Comparing resurfacing options? See Erbium vs. CO2 resurfacing — they treat different problems with different recovery.

Two Erbium resurfacing modes layered in a single session. Performed personally by Dr. Amir Mortazavi, MD.

Most resurfacing is either full-field or fractional. This treatment uses both, sequenced in one appointment.

Full-field ablation removes a uniform thin layer across the entire treated surface. It's what produces the immediate change in surface texture, tone, and clarity — the polished, even result.

Fractional then delivers deeper columns of energy in a controlled pattern, reaching into the dermis to drive collagen remodeling below the surface.

Surface and depth in one session. Full-field alone improves the surface but doesn't reach far enough to remodel structure. Fractional alone works at depth but leaves surface texture between the treatment columns largely untouched. Combining them addresses both, which is why the result is more complete than either mode produces on its own.

Why Erbium rather than CO2.

Erbium is absorbed by water more efficiently than CO2, which means it ablates tissue with less residual heat spreading into surrounding skin. Practically, that translates to a cleaner cut, less thermal injury, and faster recovery with lower risk of prolonged redness and post-inflammatory pigmentation.

The trade-off is that less thermal effect also means less collagen contraction. CO2 remains stronger for deep textural change and significant scarring.

Erbium is often the better choice for: patients who can't accommodate CO2 downtime · deeper skin tones, where the lower thermal load reduces pigmentation risk · surface texture, tone, and fine lines rather than deep structural change · patients who want meaningful resurfacing with a shorter, more predictable recovery

Treats: uneven surface texture · fine lines and early wrinkles · sun damage and pigmentation · dull or rough skin quality · enlarged pore appearance · mild to moderate textural scarring

How this differs from standalone Erbium. The single-mode Erbium treatment is a lighter session addressing surface renewal. This dual-mode session adds the fractional depth component, producing a more substantial result with correspondingly more recovery. Dr. Mortazavi will advise which is appropriate — the stronger option isn't automatically the better use of your money.

What to expect: 45 to 60 minutes with topical numbing. Expect redness, swelling on the first day or two, and a sandpaper texture as the treated surface sheds. Most patients are presentable in four to six days — shorter than CO2, longer than non-ablative. Strict sun protection during healing is essential.

Not for everyone. Significant laxity needs surgery, not resurfacing. Active acne should be controlled first. Recent isotretinoin use requires a waiting period.