Erbium Laser
The Erbium Laser is a powerful ablative laser that uses water to remove layers of unwanted skin. Dr. Gallacher uses a concentrated beam of light to heat the water in the patient’s skin, vaporizing the targeted tissue. The goal is to damage the skin just enough to stimulate the natural healing process.
Erbium Laser treatment yields immediate results. Some conditions, such as shallow wrinkles and scars, may be completely erased after only one treatment! Others, such as deep wrinkles, may require more than one treatment.
What Is It Used For?
The Erbium Laser can be used for a variety of skin conditions:
- Wrinkles, fine lines, and lax skin
- Acne scars
- Moles and skin tags
- Scars from surgery or an accident
- Sun-damaged skin
- Certain types of skin lesions such as those caused by skin cancer (as a complement to surgery)
Follow-up To Treatment
In most cases, treatment lasts about 15 – 20 minutes, although a full face treatment may take up to 2 hours. Dr. Gallacher applies a local anesthetic before the procedure, and a healing ointment afterward. She may also apply a bandage.
Depending on the type and severity of the condition, Dr. Gallacher encourages patients to moisturize the skin, avoid sun exposure, and keep up a regular cleansing schedule. Cold, damp compresses may help with any swelling or bruising. Most patients experience minimal crusting, redness, or irritation. The skin should regenerate in about 10 to 14 days, with its natural color returning in 2 to 8 weeks. You should use sunscreen (SPF 30+) for several months following the procedure. You may visit our web page to view medical grade skin care products available in our office.