesitate to contact an experienced dermatologist to discuss your options.

The team at Saguaro Dermatology has successfully treated individuals with different skin conditions. Our board-certified dermatologists and our caring and experienced staff are always ready to help you at Saguaro Dermatology, conveniently located in three locations, Phoenix, Mesa, and Ahwatukee AZ.

1. Trelles MA, Khomchenko V, Alcolea JM, Martínez-Carpio PA. A novel method of facial rejuvenation using a 2940-nm erbium:YAG laser with spatially modulated ablation: a pilot study. Lasers Med Sci. 2016;31(7):1465-1471. doi:10.1007/s10103-016-2010-z
2. Alster TS, Tanzi EL, Lazarus M. The use of fractional laser photothermolysis for the treatment of atrophic scars. Dermatol Surg. 2007;33(3):295-299. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2007.33059.x
3. Jiang SB, Levine VJ, Nehal KS, Baldassano M, Kamino H, Ashinoff RA. Er:YAG laser for the treatment of actinic keratoses. Dermatol Surg. 2000;26(5):437-440. doi:10.1046/j.1524-4725.2000.99283.x
4. Wanner M, Tanzi EL, Alster TS. Fractional photothermolysis: treatment of facial and nonfacial cutaneous photodamage with a 1,550-nm erbium-doped fiber laser. Dermatol Surg. 2007;33(1):23-28. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2007.33003.x
5. Goldberg DJ, Meine JG. Treatment of photoaged neck skin with the pulsed Erbium:YAG laser. Dermatol Surg. 1998;24(6):619-621. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.1998.tb04217.x

Saguaro Dermatology Reviews

Itaro Elaisa
Itaro Elaisa
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
“I totally recommend this place to anyone who’s looking for a dermatologist who’s professional, informative, respectful and very helpful. They are quick to solve your problems and get you home.”
Wendy
Wendy L.
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
I had an awesome experience with Dr Hamann and staff. I was very comfortable and i was able to have all my questions answered without feeling rushed. The staff was courteous and welcoming.
Kristin Ulrich-Uhles
Kristin U
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
“Dr Dathan and the team were very helpful, kind and knowledgeable. Plus, there was no wait time so I was able to get back to work faster than expected. I would highly recommend.”
robert
Robert P.
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
Staff was friendly, & on time. office is super clean!! Doctor was awesome, felt like a family member taking care of me.
Sally Shepstead
Sally S.
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
“Very friendly and professional. I had a great experience, Dr. Hamann was very good at answering my questions and concerns. I will certainly come back for another visit.”
amanda2
Amanda C.
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
Great doctor and friendly, professional staff. The doctor spends time listening and answering questions, something rare to find anymore. The office is beautiful and very clean. I love all the artwork with saguaros.
L
L
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
Dr. Hamann is very knowledgeable, nice, and professional. You can tell that he truly cares about his patients by the way he operates. He took the time to listen to all of my concerns then address them with good, well-informed answers.
Kylin Chen
Kylin L.
Five Star Google Rating Icon For Saguaro Dermatology Patient
“The office was recently renovated–it is a beautiful, clean, and calm environment. I would highly recommend this practice for anyone who is looking for a general dermatologist.”
Saguaro Dermatology | Phoenix Dermatology

About Saguaro Dermatology

Our comprehensive dermatology clinic is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care, innovative practices, helpful resources and state-of-the-art technology to prevent and treat a multitude of skin disorders. Led by Carsten R. Hamann, MD, PhD, Dathan Hamann, MD, FAAD, Michael McBride, DO, Millard Thaler, MD, Mohs Surgeon and Jenna Wald, MD, Mohs Surgeon, our passionate team looks forward to serving you with respect and compassion.

Contact Our Team Today:
Set up an appointment with our friendly staff at: 480.681.3300