The ablative Er:YAG laser (2940 nm) vaporises water in the epidermis, producing precise, controlled exfoliation to a digitally planned depth — without affecting the dermis. The effect of a single treatment is comparable to more than a dozen chemical peels.
A laser peel using the Fotona laser is a treatment that produces controlled, laser-based exfoliation of the epidermis with an Er:YAG laser beam at a wavelength of 2940 nm. The laser pulse vaporises the water contained in the epidermis (so-called ablation), producing immediate, controlled damage to a depth planned digitally in advance — without affecting the dermis. It is an exceptionally precise and effective treatment, gentler than traditional exfoliation methods such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion. The result is improved skin texture and radiance, a smoother surface, a more even skin tone, softened wrinkles, a reduced appearance of enlarged pores, and a reduction in post-acne scars and pigmentation.
Unlike chemical peels and microdermabrasion, a laser peel vaporises only the epidermis, to a precisely planned depth, without affecting the dermis. Thanks to the extremely shallow penetration of the Er:YAG beam, exfoliation happens through so-called “cold ablation” technology — with minimal thermal damage below the ablation front. The exfoliation process is immediate, and new epidermis begins forming right after the treatment. A laser peel works across the entire surface of the treated area (full-spot coverage), unlike fractional Fotona fractional resurfacing, which creates a network of micro-columns. The treatment is most often performed on the face, neck, décolletage, hands, arms, and back.
The laser peel is part of our Fotona laser skin rejuvenation portfolio — alongside fractional resurfacing, FRAC3, and Fotona 4D. In total, we have performed 9,671 treatments on Fotona platforms.
Source: Versum and Booksy reports, as of 30.06.2026.
Energy is absorbed by water in the epidermis — controlled vaporisation (ablation) without affecting the dermis.
Exfoliation covers the entire treated area (not a network of micro-columns as in fractional treatments) — even, uniform exfoliation.
Healing begins right after ablation, forming new, smooth epidermis — revitalisation and brightening.
The depth of exfoliation is planned digitally and selected individually. For comfort, the skin is cooled with the medical Cryo6 cooling device. The treatment involves a short recovery period (peeling for up to about 10 days).
We use this treatment for 2 indications. It works a little differently for each one — below we describe exactly what it does in each case.
Controlled exfoliation with the Er:YAG beam removes a layer of the epidermis along with shallow, surface-level pigment. It works well for superficial pigmentation; deeper-lying pigment needs a beam that reaches further down.
02Controlled laser exfoliation of the epidermis smooths the surface and visibly reduces the appearance of pores. Of all seven treatments in this group, it works most strongly on texture — and it's the only one that involves a few days of visible peeling.
Not sure which indication matches your situation? See all indications or ask us during a consultation.
Ablative Er:YAG laser exfoliation is well documented in the literature. The studies below relate to Er:YAG 2940 nm technology — the mechanism shared by the laser peel.
This study evaluates a series of minimally invasive Er:YAG peels for skin rejuvenation — with an objective assessment of improved smoothness and skin quality alongside a short recovery time.
PubMed Central →A classic paper on Er:YAG facial resurfacing: ablation proceeds layer by layer with each pass, with minimal thermal damage — the basis of the peel's precision.
PubMed →An objective evaluation of Er:YAG (fractional vs. ablative) showed increased epidermal thickness and neocollagenesis — an increase in type I, III, and VII collagen in the dermis.
PubMed →The cited studies relate to Er:YAG laser technology, not to a specific device brand. The number of treatments is determined individually by a specialist; results may vary depending on skin condition.
The procedure starts with a detailed review of your medical history and a check for contraindications. The skin is then cleansed and make-up is removed, after which the treatment is carried out. A facial peel takes about 10–15 minutes; Cryo6 cooling keeps things comfortable for most patients. On the day of the treatment, the skin may be red and slightly swollen — this settles within 1–2 days. The skin then darkens and peels, revealing new epidermis underneath (for up to about 10 days). Throughout the recovery period, the skin should be kept moisturised and make-up should be avoided.
The specialist rules out contraindications and plans the depth.
Preparing the skin for the treatment.
Controlled exfoliation of the epidermis, about 10–15 minutes.
Peeling and epidermal renewal for up to about 10 days — keep the skin moisturised.
The laser peel requires a recovery period. Skin peeling is a normal and desirable part of the process. Throughout healing, the skin should be protected and kept moisturised.
For at least 4 weeks, keep the treated area out of the sun; use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen.
For 5 days, skip the sauna, intense exercise, and anything that dilates blood vessels.
Gentle cleansers (Cetaphil) and soothing creams (Avène Cicalfate, Alantan); avoid soap, exfoliants, and alcohol-based toners.
Keep the skin moisturised throughout healing; avoid make-up while the skin is irritated (3–5 days).
Book a follow-up about 6 weeks after the last session to assess the results.
Informational and educational material. Detailed recommendations are provided by the specialist; results and healing vary individually.
Genuine photos from our Velvet Skin Clinic locations in Warsaw (Świętokrzyska — City Centre, Niepodległości — Mokotów).


The price depends on the area treated and the depth of exfoliation. Even a single treatment produces a measurable effect, but for the best results a course of 3–5 sessions every 4 weeks is recommended. We work out the plan and pricing together during your consultation.
Fractional Er:YAG rejuvenation (a network of micro-columns) — deeper remodelling while preserving bridges of healthy skin.
Learn MoreNon-ablative 3D Nd:YAG fractional treatment — a strong lifting effect with no downtime.
Learn MoreTreatment for post-acne, post-traumatic, and surgical scars using Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers.
Learn More„Everything was great! Very friendly service. (translated from Polish)"
Michał · 2025review from Booksy„Very friendly and professional service. (translated from Polish)"
Wojciech · 2025review from Booksy„Very professional and warm. (translated from Polish)"
Aleksandra · 2026review from BooksyEvery case is assessed individually by a specialist during the consultation. Alongside temporary contraindications (recent tanning, retinoids, antibiotics, cold sores), the following absolute contraindications apply:
A laser peel is controlled, ablative exfoliation of the epidermis using an Er:YAG beam (2940 nm). The laser vaporises water in the epidermis to a digitally planned depth, without affecting the dermis. The result is revitalised, smoother, and brighter skin.
A laser peel exfoliates the entire surface of the epidermis (full-spot coverage), working at a surface level. Fractional resurfacing creates a network of micro-columns surrounded by healthy skin, reaching deeper into the dermis. The choice of method depends on your goal and skin condition — the specialist selects it for you.
The treatment is noticeable, but comfortable for most patients. For comfort, the skin is cooled with the Cryo6 device, which minimises any discomfort during the laser passes.
On the day of the treatment, redness and slight swelling appear and settle within 1–2 days. The skin then peels for about 7–10 days, revealing new epidermis underneath. During this time, the skin should be kept moisturised and make-up should be avoided.
Even a single session gives a measurable smoothing and brightening effect. For the best results, a course of 3–5 sessions every 4 weeks is recommended, with a maintenance session every six months to sustain the effect. The specialist determines the exact number of sessions.
The price starts from 500 zł and depends on the area treated and the depth of the treatment. We work out the exact pricing during your consultation. You'll find the full price list on our pricing page.
Treatments at Velvet Skin Clinic are performed by qualified cosmetologists with years of experience in laser therapy, hi-tech devices, and skincare treatments. After your consultation, we match the method and specialist to your skin and your goals.








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The publications underpinning this offering — with PMID identifiers and an assessment of the strength of evidence.