How safe is the Erbium laser and what are the long term risks? I.e. scarring, hyperpigmentation, etc

Question

I’ve been using ClearLift to lighten my acne scars and it has helped some, but I’ve gotten a few consultats for erbium for more dramatic improvement. I’d mainly like to fix the hyperpigmentation from the acne scars, but I do have some very shallow scarring as well so erbium seems like a good fit. However, I’m very concerned about long term scarring or pigmentation so I’d like to learn more about the risks. Are there things I can do to prevent complications? FYI I am a Caucasian woman. Thanks!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan, lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection. Bimontly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin. If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmestic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Sachit Shah, MD · Answer

thanks for posting. 
as with any ablative laser, there is a risk of hyperpigmentation, reddness, swelling and scarring. 
The other suggestion is that if your scars are atrophic or think shallow scars you could consider bellafill injections with subcisions and perhaps a bit of TCA peel as well prior to treatment. 
Best Wishes

How safe is the Erbium laser and what are the long term risks? I.e. scarring, hyperpigmentation, etc

Answers (2)

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