blog
Laser skin treatments have gained significant popularity because of the impressive results they deliver and the many skin conditions they can treat. “Laser is a great option for patients looking to eliminate red and brown spots from the skin, treat acne scars, and even for skin tightening without a surgical facelift,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, Cosmetic Dermatologist in Austin, Texas. “It is important to note, though, that lasers can improve skin color tone and texture, but do not necessarily restore volume in the skin.”
Here is a breakdown of Erbium YAG 1064: Erbium is an isotope used in lasers, YAG stands for yttrium, aluminum, and garnet, and 1064 is the nm (or nanometers) corresponding to the laser wavelength. “This laser is a safe and proven technology that has been effective in patients of all skin types and colors,” says Dr. Hanson. This is a non-ablative laser, meaning it will not remove the top layer of your skin. Instead, the energy from the laser penetrates the skin’s surface, creating a rejuvenated, more youthful appearance by softening wrinkles and increasing collagen production.
The Erbium YAG 1064 laser also treats pigment conditions, such as sun spots and freckles, as well as vascular conditions like leg and facial veins. It can also remove hair in some cases by destroying the pigment in hair follicles.
“Many patients are unaware of how effective this laser is on onychomycosis, or toenail fungus,” says Dr. Adam Mamelak, dermatologist and skin surgeon at Sanova Dermatology. Nail fungus can cause unappealing, yellow, and brown discolorations. This laser uses heat to kill the fungus while improving the cosmetic appearance of the nail.
Other skin conditions have been noted to respond well to 1064 nm YAG treatments. Razor bumps, also known as Pseudofolliculitis Barbae, can be effectively treated by this laser. Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic skin disorder that causes painful abscesses and scarring from sweat glands and hair follicles in the armpits, groin, genitals, and breast regions. YAG lasers have been shown to aid in the treatment of this disease.
Contact Us
At Sanova Dermatology, we offer many ways to treat your medical and cosmetic dermatology needs! The YAG 1064 laser is just one way to combat a number of stubborn skin conditions. If you would like more information, please contact us today to schedule an in-depth consultation with one of our dermatologists.