If you have fine lines or wrinkles around your eyes or mouth or on your forehead, shallow scars from acne, or non-responsive skin after a facelift, then you may be a good candidate for Erbium Laser Resurfacing. However, anyone with active wounds, skin lesions, or cold sores, an impaired immune system, or recently taking Accutane need further evaluation or delay. And of course, no pregnant or lactating women. Laser resurfacing may be done on skin types I-V, but darker skin types may need pre-treatment for a minimum of 3 weeks prior to treatment with a skin lightening agent such as hydroquinone to decrease post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

-A numbing cream will be applied prior to the procedure to limit discomfort

-A certain degree of discomfort, redness, and/or irritation during and after treatment is expected

-If any discomfort or irritation persists more than 24-hours, please notify us

Number of treatments vary depending on desired results. For best results, it is generally recommended to have 1-3 sessions, one month apart.

The top layer of skin will re-grow (and can be covered with makeup) within about 4-7 days, at which time you will see noticeable improvements in your skin’s texture, tone, and wrinkle appearance. Deeper laser treatments also stimulate the growth of new collagen, which takes 4 to 6 months to diminish wrinkles and tighten skin.

After the initial course of treatment, it is recommended to repeat the procedure every 6-12 months, but with proper maintenance treatments and skin care, you can make your results last much longer.

Recovery times will vary depending on your treatment. Skin should start sloughing off 2-3 days after the treatment, but a rosy “glow” can remain for several weeks. Generally, 2-3 days off should be sufficient, 3-5 days for more aggressive treatments.

Immediately after treatment, your skin will be red and feel sensitive and sunburned. Redness, swelling, itching or stinging may last for a few days.

Mild complications of Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing include milia, acne exacerbation, contact dermatitis, or perioral dermatitis. Moderate complications include prolonged erythema, transient post-treatment hyperpigmentation, and delayed hypopigmentation.

Laser skin resurfacing has become a gold standard option for the rejuvenation of facial skin’s texture, tone, and elasticity. Please contact us for detailed information on the scientific research.

-Darker skin types may need pre-treatment for a minimum of 3 weeks prior to treatment with a skin lightening agent such as hydroquinone to decrease post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

-People prone to cold sores should start antiviral medication to prevent a flare up

-Laser resurfacing cannot be performed on tanned skin, so please stay out of the sun: avoid direct exposure to the sun and tanning beds 4 weeks prior to treatment

-Wear broad spectrum SPF

-Avoid applying self-tanner for 2 weeks prior to treatment

-Inform the doctor if you have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the past year

-If possible, arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. Otherwise please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment in order to clean the skin

-Apply recovery balm, such as Aquaphor, several times a day until evidence of dryness, blistering, or swelling has disappeared, usually about 72 hours

-You may use a gentle cleanser or dilute white vinegar (1 tablespoon in 1 cup of water) after 24 hours

-You may notice your skin to be a little temperature sensitive

-Avoid exfoliants, scrubbing, chlorine, hot tubs, and swimming pools while healing

-When showering, avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area

-Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed

-Avoid direct sun exposure for 4 weeks

-Wear broad spectrum SPF 30+

-Anticipate wanting to take some social downtime immediately following your treatment