Erbium Laser

Purpose of Erbium Laser treatment

The Erbium Laser emits a light that is absorbed by water in your skin cells. The targeted cells are destroyed and the body can begin growing smooth, healthier, more vibrant skin cells in their place.

What cosmetic concerns can be treated with the Erbium Laser?

  • Skin texture concerns
  • Superficial non-melanoma skin cancers or other pre-cancerous lesions
  • Pigmented or raised skin lesions

How many treatments are needed to see an improvement ?

Improvements can be seen after one treatment session; however, more sessions may be necessary depending on the specific cosmetic concern.

How much does each treatment cost ?

  • $200 for a single lesion
  • $500 for 5 lesions or less
  • $750 for up to 15 lesions
  • $1,500 for the entire face

Who is not a candidate ?

  • Children under 16 years old
  • Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Patients taking blood thinners or doxycycline
  • Patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy for cancer
  • Patients with active herpes or other skin infection(s)
  • Patients sensitive to strobe lights
  • Patients who scar easily

Risks of Treatment

Bruising, scabbing, redness, pain, scarring, & infection as a result of the laser’s ablative nature.

Changes in skin color may occur in patients with darker skin tones.

Before your Treatment

Acquire the following items to promote a smooth recovery process:

  • Baby shampoo
  • Cool compresses
  • Clean, soft wash cloths or gauze pads
  • Distilled water & distilled white vinegar
  • Small bucket
  • Fresh makeup & associated application tools
  • Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, & Hydrocortisone cream
  • Wide brimmed hat
  • Mini portable cooling fan

Avoid exposure to the sun and tanning beds for 1 month prior to treatment.

Avoid using exfoliating or retinol-type products for 1 week prior to treatment.

Avoid medications and supplements that inhibit blood clotting for 1 week prior to treatment. Ask your doctor before stopping any prescribed blood thinners.

Sanitize your pillowcases, soft washcloths, face masks, and makeup application tools.

Cool Compress materials → Freezer & Skin moisturizer → Refrigerator

Prepare the necessary solution for post-procedure vinegar soaks & place bucket in the refrigerator –

  • Mix 1 tsp of plain white vinegar with 2 cups of cold distilled water
  • Be mindful to mix a new fresh batch of solution for each vinegar soak session to prevent infection

Begin antiviral medication starting 1 week prior to treatment if history of herpes simplex infection (lips, mouth, face).

Day of Treatment

Getting Ready Tips – Shower the morning of your procedure. Your skin will be very temperature sensitive the first night. Avoid hairspray & any jewelry above the shoulders (it may be flammable). Make sure your face is clean and completely free of any makeup. Shave hair from any area(s) that are to be treated. Wear a comfortable top that is easy to wash & that doesn’t need to be removed over the head.

Payment is expected upon arrival.

Procedure will take approximately 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the surface area.

During the procedure, your skin will feel a hot, snapping sensation.

Before leaving, your face will be lathered with Aquaphor/Vaseline.

Recovery Timeline

 

First Night

  • Expect the following – moderate pain, pin-point bleeding, redness, swelling, sunburn sensation
  • Sleep with head slightly elevated (reduces swelling)
  • Ensure treatment area is generously always covered with Aquaphor/Vaseline
  • Do not wash the treatment area the first night
  • Begin Vinegar Soak Regimen (see above instructions)

Day 1 to 4

  • Expect the following – moderate pain, pin-point bleeding, redness, swelling, sunburn sensation, leathery brown appearance, & superficial scabs
  • Gently wash treatment area 2 -3 x a day with gentle facial cleanser
  • Use sun protection ( EX: SPF, Hat, Scarf )
  • Ensure treatment area is generously covered with Aquaphor/Vaseline at all times
  • Vinegar soaks as needed

Day 4 to 7

  • Expect the following – minor discomfort, skin peeling, redness, swelling, leathery brown appearance, & superficial scabs
  • Gently wash treatment area 2 -3 x a day with gentle facial cleanser
  • Use sun protection ( EX: SPF, Hat, Scarf )
  • Ensure treatment area is generously covered with Aquaphor/Vaseline at all times
  • Vinegar soaks as needed

Week 2

  • In most cases, the superficial scabs should peel off, leaving the skin a bit red overall
  • Gently wash treatment area 2 -3 x a day with mild facial cleanser
  • Apply gentle facial moisturizer
  • Use sun protection ( EX: SPF, Hat, Scarf )

Week 3

  • In most cases, the skin will appear rather pink overall
  • Gently wash treatment area 2 -3 x a day with mild facial cleanser
  • Apply gentle facial moisturizer
  • Use sun protection ( EX: SPF, Hat, Scarf )