Erbium Fractional Laser

How it works

The Er:YAG wavelength is absorbed strongly by water in the skin, so it removes thin layers with less surrounding heat. In fractional mode, columns of skin are treated while neighboring skin remains. Healing is often a little quicker than CO2, though it depends on depth. Cost follows the area, the depth and density, the number of sessions and any added steps such as a booster or a mask. Results vary by person.

Who it may suit

• Shallow acne scars and rough texture
• Fine lines and early photodamage
• Enlarged pores
• People who want a shorter recovery than deep CO2

The treatment day

1. Planning. The doctor chooses depth and number of sessions. Ask for these in writing.
2. Numbing. Numbing cream is applied before the laser. Time and product may be on the quote.
3. Laser passes. The laser is applied in a pattern over the zone, causing heat and tiny pinpoint marks.
4. Dressing and review. A soothing product is applied and aftercare is explained.

Aftercare

• Redness and fine crusting commonly last three to seven days
• Moisturize and avoid picking
• Strict sun protection is needed
• Skip strong actives until the skin recovers
• Report pain, pus, fever or a cold sore

Things to know first

• Redness, swelling, darkening or lightening and infection can occur; scarring is rare
• Darker skin tones are at higher risk of pigment change
• Isotretinoin use, pregnancy and active infection are usual reasons to wait
• Several sessions are common and results vary by person
• Deep scars may need other procedures

What the price of erbium fractional laser depends on

Depth is a hidden driver. A light erbium session is quicker and may be priced lower, while a deeper setting that rivals CO2 takes longer and needs more aftercare. Ask the clinic what depth range the quote assumes and whether it can change after the exam.

Area and session count follow. A full-face plan and a single-zone plan are different purchases, and most plans use a series of two to four visits several weeks apart. Ask for the per-visit and course totals, and whether a package can be paused.

Add-ons deserve their own line. Numbing, soothing masks, growth-factor products, antiviral medicine and tax can each be listed or hidden inside a bundled price. A clear quote names them one by one so that you can see what you are accepting.