Erbium Laser Treatments

Precision Resurfacing for Rejuvenation, Scarring & Benign Lesions

What is Erbium Laser?

Erbium:YAG laser (commonly called “Erbium”) is a high-precision resurfacing laser that targets water in the skin to ablate tissue with minimal heat. It removes ultra-thin layers of skin with exceptional control, making it ideal for:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Superficial pigmentation

  • Benign growths (like syringomas or dermal naevi)

  • Acne and surgical scarring

  • Texture irregularities

  • Targeted lesion removal (e.g. sebaceous hyperplasia)

At Northern Sydney Dermatology & Laser, Erbium laser is part of our procedural toolkit—chosen when finesse, precision, and faster healing are needed.

When We Use Erbium Laser

Dr Nina Wines selects Erbium laser in specific scenarios, including:

  • Full-face or partial skin rejuvenation, especially in patients who want less downtime

  • Precise removal of benign lesions (e.g. syringomas, sebaceous hyperplasia, dermal naevi)

  • Some surgical scar refinement, especially early in healing or in sensitive zones

  • In combination with other lasers, such as vascular or pigment lasers, for stacked rejuvenation treatments

Erbium is not a “lesser” laser—it is a different tool, with its own advantages. When in experienced hands, it can produce transformative outcomes with elegant healing.

Aftercare & Healing Expectations

Because Erbium removes skin with minimal heat damage, recovery is often quicker than with COâ‚‚:

  • Healing Time: 4–7 days depending on treatment intensity and location

  • Appearance: Redness and pinpoint oozing for 1–2 days, then pink new skin

  • Aftercare: Vinegar soaks, gentle emollients, no active skincare until re-epithelialisation, strict sun protection

Lesion removal often heals within 5–6 days with minimal scarring when done by an expert.

FAQs

Q: Is Erbium Laser painful?
A: Most patients tolerate it well with topical or local anaesthetic. The treatment is brief, and cold air is used for comfort.

Q: Will I need time off work?
A: Downtime depends on the intensity and area treated. For most cosmetic resurfacing, plan for 4–5 days of social downtime.

Q: Is Erbium safer than COâ‚‚?
A: It’s not about safety—it’s about appropriate use. Erbium causes less thermal damage, so it heals faster in some contexts. But for deep scars or thick tissue, CO₂ may be more effective.

Q: Can Erbium be combined with other treatments?
A: Yes. Dr. Wines often uses Erbium alongside vascular, pigment, or radiofrequency devices for layered skin rejuvenation.