Ablative Resurfacing (Erbium 2940 nm, CO2 alternative)

Adults seeking more dramatic improvement of etched lines, smoker’s lines, crow’s feet, acne scars, enlarged pores, and photoaging. Ideal when non-ablative options are not enough. Not a fit for active infections, recent tanning, or those unable to accommodate several days of visible recovery.

Erbium 2940 nm is highly absorbed by water, enabling precise fractional ablation of micro-columns while minimizing collateral heat. This controlled injury removes damaged epidermis/dermis and triggers neocollagenesis and elastin remodeling, leading to smoother texture, tighter look, and reduction of wrinkles and scars. Compared with CO2, Erbium typically offers faster re-epithelialization with less thermal downtime.

Most patients need 1–3 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart, depending on goals and intensity. Noticeable smoothing appears as early healing completes; collagen remodeling continues to build for 3–6 months. Annual or semiannual touch-ups can maintain results.

We cleanse, photograph, and apply topical anesthetic (≈30–45 min). With protective eyewear, fractional passes are delivered to the area; warmth and a prickly sensation are common. A cooling mask and barrier balm follow. You leave with written aftercare and a healing kit; expect redness and ‘bronzing’ for several days.

Plan 3–7 days of visible recovery on the face: redness, swelling, oozing/bronzing (days 1–3), then microcrusting/flaking (days 3–7). Less common effects include prolonged redness, acne flares, PIH (more likely in higher phototypes), HSV reactivation on the lips, or infection. Scarring is rare with appropriate settings and care.

Avoid if recently tanned or using self-tanner, with active infections, open wounds, or uncontrolled inflammatory skin disease. Pregnancy/breastfeeding: typically deferred. Recent isotretinoin use requires medical guidance. Photosensitizing medications, wound-healing disorders, and a history of keloids require caution. Darker skin types need conservative parameters and meticulous aftercare.

Yes. It can be sequenced with neuromodulators, fillers (timed 1–2 weeks from laser), pigment/vascular IPL on other visits, and supportive skincare (vitamin C, peptides, retinoids reintroduced later). PRP or biostimulators may be considered in selected cases to aid recovery and collagen.

Before: avoid sun for 2–4 weeks; stop self-tanner 10–14 days; pause retinoids/acids 5–7 days; discuss anticoagulants/aspirin with your doctor; start HSV prophylaxis if prone to cold sores. After: cleanse gently, keep the skin continuously moisturized/occluded, avoid makeup until re-epithelialized, change pillowcases, avoid heat/exercise 72 h, and use mineral SPF 50+ once the skin has closed.