Treatment Overview
Erbium:YAG Laser is a fractional resurfacing treatment widely used in Korea to improve wrinkles, scars, pigmentation, and skin texture. It works at a 2940 nm wavelength, which is highly absorbed by water in the skin, making it more precise and less aggressive compared to traditional CO₂ lasers. This allows for effective resurfacing with reduced downtime and fewer risks of post-inflammatory pigmentation—ideal for Asian skin types.
When combined with the Hollywood Laser Peel (Carbon Laser Peel), the Erbium:YAG Laser addresses deep texture and anti-aging concerns, while the carbon peel adds instant glow, oil control, and pore cleansing. This makes the combination a popular dual approach in Korea for both immediate radiance and long-term skin rejuvenation.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Wrinkles / Scars / Pigmentation family (Erbium:YAG, CO₂ Fractional Laser, Carbon Laser Peel, Pico Laser, Nd:YAG Dual Toning):
- Erbium:YAG Laser: Best for scars + wrinkles + resurfacing with less downtime.
- CO₂ Fractional Laser: Best for deeper scars + advanced wrinkles.
- Carbon Laser Peel (Hollywood Peel): Best for oily skin + pores + instant glow.
- Pico Laser: Best for stubborn pigmentation + scars.
- Nd:YAG Dual Toning: Best for melasma + whitening.
Purpose & Benefits
- Scar & Wrinkle Treatment: Improves acne scars, fine lines, and photoaging.
- Gentle Resurfacing: Provides precise ablation with reduced risk of thermal damage.
- Pigmentation Reduction: Helps lighten melasma, freckles, and sun damage.
- Collagen Stimulation: Enhances elasticity and skin tightening.
- Dual Synergy with Hollywood Peel: Combines resurfacing + pore cleansing + glow.
- Faster Healing: Shorter downtime compared to CO₂ fractional lasers.
Ideal Candidates
Erbium:YAG Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with wrinkles, scars, or uneven texture seeking improvement with less downtime.
- Patients with sensitive or Asian skin concerned about pigmentation risk after CO₂ lasers.
- Individuals who want both long-term anti-aging + instant glow with Hollywood Peel.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- Erbium:YAG Laser: Best for wrinkles + scars + gentler resurfacing.
- CO₂ Fractional Laser: Best for deep scars + more aggressive resurfacing.
- Carbon Laser Peel: Best for pores + oily skin + quick radiance.
- Pico Laser: Best for pigmentation + collagen remodeling.
- Nd:YAG Dual Toning: Best for melasma + whitening.
Possible Risks & Complications
Erbium:YAG Laser is generally safe and gentle, but possible effects include:
- Redness & Mild Swelling: Lasts 1–3 days.
- Dryness & Peeling: As skin resurfaces.
- Rare Risks: Temporary pigment changes (lower risk than CO₂ lasers).
Surgical Techniques Used
Erbium:YAG Laser uses fractional resurfacing technology:
- 2940 nm Wavelength: Highly absorbed by water for controlled ablation.
- Fractional Delivery: Micro-channels promote faster healing.
- Dual Protocol: Combined with Carbon Peel (Hollywood Peel) for glow + anti-aging.
- Protocol: 1–3 sessions, spaced 2–3 months apart; maintenance once a year.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness, warmth, and tightness.
- 2–5 Days: Light peeling and renewal of skin.
- 1–2 Weeks: Improved texture, tone, and clarity.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ daily to prevent hyperpigmentation.
- Use soothing creams and hydrating serums.
- Avoid harsh scrubs, acids, or retinoids until skin heals.
- Minimize sun exposure for at least 2 weeks.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Fresher, tighter-looking skin after peeling subsides.
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Smoother texture and more even tone.
- Medium-Term (2–3 Months): Collagen remodeling improves wrinkles and scars.
- Long-Term: Results last 1–2 years with good skincare and sun protection.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor evaluates scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
- Preparation – Cleansing, numbing cream, protective eyewear.
- Erbium:YAG Laser Session – Fractional resurfacing across targeted areas.
- Optional Add-On (Hollywood Peel): Carbon mask + laser for instant glow.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask, soothing ointments, or LED healing therapy.
- Follow-Up – Typically fewer sessions needed compared to lighter toning lasers.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea specializes in gentle resurfacing with Erbium:YAG for Asian skin types.
- Clinics use FDA/KFDA-approved systems (Lumenis, Fotona, etc.).
- Dermatologists often combine Hollywood Peel + Erbium:YAG for glow + anti-aging.
- More cost-effective than Western resurfacing programs.
- Seoul offers signature “wrinkle & glow” laser packages.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Erbium:YAG Laser in Korea:
- Single Session (full face): USD 400 – 700
- 2–3 Session Package (recommended): USD 1,200 – 2,000
- Erbium:YAG + Carbon Peel (Hollywood Peel): USD 500 – 900 per session
- Premium Anti-Aging Package (Erbium + Boosters + Regenerative Therapy): USD 2,000 – 3,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN boosters, Vitamin infusions): USD 150 – 500
💡 The Erbium:YAG Laser is often called “the gentle resurfacer” in Korea, loved for its balance of wrinkle repair, scar treatment, and minimal downtime.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Erbium + Hollywood Peel for anti-aging + glow.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Wrinkle and pigmentation protocols with Erbium.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Acne scar repair using fractional Erbium.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Erbium + Carbon Peel for texture + radiance.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium resurfacing + regenerative packages.
