Aerolase ERA's downtime depends entirely on the depth we choose together at consultation. Superficial and micro-peel treatments have 1–2 days of mild redness — most patients resume normal activities the same or next day. Medium depth runs 2–4 days. Deep ablation carries up to 3 weeks of redness — but unlike fractional treatments, it's one recovery, not one per session. Your schedule drives the protocol. We won't recommend a depth that doesn't fit your life.

ERA's 300-microsecond pulse technology is fundamentally different from older ablative systems that require anesthesia and aggressive cooling. Most patients describe a mild, highly tolerable sensation of heat — not the sharp discomfort associated with older Er:YAG or CO2 devices. Superficial ablation typically requires no numbing at all. Medium and deep treatments use a topical anesthetic, and very deep applications may use local injections. Comfort is one of ERA's defining clinical advantages.

ERA is FDA-cleared for all Fitzpatrick skin types I through VI. The 300-microsecond pulse technology was specifically designed to minimize PIH risk for patients who tan easily or have darker skin tones — the exact risk that older ablative lasers carry for your skin type. LiveWell's providers assess your skin individually and calibrate depth accordingly. If ERA isn't the right depth for your current skin condition at consultation, they'll tell you — and recommend what is.

LiveWell is one of the only practices in the Black Hills operating the Aerolase ERA. More importantly, ERA's results are entirely dependent on the clinical judgment of who calibrates the depth and designs the protocol. Courtney and Marie have built their reputation — through hundreds of verified reviews — on honest assessments, personalized plans, and outcomes that match what was promised. The "she won't oversell you" review is the answer. That standard is the differentiation.

This is exactly the question the LiveWell consultation is designed to answer. Courtney and her team won't put you into a treatment that isn't right for your specific skin and goals. They've built their reputation on honest, customized plans — which sometimes means recommending a different approach or timing. The consultation itself is your answer: a real skin assessment, an honest recommendation, and a specific plan built around your concerns and schedule.

This is something we take seriously — and it's reflected in how every appointment is structured. Courtney explains every step, answers every question, and makes recommendations based on your goals — never on upselling. If something isn't right for you at this time, she'll tell you that too.