Erbium Laser Resurfacing Therapy in Sunol

The laser light is absorbed by the water in the skin cells, causing the instantaneous vaporization of the cell. As the laser passes across the skin, a small amount of tissue is removed at a time, allowing for the physician to treat only as deeply as needed.

The physician has more precise control because of the small amounts of skin removed at a time. The effects are less devastating and less painful than Laser CO2, which has a recovery time can last for weeks to months. Erbium Laser Resurfacing Therapy is less harsh and causes a sunburned sensation that clears up in a few weeks.

Significant benefits will be seen with just one treatment, but a series of treatments is often prescribed for maximum results.

Erbium Lasers are safer than CO2 and other laser resurfacing therapies because of its less intensive nature.

Risks may include possible infection, temporary or permanent pigmentary changes and scarring.

Depending on the depth of the peel, recovery takes from two to seven days. Some clients come in on a Thursday, recover over the weekend and are back at work by Monday. After a deep, full facial laser resurfacing you may not feel aesthetically ready to return to work for two to three weeks.

After treatment, a sun burned sensation may occur, and slight burning, tingling or redness may appear on the treated area. This will diminish in a few days, and normal skin pigmentation will return.

Noticeable results can be seen in a few days with complete healing appearing in a few weeks.

If you have unwanted lines and wrinkles, acne scarring or sun damage on your chest, hands, neck or face, you may be a candidate for Erbium Laser Resurfacing Therapy.

The treatment is easily tolerable and feels like a sunburn.

The results will last for many years if the skin is properly cared for. Smoking and excessive sun exposure will lead to damage, and new wrinkles can appear.

Alternative treatments include chemical peels, collagen injections, Botox® and CO2 laser resurfacing therapy.

Avoid sun tanning or tanning creams four weeks prior to treatment, and avoid Accutane® for six weeks prior to treatment. Aspirin and other blood thinners should also be avoided for at least three days before treatment. Do not have any open sores or skin infections in the area to be treated, and shave area before your appointment. Do not apply makeup or moisturizers.

If necessary, over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, may be taken. Cold compresses and Aloe Vera gel may be helpful in reducing pain, redness and swelling. Avoid the sun after treatment. If sun exposure is unavoidable, cover treated area with protective clothing and SPF 35 or higher.