Ablative Erbium Laser
Similar to CO2 laser, the erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser targets water in the skin tissue leading to controlled vaporization of superficial cells and thermal injury in the dermis that results in collagen remodeling and healing. Also known as Er:YAG, or Erbium laser for short, this technique is performed in a similar manner to other laser treatments. The wavelength of the laser is 2,940nm and is absorbed much more efficiently by water in tissues than the CO2 laser. This results in less associated thermal damage to surrounding tissues to achieve tissue ablation, which then results in faster re-epithelialization and faster recovery times. These properties also made the hemostasis achieved with this laser less than with CO2 laser, and newer techniques have modulated the properties of the Erbium laser, or combined its use with CO2 laser, to improved hemostasis while maintaining the benefits associated with the Erbium laser. The depth of penetration is to the reticular dermis at most. The Erbium laser is a more superficial ablation compared to traditional CO2 laser. Also, the changes in skin color utilized during CO2 laser ablation that correspond with tissue depth are not present with the Erbium laser due to the fact that it does not cause the same coagulative effect. Instead, pinpoint bleeding it utilized to monitor for proper depth of treatment.
Concerns Treated
Uneven Skin Tone/Texture
Uneven pigmentation and skin texture issues are common and can occur for a number of reasons. Hyperpigmentation is the most common cause of uneven skin tone and texture, which is due to excess melanin production in the skin. Other causes range from hereditary skin conditions to lifestyle choices, acne and scarring, and hormonal changes. Dark spots, rough, bumpy, or reddish areas can be unflattering, distressing, and in some rare cases, dangerous. Finding the cause of your uneven skin tone or texture is the first step towards getting the treatment you need to resolve it.
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Smooth as a baby’s bottom. Not saying we necessarily want to correlate that to our faces, but the idea is the same. Fine lines, fine wrinkles, and crepey skin can disrupt the surface of our skin — let’s fix that.
Acne Scars
Pimples and blemishes don’t always fade away to nothing, and, just as there are several kinds of acne, there are several types of acne scars that breakouts can leave behind.
Melasma
Melasma. We’ve all heard of it. It’s the dark patches on the skin and the mask of pregnancy in expecting mothers. What causes it and what can you do about it? Let’s find out below.
Facial Skin Laxity
Skin laxity happens. Skin tightening happens, too — it just needs a little extra help. Let’s figure out how to save the collagen and elastin.
Concerns Treated
Uneven Skin Tone/Texture
Uneven pigmentation and skin texture issues are common and can occur for a number of reasons. Hyperpigmentation is the most common cause of uneven skin tone and texture, which is due to excess melanin production in the skin. Other causes range from hereditary skin conditions to lifestyle choices, acne and scarring, and hormonal changes. Dark spots, rough, bumpy, or reddish areas can be unflattering, distressing, and in some rare cases, dangerous. Finding the cause of your uneven skin tone or texture is the first step towards getting the treatment you need to resolve it.
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Smooth as a baby’s bottom. Not saying we necessarily want to correlate that to our faces, but the idea is the same. Fine lines, fine wrinkles, and crepey skin can disrupt the surface of our skin — let’s fix that.
Acne Scars
Pimples and blemishes don’t always fade away to nothing, and, just as there are several kinds of acne, there are several types of acne scars that breakouts can leave behind.
Melasma
Melasma. We’ve all heard of it. It’s the dark patches on the skin and the mask of pregnancy in expecting mothers. What causes it and what can you do about it? Let’s find out below.
Facial Skin Laxity
Skin laxity happens. Skin tightening happens, too — it just needs a little extra help. Let’s figure out how to save the collagen and elastin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Hydrafacial®?
HydraFacial®, aka hydradermabrasion, has been compared to microdermabrasion due to its efficacy in exfoliating dead and damaged skin cells. During a HydraFacial™ treatment skin is exfoliated at the stratum corneum layer to remove skin cells and oil. Next, a combination of salicylic acid and glycolic acid is applied to unclog pores of dirt and debris. A painless vortex extraction patented technology then removes exfoliated skin cells, debris, blackheads, and other impurities from the skin's surface. Finally, vortex fusion delivers an antioxidant formulation with potent peptides and hyaluronic acid. This procedure restores, rejuvenates, and detoxifies the skin.
What cosmetic concerns does a HydraFacial® procedure treat?
The multistep HydraFacial® allows for extensive exfoliation, nourishment, and hydration for a younger, rejuvenated appearing facial aesthetic.
- Acne: Cleansing and exfoliation clears acne causing bacteria and sebum.
- Rosacea: Damaged skin cells are removed through exfoliation to reduce signs of rosacea.
- Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Gentle exfoliation and cleansing refreshes and rejuvenates the complexion.
- Uneven Skin Texture: Dead and damaged skin cells are exfoliated to smooth skin texture.
Who is the ideal candidate for a HydraFacial® procedure?
The ideal candidate for a HydraFacial® has fine lines, wrinkles, minor skin discolorations, acne, or certain skin conditions like melasma. HydraFacial® is safe in all skin types and skin tones. HydraFacial® is not recommended for those on Accutane or with more severe skin concerns or scarring.
What is the average recovery associated with a HydraFacial®?
There is little to no downtime or recovery associated with a HydraFacial® treatment. Some patients experience redness and tightness for a few hours following the procedure. Candidates are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, and makeup use for 24 hours. Prescription skin care can be resumed after two days.
What are the potential side effects of a HydraFacial®?
There are generally no major side effects associated with HydraFacial®. Some patients experience redness and tightness that is temporary and resolves quickly.
What can someone expect from the results of a HydraFacial®?
The results of a HydraFacial® treatment are a brighter, refreshed complexion that will be noticeable directly following the procedure. Results will improve over a series of treatments, and after the desired aesthetic treatment is achieved, most candidates pursue maintenance treatments every five to seven months.
What is the average cost of a HydraFacial®?
HydraFacial® costs anywhere from $150 to $300. The actual cost of a HydraFacial® is dependent upon location, dermatologist, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.
In this page
- What is a Hydrafacial®?
- What cosmetic concerns does a HydraFacial® procedure treat?
- Who is the ideal candidate for a HydraFacial® procedure?
- What is the average recovery associated with a HydraFacial®?
- What are the potential side effects of a HydraFacial®?
- What can someone expect from the results of a HydraFacial®?
- What is the average cost of a HydraFacial®?
Preparing for the Treatment
Hydrafacial, also called hydradermabrasion, combines cleaning, extracting, and depositing serums into the skin for an effective exfoliating treatment that also nourishes and hydrates. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after hydradermabrasion.
~~before care~~
What to do before getting a Hydrafacial® treatment?
Before your treatment, it's important to follow these precautions in order to ensure your skin is in the best possible condition for optimal results:
- Stop using any Isotretinoin products for 6 months
- Discontinue any harsh skincare products for 2 days
- No exfoliating treatments for 48 hours prior
- Refrain from any resurfacing treatments for 1 month
- Avoid excessive sun exposure for 72 hours
~~during treatment~~
What happens during the Hydrafacial® treatment?
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- Skin is cleansed and gently exfoliated with hand held device
- Salicyclic and glycolic acids are applies to loosen deep pore debris and dirt
- A strong vacuum suctions and removes blackheads and other impurities
- Custom blend of antioxidants and hydrating serums are applies to the skin
- Avoid excessive sun exposure for 72 hours
~~immediately after treatment~~
What happens after the Hydrafacial® treatment?
Immediately after your Hydrafacial® session, you may experience:
- Temporary redness
- Temporary tightness
~~1-2 days after treatment and beyond~~
What to do after getting a Hydrafacial® treatment?
Treat your skin with extra care by employing instructions spelled out by your skincare technician to experience the healthiest recovery period.
- Injections okay after 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 1 day
- Avoid makeup application for 1 day if able
- Prescription skincare can be resumed after 2 days
~~results~~
What are the Hydrafacial® results?
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- Results are temporary
- Improvement in skin texture and tone day of treatment
- Upkeep treatments needed every 5-7 months
Schedule an appointment to get your customized treatment plan.
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