What Is A Dual-Wavelength Thulium & Erbium Glass Laser?
Pure Tone Journal · Fractional Laser Technology
What Is a Dual-Wavelength Thulium & Erbium Glass Laser?
Combining 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass allows practitioners to address different levels within the skin using one fractional laser platform.
The two wavelengths have complementary roles. 1927nm Thulium is particularly relevant to pigmentation, uneven tone and superficial skin renewal, while 1550nm Erbium Glass works deeper within the dermis to support collagen remodelling, texture improvement, fine lines and selected acne scars.
For clinics, understanding how these wavelengths differ is the starting point for deciding where dual-wavelength laser treatment fits within a professional skin-rejuvenation menu.
Quick Answer: What Is a Dual-Wavelength Thulium & Erbium Glass Laser?
A dual-wavelength Thulium and Erbium Glass laser combines 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass in one fractional laser system.
The 1927nm wavelength is mainly used for more superficial concerns, including pigmentation, uneven tone, sun-related skin changes and skin quality. The 1550nm wavelength penetrates deeper, where controlled thermal treatment can stimulate dermal remodelling and support improvements in texture, fine lines and selected scarring.
Together, they provide two complementary non-ablative fractional treatment options. They are not identical treatments, and the practitioner selects the appropriate wavelength and settings according to the patient's skin and clinical objective.
Understanding fractional photothermolysis
How Does Dual-Wavelength Fractional Laser Technology Work?
Fractional treatment allows energy to be delivered to microscopic areas of the skin rather than uniformly treating the entire surface.
Both 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass primarily target water within tissue. The energy creates controlled microscopic zones of thermal injury, commonly referred to as microthermal treatment zones (MTZs).
Between these zones, surrounding tissue remains untreated, supporting the healing response that follows fractional treatment.
As the skin repairs, changes can occur within the extracellular matrix, including collagen remodelling. This process underpins the use of non-ablative fractional lasers for selected texture, scar and skin-rejuvenation concerns.
The distinction between the two wavelengths lies partly in how their energy is absorbed and distributed within the skin. The 1927nm wavelength produces a more superficial treatment profile, while 1550nm can reach deeper dermal structures.
Importantly, actual treatment depth and skin response depend on the laser system, pulse energy, density and selected protocol. They cannot be determined from the wavelength alone.
Two wavelengths · Different treatment roles
1927nm Thulium & 1550nm Erbium Glass
Understanding the individual strengths of each wavelength explains why they are useful together.
1927nm Thulium
1927nm Thulium is particularly relevant to superficial fractional skin renewal, including uneven tone, selected pigmentation, sun-related skin changes, visible pores and overall skin quality.
Its more superficial action makes it a useful option for patients whose main concerns are pigmentation, brightness and surface texture.
Treatment intensity and downtime depend on the settings used and the patient's response.
1550nm Erbium Glass
1550nm Erbium Glass provides deeper non-ablative fractional treatment within the dermis.
It has an established role in selected acne scars, skin texture, fine lines and collagen remodelling.
For clinics seeing patients with mixed textural concerns, this deeper treatment option can complement the more superficial role of Thulium.
The benefit of a dual-wavelength approach
Why Combine Thulium and Erbium Glass?
Patients rarely arrive with only one skin concern.
Someone seeking treatment for pigmentation may also have rough texture or visible pores. A patient concerned about acne scarring may also want a more even tone and improvement in overall skin quality.
Combining 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass in one platform gives practitioners more flexibility when deciding which concerns to prioritise.
The two wavelengths can be selected according to the clinical objective, and appropriately planned combination treatment may be considered where supported by the machine's protocols and the patient's suitability.
This does not mean every patient requires both wavelengths. A well-planned single-wavelength treatment may be more appropriate depending on the condition, skin phototype and desired outcome.
The Practical Advantage
One platform gives clinics access to both more superficial fractional skin renewal and deeper non-ablative dermal treatment.
The benefit is not simply having two wavelengths on a specification sheet. It is having a wider range of treatment options available following consultation.
Professional skin rejuvenation
What Can Clinics Treat With Dual-Wavelength Technology?
The different treatment depths give clinics a wider range of potential skin-rejuvenation applications.
Pigmentation & Sun Damage
1927nm Thulium is particularly relevant to selected superficial pigmentation, sun-related skin changes and uneven tone.
Accurate assessment is essential, as not all pigmentation conditions are suitable for laser treatment.
Skin Brightness & Tone
Superficial fractional renewal can support improvements in the appearance of dullness, uneven tone and overall skin quality.
Acne Scarring
1550nm Erbium Glass is particularly relevant to selected atrophic acne scars, where dermal remodelling may help improve their visible appearance.
Response varies according to scar type and depth.
Texture & Visible Pores
The two wavelengths offer complementary treatment options for uneven texture and visible skin-quality concerns.
Fine Lines & Skin Ageing
Deeper non-ablative fractional treatment can support dermal remodelling and improvements in selected fine lines and textural changes.
Selected Superficial Scars
1550nm fractional treatment has also been investigated for surgical and traumatic scars, where treatment planning depends on scar characteristics and patient suitability.
Thulium technology is also being explored within specialist scalp and hair rejuvenation protocols. However, this is a separate clinical application with its own evidence and treatment considerations.
We cover that subject in our Thulium Laser & PRP Hair Rejuvenation Guide .
Patient assessment and recovery
What Should Clinics Know About Downtime and Skin Type?
Non-ablative fractional lasers generally have a more manageable recovery profile than intensive ablative resurfacing, but they should not be described as universally having no downtime.
Depending on the wavelength and treatment intensity, patients may experience temporary redness, swelling, warmth, dryness, roughness or flaking.
Skin phototype and pigmentation history are particularly important considerations. Patients with darker skin tones may face an increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following thermal treatments.
Melasma also requires particular caution because inflammation and inappropriate treatment parameters can worsen the condition.
These risks do not automatically exclude every patient with darker skin from treatment. They highlight the importance of selecting patients carefully and adjusting treatment plans according to individual risk.
A Lower-Downtime Treatment Is Not a No-Risk Treatment
Treatment parameters, patient assessment, sun protection, cooling and aftercare all influence the treatment experience.
Expected recovery and possible adverse effects should be discussed clearly before treatment begins.
For a closer look at the patient experience, read our Thulium Laser Treatment Guide .
Understanding treatment depth
How Does Dual-Wavelength Thulium Compare With CO₂?
Although both are fractional laser technologies, non-ablative Thulium and Erbium Glass are different from 10,600nm ablative CO₂.
CO₂ fractional laser can remove microscopic columns of tissue and is particularly valuable for deeper ablative resurfacing, selected scars, more pronounced wrinkles and significant textural change.
The more intensive tissue interaction generally means greater visible recovery and aftercare requirements.
Thulium and Erbium Glass offer different non-ablative fractional approaches, often with a more manageable recovery profile.
Neither technology is universally better. The appropriate choice depends on the skin concern, patient suitability, treatment intensity and recovery expectations.
Clinical research and published evidence
What Does the Scientific Research Tell Us?
The combination of 1550nm Erbium Glass and 1927nm Thulium is supported by a body of published clinical literature.
One of the best-known examples of this technology is the Fraxel Dual laser system, which uses 1550nm and 1927nm wavelengths for different fractional treatment applications.
Two published scientific papers are particularly useful for understanding the clinical evidence.
Dermatologic Surgery · 2022
Best Practices for 1550nm and 1927nm Fractional Lasers
A paper by Friedman and colleagues brought together recommendations from eight experienced dermatologists using the Fraxel Dual system.
The authors discussed treatment applications, settings and clinical considerations for both wavelengths individually and in combination.
The paper also explained their complementary roles: 1550nm for deeper dermal remodelling and 1927nm for more superficial pigmentation-related concerns.
Lasers in Surgery and Medicine · 2026
Dual-Wavelength Laser Treatment in Skin of Colour
A February 2026 review by Goldman and colleagues examined 15 clinical studies involving patients with Fitzpatrick skin types III–VI.
The authors reported improvements in selected scarring, pigmentation and photoageing concerns.
The review also highlighted post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risks, the importance of treatment settings and the need for further research, particularly in darker skin types.
Explore the 2026 Research in More Detail
We have published a separate Journal article examining the findings of the 2026 scientific review, including the evidence for different skin phototypes and the risk of PIH.
Read Our Clinical Evidence Review: Thulium & Erbium Lasers in Skin of Colour →
These publications provide valuable evidence about the clinical applications of the two wavelengths.
However, the studies were not conducted using Pure Tone's Thulium Laser Pro Dual™.
Published findings involving another laser platform should not be interpreted as device-specific clinical results for our machine.
The research helps explain why these wavelengths are used in aesthetic and dermatological practice. Individual device performance, treatment parameters and safety requirements must still be considered separately.
Pure Tone professional laser technology
Thulium Laser Pro Dual™
Two complementary fractional wavelengths within one professional skin-rejuvenation platform.
Pure Tone's Thulium Laser Pro Dual™ brings together 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass.
This allows clinics to offer treatment pathways for superficial skin quality and pigmentation concerns, alongside deeper non-ablative fractional applications such as selected acne scars, fine lines and texture.
For clinics considering their first fractional laser platform, it offers a wider range of potential applications than a single-wavelength Thulium system.
For clinics already offering other laser technologies, the decision is about whether the two wavelengths add useful treatment options for their existing patients.
Technology at a Glance
- Wavelengths: 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass
- Laser power: 15W Thulium and 15W Erbium Glass
- Maximum pulse energy: Thulium up to 100mJ; Erbium Glass up to 150mJ
- Technology: Fractional fibre laser system using microthermal treatment zones
- Running costs: No routine disposable consumables for standard treatments
The specifications above describe the Pure Tone Thulium Laser Pro Dual platform. Practitioners should refer to the device's supplied documentation and machine-specific protocols for operational settings.
Technology · Training · Support
Specialist Laser Training, Delivered at Your Clinic
Advanced laser technology requires more than a basic demonstration of how to operate the machine. We believe proper training should help practitioners understand both the equipment and the science behind the treatments they deliver.
We Travel to Your Clinic
Practical machine training can be delivered at your own clinic, so your team learns using the equipment in the environment where treatments will take place.
This allows training to be relevant to your treatment rooms, equipment setup and daily clinical workflow.
Laser Science & Treatment Planning
Our training approach places importance on understanding laser-tissue interaction, wavelength selection, treatment parameters, patient assessment and safe practice.
These are essential considerations when introducing more advanced fractional laser technology.
Training Appropriate to Your Experience
Clinics differ considerably in practitioner experience, clinical background and existing laser knowledge.
We take those differences into account when discussing training requirements, whether the system is being introduced by an experienced aesthetic practitioner or a medical-led clinic.
Support Beyond Installation
Training is only one part of introducing a new treatment successfully.
Pure Tone also provides ongoing clinical and technical support, helping clinics obtain guidance as they build experience with the equipment.
Supporting your investment
More Than Just Supplying the Machine
A professional laser is a significant investment. Alongside the technology, clinics need suitable training, reliable support and a clear plan for introducing treatments.
On-Site Training
We travel to your clinic to deliver practical machine training, allowing your team to learn on-site.
Personal Delivery & Installation
Your machine is personally delivered and installed by our team rather than simply being sent by courier.
Ongoing Clinical & Technical Support
Continued assistance is available after installation and training, helping your clinic introduce the treatment with confidence.
Flexible Finance
Finance options are available from as little as £23 per day, subject to the applicable finance terms and eligibility.
Concierge Patient Launch Programme
Our patient acquisition programme is designed to help qualifying clinics generate up to 20 verified appointments within the first 60 days.
Limited Local Clinic Availability
We work with a limited number of clinics within individual areas to support local market positioning and treatment exclusivity.
These services are an important part of how we support clinics investing in professional aesthetics technology.
Our aim is to help you introduce the equipment properly, understand its treatment potential and build patient interest from the outset.
Choosing your platform
Where Thulium Laser Pro Dual™ Fits Within Our Range
The right platform depends on your clinic's treatment objectives, available space and the range of services you want to offer.
Thulium Laser Pro Mini™
Our compact 1927nm Thulium platform for clinics prioritising space-efficient fractional skin renewal, tone and pigmentation treatments.
Thulium Laser Pro™
A floor-standing 1927nm Thulium platform for clinics focusing on professional fractional skin renewal and related treatment applications.
Thulium Laser Pro Dual™
Combines 1927nm Thulium with 1550nm Erbium Glass for clinics seeking both superficial fractional renewal and deeper non-ablative treatment options.
Compare Professional Laser Technology
Still deciding between different laser systems? Our buying guide explains the considerations when comparing professional equipment.
Dual-wavelength laser technology
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dual-wavelength Thulium and Erbium Glass laser?
It is a fractional laser platform combining 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass. The wavelengths offer different treatment depths and complementary skin-rejuvenation applications.
What is the difference between 1927nm Thulium and 1550nm Erbium Glass?
1927nm Thulium is more surface-focused and is commonly associated with pigmentation, tone and superficial renewal. 1550nm Erbium Glass works deeper within the dermis and is particularly relevant to texture, fine lines, selected scars and collagen remodelling.
Can both wavelengths be used during the same treatment?
Combined-wavelength treatment approaches have been described in published clinical literature. Whether both wavelengths are appropriate in a particular session depends on the laser platform, approved protocols, practitioner training and individual patient assessment.
Can dual-wavelength laser treatment improve acne scars?
1550nm Erbium Glass has an established clinical research background in selected acne scarring. Response depends on scar type and depth, treatment parameters and patient suitability.
Can Thulium laser be used for pigmentation?
1927nm Thulium is particularly relevant to selected pigmentation and uneven tone. However, not all pigmentary conditions are suitable, and conditions such as melasma need particular caution.
Is dual-wavelength laser treatment suitable for darker skin?
Published studies support selected applications in skin of colour, particularly Fitzpatrick types III–IV. However, pigmentation complications remain possible and evidence is more limited for types V–VI. Appropriate assessment and settings are essential.
What downtime should patients expect?
Recovery depends on the wavelength, settings, treatment area and individual skin response. Temporary redness, swelling, warmth, dryness and flaking may occur. Non-ablative fractional treatment generally has less recovery than intensive ablative resurfacing, but downtime cannot be guaranteed.
Is Thulium Laser Pro Dual™ the same as Fraxel Dual?
No. They are different laser platforms. Fraxel Dual is a well-known clinical example using the 1550nm and 1927nm wavelength combination. Published results from Fraxel should not automatically be attributed to Thulium Laser Pro Dual™.
Does Pure Tone provide laser training at our clinic?
Yes. Pure Tone offers practical equipment training delivered at the customer's own clinic. We travel to you, allowing training to take place with your machine in your own treatment environment. Training requirements can be discussed according to your team's experience and clinical background.
Does Pure Tone offer ongoing support after installation?
Yes. Pure Tone provides ongoing clinical and technical support, alongside practical equipment training, personal machine delivery and installation.
What finance and patient launch support are available?
Flexible finance is available from as little as £23 per day, subject to terms and eligibility. Our Concierge Patient Launch Programme is designed to help qualifying clinics generate up to 20 verified appointments within the first 60 days.
From the Pure Tone Journal
Two Wavelengths. More Treatment Options.
The strength of dual-wavelength fractional technology is that it allows practitioners to address different skin concerns at different depths.
1927nm Thulium has a valuable role in superficial skin renewal, tone and pigmentation.
1550nm Erbium Glass adds deeper non-ablative treatment for selected scarring, texture, fine lines and collagen remodelling.
Together, they give clinics additional flexibility when building professional skin-rejuvenation treatment plans.
The technology is only one part of the decision. The right training, treatment planning and ongoing support are equally important.
Technology · Training · Support
Explore Thulium Laser Pro Dual™ for Your Clinic
Discover the dual-wavelength fractional laser platform, with practical training available at your clinic, personal installation, ongoing clinical and technical support, flexible finance and our Concierge Patient Launch Programme.
Speak to our team about your treatment objectives, existing equipment and local availability.