Is Erbium Laser Resurfacing Painful?

Most patients describe Erbium laser resurfacing as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful, but cooling methods and numbing agents help manage discomfort. The skin may feel sensitive for a few days after the procedure, similar to a sunburn, but over-the-counter pain relievers and gentle skin care can greatly help. As many have reported, the recovery process is tolerable, especially given the dramatic benefits.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The number of appointments needed after your consultation depends on the severity of the affected area. Some patients achieve their desired results with a single session, particularly for deep resurfacing treatments that target significant wrinkles or scarring, while others benefit from multiple lighter treatments to gradually improve skin tone and texture. Dr. Heringer will recommend the best approach for your specific case during your consultation. Maintenance treatments may also be suggested to preserve long-term results and keep your skin looking refreshed.

How Long Until I See Results?

Results begin to appear within a few days as the skin heals and reveals a fresher, smoother surface. However, full results will develop over several weeks to months as collagen production continues to improve skin firmness and elasticity. Patients who undergo lighter treatments may notice improvements within a week, while deeper resurfacing results take longer to emerge fully. Final results can last for years with proper skin care and sun protection, and many patients find that their skin continues to improve for up to six months after treatment as collagen remodeling progresses.

Can I Combine Erbium Laser Resurfacing with Other Procedures?

This treatment is most commonly paired with injectables like Botox or dermal fillers to address both skin texture and volume loss simultaneously, as well as chemical peels , microneedling , or IPL therapy . While some procedures can be performed on the same day, others may require a staged approach to allow for proper healing, but Dr. Heringer will recommend the best combination of treatments based on your concerns and skin type.

What Are the Risks Associated with Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

Erbium laser resurfacing is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced specialist, though, as with any cosmetic treatment, risks could occur. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and peeling as the skin heals. In some cases, patients may experience mild discomfort, prolonged redness, or sensitivity to sunlight. Rare complications include infection, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones. Following post-procedure care instructions, such as avoiding excessive sun exposure and using gentle skincare, can significantly reduce risks.

Scottsdale, AZ

Erbium Lasers

Introduction

Introduction to Erbium Laser Resurfacing

When you catch a glimpse of your reflection, you may see fine lines that weren’t there before, sun damage deepening over time, or scars that refuse to fade. It can be frustrating when your skin doesn’t reflect how youthful you really feel. If you’re tired of dull, aging skin and searching for a real, long-lasting solution, Erbium laser resurfacing can help you reclaim a smoother, more radiant complexion by gently removing damaged skin layers and promoting natural collagen production for a refreshed, youthful glow.

At Arizona Ocular & Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Dustin Heringer offers patients in Scottsdale, Peoria, and beyond this treatment to help you achieve skin that fresh, young look.

What is Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

Erbium laser resurfacing is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedure that uses a specialized laser to remove the outermost layers of the skin precisely. By targeting damaged skin cells, the treatment stimulates collagen remodeling and promotes the growth of new, healthy skin. The Erbium laser is designed to produce less heat than other resurfacing lasers, reducing discomfort and minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues. It can be adjusted for different skin concerns, offering either light resurfacing for a subtle glow or a deeper treatment for more significant changes.

What are the
benefits of Erbium Laser Resurfacing

Brunette woman against a neautral wall, touching neck - Erbium Lasers in Scottsdale, AZ

The procedure effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, mouth, and forehead, and can improve skin tone and texture by minimizing sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. One of the key advantages of Erbium laser resurfacing is its ability to promote collagen production, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time. Unlike other resurfacing treatments, Erbium laser technology minimizes heat damage, resulting in faster healing and less downtime. The procedure is highly customizable, allowing Dr. Heringer to tailor the depth and intensity of the treatment based on each patient’s needs.

Who are the
best candidates

This treatment is great for those around Scottsdale and Peoria with mild to moderate sun damage, acne scars, uneven skin tone, or other signs of aging, like fine lines. Patients with lighter to medium skin tones tend to respond best to Erbium laser resurfacing, as it carries a lower risk of post-treatment pigmentation changes compared to other laser treatments.

Those with active acne, certain skin conditions, or a history of keloid scarring may not be suitable candidates. They should consult with Dr. Heringer to explore alternative treatments. During the consultation, Dr. Heringer will assess their skin concerns and determine if Erbium laser resurfacing is the best option for them.

Your Erbium Laser Resurfacing Treatment Journey with Dr. Dustin Heringer

What’s the first step?

As mentioned, you should first speak with Dr. Heringer at his Scottsdale or Peoria office if you’re considering this treatment. There, he will determine if this is a good option for you by examining your skin concerns in conjunction with your medical history to ensure no underlying issues could affect the outcome of this treatment.

If you are a good candidate, Dr. Heringer will explain the treatment, including the depth of resurfacing needed and any pre-treatment instructions. Patients may be advised to avoid excessive sun exposure, discontinue certain skincare products, and follow a prescribed skincare regimen to prepare the skin for the best results.

What to Expect on the Day of Erbium Laser Resurfacing Treatment

The first thing you’ll undergo before the procedure is prep. Depending on the depth of treatment, a topical numbing cream or local anesthesia may be applied before the laser is used to precisely target and remove the damaged outer layers of skin, stimulating collagen production and new skin cell growth. This process takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment area and intensity, and afterward, cooling measures will be applied to soothe the skin before you receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. While some redness and swelling are expected, most patients find the procedure tolerable and can return home the same day to begin recovery.

Expectation

Your Guide to Post-Erbium Laser Resurfacing Care

Erbium Laser Resurfacing Recovery

Recovery from Erbium laser resurfacing varies depending on the depth of the treatment, but most patients experience redness, swelling, and mild discomfort for the first few days. The skin will begin to peel and flake as it heals, revealing fresh skin underneath, so it’s important to follow all post-procedure care instructions, including keeping the skin moisturized, avoiding sun exposure, and using gentle skincare products.

Lighter treatments may require only a few days of downtime, while deeper resurfacing can take up to two weeks for full recovery. Patients should avoid picking or scratching at peeling skin to prevent scarring and allow the healing process to occur naturally. Over the following weeks, collagen production will continue to improve skin texture, leading to long-lasting results.

How Much Does Erbium Laser Resurfacing Cost in Scottsdale, AZ?

The cost of Erbium Laser Resurfacing in Scottsdale and Peoria can range from roughly $2,000 to $2,500 or more, depending on the intensity of the treatment. Lighter treatments often cost less, while deeper resurfacing procedures may require a higher investment due to their intensive nature and longer recovery time. During your consultation, Dr. Heringer will provide a detailed cost estimate based on your specific skin concerns and discuss financing options. Schedule a consultation at our Scottsdale or Peoria locations to receive a customized quote.

Cost

Why Choose Ocular & Facial Plastic MedSpa?

At Ocular & Facial Plastic Surgery MedSpa, Dr. Dustin Heringer provides expert-level care with a focus on long-lasting, quality results. As a board-certified oculofacial plastic and cosmetic surgeon with extensive training in facial aesthetics, he specializes in advanced laser treatments that rejuvenate the skin while preserving its natural integrity. Dr. Heringer is a distinguished member of multiple prestigious organizations, including the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Facial and Cosmetic Surgery. Choosing Ocular & Facial Plastic Surgery MedSpa means trusting a skilled specialist dedicated to achieving the highest standard of care for your skin.

Why us?

Erbium Lasers FAQ’S

Most patients describe Erbium laser resurfacing as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful, but cooling methods and numbing agents help manage discomfort. The skin may feel sensitive for a few days after the procedure, similar to a sunburn, but over-the-counter pain relievers and gentle skin care can greatly help. As many have reported, the recovery process is tolerable, especially given the dramatic benefits.
The number of appointments needed after your consultation depends on the severity of the affected area. Some patients achieve their desired results with a single session, particularly for deep resurfacing treatments that target significant wrinkles or scarring, while others benefit from multiple lighter treatments to gradually improve skin tone and texture. Dr. Heringer will recommend the best approach for your specific case during your consultation. Maintenance treatments may also be suggested to preserve long-term results and keep your skin looking refreshed.
Results begin to appear within a few days as the skin heals and reveals a fresher, smoother surface. However, full results will develop over several weeks to months as collagen production continues to improve skin firmness and elasticity. Patients who undergo lighter treatments may notice improvements within a week, while deeper resurfacing results take longer to emerge fully. Final results can last for years with proper skin care and sun protection, and many patients find that their skin continues to improve for up to six months after treatment as collagen remodeling progresses.
This treatment is most commonly paired with injectables like Botox or dermal fillers to address both skin texture and volume loss simultaneously, as well as chemical peels, microneedling, or IPL therapy. While some procedures can be performed on the same day, others may require a staged approach to allow for proper healing, but Dr. Heringer will recommend the best combination of treatments based on your concerns and skin type.
Erbium laser resurfacing is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced specialist, though, as with any cosmetic treatment, risks could occur. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and peeling as the skin heals. In some cases, patients may experience mild discomfort, prolonged redness, or sensitivity to sunlight. Rare complications include infection, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones. Following post-procedure care instructions, such as avoiding excessive sun exposure and using gentle skincare, can significantly reduce risks.

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Schedule a Consultation

To book your consultation at our Scottsdale or Peoria location, call (480) 949-5990 or fill out our online contact form. Dr. Heringer will work closely with you to determine the best treatment for your needs.