What should you know about Er:YAG laser resurfacing?

Er:YAG is an erbium-based laser used for skin resurfacing. Its energy is absorbed by water in the skin, allowing a clinician to remove a measured amount of surface tissue. It may soften fine lines, rough texture, uneven tone, and some marks associated with sun-damaged skin. Treatment depth and intensity vary with the concern, body area, and desired recovery. A lighter approach may affect the surface only, while a deeper treatment creates a longer healing period.

Redness, warmth, swelling, peeling, and temporary sensitivity can occur while the skin repairs itself. Changes in pigmentation, infection, scarring, or prolonged redness are possible and should be discussed before treatment, particularly for richly pigmented or sensitive skin.

At a consultation, disclose your skin history, tendency to form raised scars, recent tanning, active irritation, cold sores, medicines, and previous procedures. Your clinician may adjust the plan or postpone treatment when the skin barrier is inflamed. Protect the area from sunlight, follow the wound-care instructions, and use only products approved for the healing stage. Do not pick peeling skin or restart exfoliants until advised. A clinician can compare resurfacing with a [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/) or explain how it differs from [CO2 Laser](/technology/co2-laser/) and [Thulium Laser](/technology/thulium-laser/).

Contact the treating clinic if pain, swelling, redness, or drainage is worsening rather than settling, or if blisters, fever, spreading warmth, or pus develops. Seek prompt assessment for eye pain, vision change, or marked swelling after treatment near the eyes. New darkening or lightening that persists beyond the expected healing plan also deserves review.

Ask which depth and laser setting fit your concern, what healing stages to expect, how sun exposure will be managed, and which warning signs require a same-day call. Ask whether your medical history or current medicines changes the plan.