Erbium Laser Resurfacing
What is Erbium Laser Resurfacing?
Erbium laser (2940nm) is an infrared laser which is strongly absorbed by the water in the skin and can be used to precisely heat up and remove (ablate) layers of the surface of the skin. It does this in a very controlled precise way. This can be controlled to remove only the very thinnest layer of the skin (a micropeel) or our dermatologist can use it a stronger setting to remove/ablate more deeply and remove layers of skin. This removes surface imperfections such as pigment, reveals fresher younger skin underneath and flattens wrinkles and scars. Small or large areas can be treated.
What does the procedure involve?
Local anaesthetic numbing cream is applied to the area and left on for 30-60 minutes. Sometimes numbing injections are also done. The laser is then gently passed over the selected site. One or more passes are made depending on how deep a treatment is intended. The laser feels warm as it passes over the skin. Cooled air can be used to reduce the warm sensation.
How does the skin look afterwards?
The skin looks pink afterwards ranging from slightly pink for a micropeel, to intense red for a deep peel. In the case of a micropeel the pinkness settles over a 1-2 couple of days. In the case of deeper peels the skin looks deep red and there may be some oozing and the redness settles over 7-10 days. It is important to use good sun protection as the skin recovers to protect the fresh new skin from being damaged again.
As the skin heals it reveals fresher, younger looking skin and reduces surface irregularities and brown spots. New collagen continues to develop over 3-6 months.
