{"id":3049,"date":"2026-03-28T02:22:05","date_gmt":"2026-03-28T02:22:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/the-great-laser-debate-co2-vs-erbium\/"},"modified":"2026-03-28T02:22:05","modified_gmt":"2026-03-28T02:22:05","slug":"the-great-laser-debate-co2-vs-erbium","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/the-great-laser-debate-co2-vs-erbium\/","title":{"rendered":"The Great Laser Debate: CO2 vs Erbium"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1>The Great Laser Debate: CO2 vs Erbium<\/h1>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"co2-vs-erbium-laser-which-is-right-for-your-skin\">CO2 vs Erbium Laser: Which Is Right for Your Skin?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CO2 erbium laser<\/strong> treatments are two of the most powerful options in skin resurfacing \u2014 and choosing between them (or combining them) can make a real difference in your results, recovery, and safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s a quick comparison to help you decide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Feature<\/th>\n<th>CO2 Laser<\/th>\n<th>Erbium (Er:YAG) Laser<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Wavelength<\/td>\n<td>10,600 nm<\/td>\n<td>2,940 nm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Ablation depth per pass<\/td>\n<td>50-100 \u00b5m<\/td>\n<td>10-20 \u00b5m<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Thermal damage<\/td>\n<td>50-150 \u00b5m<\/td>\n<td>10-20 \u00b5m<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Downtime<\/td>\n<td>7-14 days<\/td>\n<td>3-7 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Best for<\/td>\n<td>Deep wrinkles, acne scars, skin laxity<\/td>\n<td>Fine lines, pigmentation, sensitive skin<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Safer for darker skin tones?<\/td>\n<td>Higher risk<\/td>\n<td>Lower risk<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Sessions typically needed<\/td>\n<td>Usually 1<\/td>\n<td>1-3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Results longevity<\/td>\n<td>Several years<\/td>\n<td>1-2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p>Both lasers work by targeting water in skin tissue to vaporize damaged cells and stimulate collagen. But they behave very differently once they hit your skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>CO2 goes deeper and generates more heat.<\/em> That means more dramatic collagen tightening \u2014 but also more downtime and a higher risk of pigmentation changes, especially in darker skin tones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Erbium is more precise and cooler.<\/em> It removes thin layers of skin with minimal heat spread, which means faster healing and fewer pigmentation risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Neither laser is universally &#8220;better.&#8221; The right choice depends on your skin concerns, skin tone, and how much recovery time you can manage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"CO2 vs Erbium laser comparison infographic showing wavelength, depth, downtime, and best use cases - co2 erbium laser\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/images.bannerbear.com\/direct\/4mGpW3zwpg0ZK0AxQw\/requests\/000\/136\/398\/191\/NWlVkgmbMQEjwg21YZyAqEwDo\/e3b7e620d801a1661a32649ea8d12e0a529b2eb5.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\" title=\"CO2 vs Erbium laser comparison infographic showing wavelength, depth, downtime, and best use cases - co2 erbium laser\"\/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Co2 erbium laser<\/strong> terms simplified:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/full-face-laser-resurfacing-complete-guide\/\">Full face laser resurfacing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/from-wrinkles-to-wow-the-complete-guide-to-chest-laser-resurfacing\/\">Chest laser resurfacing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/co2-laser-for-surgical-scars-cost\/\">CO2 laser for surgical scars cost<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"understanding-the-science-of-co2-and-erbium-wavelengths\">Understanding the Science of CO2 and Erbium Wavelengths<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To understand the &#8220;great debate&#8221; between these two technologies, we first have to look at the science of how light interacts with your skin. In aesthetics, we use a principle called selective photothermolysis. This is a fancy way of saying we use specific wavelengths of light to target a &#8220;chromophore&#8221;\u2014in this case, water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because our skin cells are made mostly of water, these lasers can precisely target and vaporize damaged tissue. However, the <strong>co2 erbium laser<\/strong> wavelengths differ significantly in how they are absorbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557474\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ablative laser skin resurfacing involves selective thermolysis of epidermal layers<\/a> and the superficial dermis. By removing these layers, we trigger the body\u2019s natural healing response, leading to the growth of fresh, healthy skin and a massive boost in collagen production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The CO2 laser operates at a wavelength of 10,600 nm. At this frequency, the light energy is absorbed by water and converted into heat. This heat doesn&#8217;t just vaporize the top layer; it travels deeper into the dermis, causing &#8220;controlled&#8221; thermal damage. While &#8220;damage&#8221; sounds scary, this heat is actually what causes the skin to contract and tighten.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Erbium:YAG laser, on the other hand, sits at 2,940 nm. This wavelength is absorbed by water roughly 10 times more efficiently than the CO2 wavelength. You might think &#8220;more absorption&#8221; means it&#8217;s more aggressive, but it\u2019s actually the opposite. Because the water in your skin grabs that energy so quickly, the laser vaporizes the tissue instantly before the heat has a chance to spread to the surrounding areas. This results in a much shallower vaporization depth and significantly less residual thermal damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3580980\/\" target=\"_blank\">Scientific overview of CO2 laser technology and water absorption<\/a> shows that while CO2 is the &#8220;gold standard&#8221; for deep tissue remodeling, Erbium offers a level of precision that is hard to beat for surface-level refinement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"precision-of-the-erbiumyag-system\">Precision of the Erbium:YAG System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Erbium:YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet) system is a solid-state laser that we often describe as a &#8220;cold&#8221; laser compared to its CO2 cousin. Because it targets water so aggressively at 2,940 nm, it allows us to perform &#8220;clean ablation.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think of it like a high-precision scalpel made of light. Each pass of the Erbium laser removes a very thin, predictable layer of skin (about 10-20 \u00b5m). Because there is minimal heat spread, the surrounding tissue stays relatively cool. This is why <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2305-6320\/8\/12\/74\" target=\"_blank\">research on Erbium laser for skin surgery and diagnostics<\/a> often highlights its safety profile. It\u2019s an incredible tool for patients who want to refresh their complexion without the extensive &#8220;burn&#8221; associated with older laser technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"thermal-effects-of-the-carbon-dioxide-laser\">Thermal Effects of the Carbon Dioxide Laser<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, the CO2 laser uses a gas medium to produce its 10,600 nm beam. This laser is famous for its &#8220;stacking effect.&#8221; As we make passes over the skin, the heat builds up. This deep penetration is exactly what we want when we are dealing with severe sun damage or deep, etched-in wrinkles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The heat from a CO2 laser causes immediate collagen contraction. If you\u2019ve ever seen a video of a laser procedure where the skin seems to &#8220;shrink&#8221; instantly, that\u2019s usually a CO2 laser at work. <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39434507\/\" target=\"_blank\">Expert consensus on clinical recommendations for fractional CO2 laser<\/a> suggests that this thermal effect is the key to its longevity and its ability to treat skin laxity. However, that same heat is responsible for the longer redness and swelling you\u2019ll experience during recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-differences-penetration-depth-and-recovery-times\">Key Differences: Penetration Depth and Recovery Times<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When we sit down with our patients in Scottsdale to discuss a <strong>co2 erbium laser<\/strong> plan, the conversation usually turns to &#8220;How long will I be out of commission?&#8221; The answer lies in the histology\u2014the way the tissue actually reacts to the laser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Residual thermal damage is the amount of &#8220;cooked&#8221; tissue left behind after the laser vaporizes the top layer. For a CO2 laser, this damage can extend 50-150 \u00b5m deep. For an Erbium laser, it\u2019s usually only 10-20 \u00b5m. This difference is the primary driver of recovery time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Parameter<\/th>\n<th>CO2 Laser<\/th>\n<th>Erbium:YAG<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Residual Thermal Damage<\/td>\n<td>50-150 \u00b5m<\/td>\n<td>10-20 \u00b5m<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Reepithelialization (New Skin)<\/td>\n<td>~10-14 days<\/td>\n<td>~3-7 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Persistent Erythema (Redness)<\/td>\n<td>1-3 months<\/td>\n<td>1-3 weeks<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p>Wound contraction and healing happen in phases. With Erbium, the &#8220;wounds&#8221; are shallower, so the skin can re-epithelialize (grow back) much faster. With CO2, the deeper thermal injury means the body has more work to do to clear out the damaged proteins and build new ones. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qxmd.com\/r\/26963233\" target=\"_blank\">Histologic effects of resurfacing lasers on tissue<\/a> confirm that while CO2 creates a more robust inflammatory response (which leads to more collagen), it also requires a more patient approach to healing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"IMAGE showing the skin healing process over 14 days following laser treatment - co2 erbium laser\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/images.bannerbear.com\/direct\/4mGpW3zwpg0ZK0AxQw\/requests\/000\/136\/398\/509\/P0ev7XDZrzqqRpxBzMjR9og8N\/b281c560f7b5fd7b2f15c9b872fd4083fb40440f.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\" title=\"IMAGE showing the skin healing process over 14 days following laser treatment - co2 erbium laser\"\/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"downtime-and-post-operative-care\">Downtime and Post-Operative Care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you choose a CO2 treatment, you should prepare for 7 to 14 days of significant downtime. Your skin will likely be raw, red, and swollen. We often recommend a regimen of vinegar soaks (using a specific dilution) to keep the skin clean and help slough off the dead tissue without irritation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Erbium downtime is much more manageable, typically lasting 3 to 7 days. You\u2019ll still experience some peeling and redness, but it\u2019s often described as a &#8220;bad sunburn&#8221; rather than a surgical recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For both lasers, we take safety seriously. This includes prescribing prophylactic antivirals to prevent cold sore outbreaks (which can be triggered by the laser) and sometimes antibiotics. You can find <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/md-beauty-spa\/laser-skin-resurfacing\/\">more info about laser skin resurfacing recovery<\/a> on our dedicated service page, where we outline exactly how to baby your skin in those critical first few days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"long-term-result-longevity\">Long-Term Result Longevity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While Erbium wins on recovery speed, CO2 often wins on &#8220;one and done&#8221; longevity. Because CO2 triggers such deep collagen remodeling and dermal thickening, the results can last for several years. Many patients find that one aggressive CO2 session is more effective than three or four lighter treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Erbium results are beautiful but may require &#8220;maintenance sessions&#8221; every 12 to 24 months to keep the skin looking its best. However, for many of our busy Phoenix patients, doing a lighter session once a year is much more appealing than taking two weeks off for a deep CO2 peel. A <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/9366815\/\" target=\"_blank\">study on the longevity of CO2 laser results<\/a> noted that improvements in skin texture and wrinkle depth continued to get better for up to six months after the procedure as new collagen matured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choosing-the-right-treatment-for-your-skin-concerns\">Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Skin Concerns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, which <strong>co2 erbium laser<\/strong> is right for you? It really comes down to the &#8220;damage&#8221; we are trying to undo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are struggling with &#8220;dermatoheliosis&#8221;\u2014a medical term for severe sun damage\u2014or deep, structural wrinkles around the mouth (perioral) and eyes (periorbital), CO2 is likely the way to go. It provides the intensity needed to &#8220;reset&#8221; the skin\u2019s clock. You can see the dramatic difference in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/gallery\/co2-laser-resurfacing\/\">CO2 Laser Resurfacing Gallery<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamadermatology\/fullarticle\/477802\" target=\"_blank\">JAMA Dermatology study on CO2 lasers for deep wrinkles and scars<\/a> confirmed that the deeper thermal energy of CO2 is superior for improving the texture of skin that has lost its elasticity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you are younger or simply have fine lines and &#8220;crepey&#8221; skin texture, Erbium is a fantastic choice. It\u2019s also our go-to for general &#8220;skin brightening&#8221; and treating minor surface imperfections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"addressing-acne-scars-with-co2-erbium-laser\">Addressing Acne Scars with CO2 Erbium Laser<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Acne scars, particularly atrophic (pitted) scars, are notoriously difficult to treat. They require a laser that can reach deep into the dermis to break up scar tissue and stimulate new growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditionally, CO2 was the only answer for acne scars. Today, we often use a combination approach. We might use the CO2 laser to target the deep &#8220;ice pick&#8221; or &#8220;boxcar&#8221; scars and then use the Erbium laser to blend the edges and smooth the overall skin texture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve written extensively about how to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/erase-scars-with-the-help-of-laser-technology\/\">erase scars with the help of laser technology<\/a>, often combining lasers with other techniques like subcision (breaking up the fibrous bands under the scar). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4908744\/\" target=\"_blank\">Clinical evaluation of fractional CO2 for acne scars<\/a> shows that fractional technology has made these treatments much safer than they were twenty years ago, with significantly less risk of permanent scarring or pigment loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pigmentation-control-via-co2-erbium-laser\">Pigmentation Control via CO2 Erbium Laser<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to dyschromia (uneven skin tone), sun spots, and even certain types of melasma, the Erbium laser is often the safer bet. Because it generates less heat, there is a much lower risk of &#8220;rebound hyperpigmentation.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases, the heat from a CO2 laser can actually irritate the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes), causing them to dump more pigment into the skin as it heals. This is why the <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/11493293\/\" target=\"_blank\">safety of Er:YAG lasers for treating dyspigmentation<\/a> is so highly regarded. It allows us to vaporize the pigment-heavy cells in the epidermis without over-exciting the layers underneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"safety-and-suitability-for-diverse-skin-tones\">Safety and Suitability for Diverse Skin Tones<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most important factors we consider is your skin type on the Fitzpatrick scale. This scale ranges from Type I (very fair, always burns) to Type VI (deeply pigmented skin).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Historically, laser resurfacing was only for Types I and II. If you had darker skin\u2014including Asian, Hispanic, or Mediterranean heritage\u2014the risk of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) or hypopigmentation (loss of color) was simply too high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>co2 erbium laser<\/strong> debate is particularly relevant here. CO2 lasers, with their high heat and &#8220;thermal stacking,&#8221; are much riskier for Fitzpatrick Types III and above. If the skin gets too hot, it can trigger a permanent change in color or even a &#8220;line of demarcation&#8221; where the treated skin looks significantly different from the untreated skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/11493293\/\" target=\"_blank\">comparative trial on pigmentation risks in darker skin tones<\/a> found that Erbium:YAG lasers resulted in significantly fewer pigmentary complications. At 6 months post-op, only 5% of Erbium patients showed pigment changes, compared to 43% of CO2 patients. That is a massive difference in safety!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"minimizing-risks-in-darker-skin\">Minimizing Risks in Darker Skin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For our patients with darker skin tones in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area, we use very specific protocols to ensure safety. This often involves:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pre-treatment clarifiers:<\/strong> Using medical-grade hydroquinone or tretinoin for several weeks before the laser to &#8220;quiet&#8221; the melanocytes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Low fluence, multiple passes:<\/strong> Instead of one &#8220;hot&#8221; pass, we might do several &#8220;cool&#8221; passes with the Erbium laser to reach the desired depth without overheating the tissue.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fractional technology:<\/strong> Using lasers that only treat a percentage of the skin at a time, leaving &#8220;bridges&#8221; of untouched skin to aid in rapid, safe healing.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4008055\/\" target=\"_blank\">Fractional Erbium laser safety for photo-aging<\/a> has opened the door for many patients who were previously told they weren&#8217;t candidates for laser resurfacing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"avoiding-complications-and-scarring\">Avoiding Complications and Scarring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While lasers are incredibly effective, they are also powerful medical tools that require expert handling. Complications like ectropion (turning out of the eyelid) can occur if too much skin is removed in delicate areas. We also have to be extremely careful with patients who have a history of keloid scarring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A thorough <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3580977\/\" target=\"_blank\">review of fractional CO2 laser resurfacing complications<\/a> emphasizes that most &#8220;bad outcomes&#8221; are the result of poor patient selection or improper settings. This is why we always start with a comprehensive consultation to review your medical history and skin goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-power-of-combination-co2-erbium-laser-hybrid-protocols\">The Power of Combination: CO2 Erbium Laser Hybrid Protocols<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, the &#8220;debate&#8221; has shifted from <em>which<\/em> laser is better to <em>how<\/em> we can use them together. This is the era of hybrid protocols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By combining the two wavelengths, we can achieve the &#8220;best of both worlds.&#8221; We use the CO2 wavelength to reach deep into the dermis for tightening and the Erbium wavelength to refine the surface and minimize the thermal damage left behind by the CO2.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/md-beauty-spa\/pixel\/\">Pixel<\/a> technology is a great example of how fractional energy can be used to provide dramatic results with minimized downtime. In a hybrid session, we might:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use CO2 on deep wrinkles around the mouth and eyes.<\/li>\n<li>Use Erbium on the cheeks and forehead for a smoother, brighter finish.<\/li>\n<li>Use a sequential approach where Erbium &#8220;cleans up&#8221; the thermal debris from the CO2 pass.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/36856396\/\" target=\"_blank\">Research on combining fractional Erbium and CO2 for optimal results<\/a> suggests that these synergistic effects lead to higher patient satisfaction and faster re-epithelialization than using CO2 alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions-about-laser-resurfacing\">Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Resurfacing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"which-laser-is-better-for-deep-acne-scars\">Which laser is better for deep acne scars?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For deep, pitted acne scars, the CO2 laser is generally more effective because it can penetrate deeper into the dermis to stimulate the necessary collagen remodeling. However, for patients with darker skin tones, a series of Erbium treatments or a hybrid approach may be safer to avoid pigmentation issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"is-erbium-laser-safer-than-co2-for-asian-skin\">Is Erbium laser safer than CO2 for Asian skin?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Because Asian skin (typically Fitzpatrick Type III or IV) is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), the &#8220;cooler&#8221; Erbium laser is usually the preferred choice. It provides excellent resurfacing with a much lower risk of triggering excess melanin production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-many-sessions-are-typically-required-for-full-rejuvenation\">How many sessions are typically required for full rejuvenation?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For an aggressive CO2 treatment, most patients only need one session to see dramatic results that last years. For Erbium laser resurfacing, we often recommend a series of 1 to 3 sessions, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on the severity of the skin concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At the practice of Marc Malek MD, we believe that every face is a unique canvas. Whether we choose a <strong>co2 erbium laser<\/strong> or a combination of both, our goal is always the same: to provide a personal and artistic approach that delivers fantastic, long-lasting results. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We don&#8217;t believe in &#8220;cookie-cutter&#8221; treatments. By focusing on your individual comfort, the specific needs of your skin, and the artistic balance of your features, we help you achieve a refreshed, youthful look that never appears &#8220;done.&#8221; If you\u2019re in Scottsdale, Phoenix, or the surrounding Arizona area and you\u2019re ready to see what laser technology can do for you, we invite you to take the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/md-beauty-spa\/laser-skin-resurfacing\/\">Schedule a consultation for Laser Skin Resurfacing<\/a> with us today, and let\u2019s create a plan that brings out the very best in your skin.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the power of co2 erbium laser resurfacing. Compare CO2 vs Erbium for skin rejuvenation, scars, and pigmentation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":123456,"featured_media":3048,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[5],"class_list":["post-3049","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-plastic-surgery","tag-cosmetic-surgery"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3049","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/123456"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3049"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3049\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3048"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3049"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3049"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marcmalekmd.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3049"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}