Longer wavelength lasers are increasingly being used for the removal of fine lines and wrinkles (skin resurfacing). Generally at longer wavelengths laser energy penetrates deeper into the skin. However beyond a certain wavelength the energy of the laser is instead absorbed by water in the skin. When this point is reached the water in the first live cell in the laser’s path will absorb the energy. This makes lasers using mediums such as Erbium ideal for skin resurfacing.

When the laser energy is absorbed by water, the water in the tissue is completely vaporized. This causes the skin treated to shrink and shrivel stimulating the production of new younger-looking firmer skin.