Among a series of options, two specific wavelengths have become the basic tools for serious skin regeneration: 10,600 nm CO₂ laser and 1,550 nm erbium laser. This comprehensive guide will answer a key question: how do you make use of the unique capabilities of CO₂ laser and erbium laser? We will delve into their core principles, unique advantages, specific applications like CO₂ fractional laser skin resurfacing and wrinkle removal, and provide a clear framework to select the right tool for every patient’s needs.

These two kinds of lasers are based on the principle of selective photolysis, aiming at water molecules in the skin. However, their interaction with water are significantly different, resulting in different clinical results.
The ablative resurfacing powerhouse, the CO₂ laser, operates at a wavelength of 10,600 nanometers. This wavelength is very important because it has a very high absorption coefficient for water, which is the main component of skin cells. Instead of treating the entire skin surface, a CO₂ fractional laser machine creates a precise pattern of microscopic ablation zones, known as Micro thermal Treatment Zones (MTZs), surrounded by healthy, untreated tissue. This grading method is the basis of modern CO₂ grading laser skin surface replacement, which can control the injury, accelerate the healing and reduce the risk.(Source:https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lsm.20148)
Non-ablative stimulated erbium-doped glass laser works at a 1550 nm wavelength. Although it will also be absorbed by water, the absorption intensity is not as good as that of carbon dioxide laser. This key difference allows the 1550 nm erbium laser to penetrate the skin and transfer its thermal energy to the deeper dermis without evaporating the epidermis. It is classified as a non-ablative local laser. The main mechanism is that deep skin heating can produce controllable micro-injury, trigger the natural wound healing process of the body, and lead to the formation of new collagen (new collagen formation) with the passage of time.
Why do 10600 nm cobalt and 1550 nm erbium become the new gold standards? Each laser platform provides a unique set of advantages, which are suitable for different clinical goals and patient situations.
For clinics aiming to offer unparalleled versatility and cater to the widest range of patient needs, our integrated platform combines both technologies into one sophisticated system.
Our state-of-the-art CO₂ laser integrates a high pulse energy 10600 nm CO₂ laser machine and a multifunctional 1550 nm erbium laser module on a user-friendly console. This design allows doctors to seamlessly switch between different wavelengths, or even combine them in a single-layer treatment plan to achieve customized patient results.
| Feature | 10600 nm CO₂ Fractional Laser | 1550 nm Erbium Glass Laser |
| Mechanism | Ablative & Fractional | Non-Ablative & Fractional |
| Target | Water (Very Strong Absorption) | Water (Moderate Absorption) |
| Primary Effect | Vaporizes epidermal and dermal tissue | Heats deep dermal tissue |
| Downtime | Moderate to Significant (5-14 days) | Minimal to None (0-3 days) |
| Best For | Deep wrinkle removal, severe scars, actinic damage | Fine lines, mild texture issues, maintenance |
| Pain Level | Higher (requires topical/local anesthesia) | Lower (often well-tolerated with topical) |
| Treatment Sessions | Often 1-2 for dramatic results | Typically 3-5 for cumulative results |
A : Yes. Many clinics combine with collagen reinforcement of 1550 nm, providing delamination effect and faster long-term rejuvenation.
A : CO₂ provides a more noticeable improvement after the conversation. The 1550 nm laser provides progressive and cumulative enhancement with shorter downtime.
A :Yes. Because it is non-ablative, it will not evaporate the epidermis, so the risk of pigmentation changes is low.
A :CO₂ : visible surface reconstruction of the 1-2 meeting;1550nm: 3-5 courses of treatment, long-term improvement of collagen.
A :CO₂ : the customer is seeking major revision;1550 nm: customers looking for gentle repair and minimum downtime.
Choosing between a 10600 nm CO₂ laser and a 1550 nm Er laser is not about which one is better, but about which one is the best tool for your skin goals and lifestyle. If you are looking for dramatic and revolutionary correction of severe sunburn, deep wrinkles, or scars, and can adapt to a longer recovery, the CO₂ fraction laser machine is the decisive choice. If your goal is to gradually improve fine lines, texture and pore size and minimize the interference to daily life, the non-ablative 1550 nm erbium laser is a good skin care machine. For the ultimate in flexibility and results, our dual-wavelength platform empowers clinicians to harness the strengths of both worlds, offering personalized treatment pathways that can be tailored precisely to every unique patient, from aggressive skin resurfacing to gentle, preventative maintenance.
Beijing LaserTell Medical Co., Ltd. is a pioneer in the integration of advanced technologies within the field of medical aesthetics. Located in Beijing with convenient transportation access, we are committed to strict quality control, professional customer service, and innovative development.
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