Is erbium laser resurfacing done with an erbium YAG laser?

Erbium YAG is a laser technology that targets water in the skin. During resurfacing, it removes or heats selected layers so the surface can become smoother as it heals. The clinician may use an ablative approach, a fractional pattern or another setting depending on texture, lines, scars, pigmentation and the treatment area.

The laser name alone does not describe the whole procedure. Depth, density, passes, cooling and aftercare all affect the healing experience. Skin tone, active inflammation, previous scarring and medicines can also influence whether treatment is appropriate.

Before treatment, disclose recent tanning, cold sores, active acne or dermatitis, medicines and a history of raised scars. Follow the clinic's instructions about cleansing, sun avoidance and prescribed preparation. Afterward, keep the area protected as directed, avoid picking peeling skin and use only products approved for the healing phase. New skin can be sensitive to sunlight while it recovers.

See the overview of the [Erbium YAG Laser](/technology/erbium-yag-laser/).

Get in touch with the treating clinic if pain, redness, swelling or discharge is increasing rather than settling. Prompt assessment is needed for blisters, pus, spreading warmth, fever, eye symptoms or a sudden change in vision. Do not apply unapproved creams to a raw or peeling area while waiting for advice.

Ask whether the plan is fractional or fully ablative, what depth is intended, and which concern it is designed to address. Discuss expected peeling, downtime, pigment changes, cold-sore prevention, sun protection and the signs that healing is not proceeding normally.