Pico Laser: A Modern Treatment for Pigmentation
What Is Pico Laser?
Pico Laser, or Picosecond Laser, belongs to a group of ultra-short-pulse laser technologies. It releases high-energy laser pulses in extremely short durations measured in picoseconds, or trillionths of a second.
The energy targets unwanted pigment within the skin and breaks it into very small particles. The body then gradually clears these particles through its natural processes.
Pico Laser may be used to address:
๐ Uneven skin tone
๐ Dark spots
๐ Post-acne pigmentation
๐ Freckles
๐ Melasma in selected cases
๐ Certain birthmarks
๐ Tattoos
๐ Acne scars
๐ Enlarged pores
๐ Uneven skin texture
Some treatment modes also create controlled microscopic changes beneath the skin, helping stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity.
Results vary according to the condition being treated, the laser wavelength, treatment settings, skin type, and number of sessions.
Common Picosecond Laser Platforms
Different picosecond devices use different wavelengths, pulse durations, handpieces, and energy-delivery systems. The most suitable machine depends on the patient’s skin concern and the doctor’s assessment.
PicoSure
PicoSure was developed by Cynosure in the United States and was among the first commercially available picosecond laser systems.
It may be used for:
๐ Pigmentation concerns
๐ Freckles and sun spots
๐ Tattoo removal
๐ Post-acne pigmentation
๐ Skin texture improvement
Its specialised handpieces may also be used to stimulate collagen and improve the appearance of acne scars.
Discovery Pico
Discovery Pico is produced by Quanta System in Italy.
It uses short laser pulses to create a predominantly photoacoustic effect, breaking pigment and tattoo ink into smaller particles while limiting unnecessary heat exposure to surrounding tissue.
It may be suitable for:
๐ Tattoo removal
๐ Superficial and deeper pigmentation
๐ Acne marks
๐ Red or brown post-inflammatory marks
๐ Enlarged pores
๐ Certain types of scars
Enlighten
The Enlighten system is manufactured by Cutera in the United States.
It can deliver different pulse durations and wavelengths for the treatment of:
๐ Tattoos
๐ Pigmented lesions
๐ Dark spots
๐ Acne-related pigmentation
๐ Uneven skin texture
Certain treatment modes may also support collagen remodelling and skin rejuvenation.
PicoWay
PicoWay is produced by Candela in the United States.
It is designed to break pigment and tattoo ink into fine particles that can be gradually cleared by the body.
Depending on the handpiece and settings, it may be used for:
๐ Tattoos
๐ Pigmentation
๐ Acne scars
๐ Uneven skin texture
๐ Fine lines
๐ Enlarged pores
๐ Collagen stimulation
PicoPlus
PicoPlus is manufactured by Lutronic in South Korea and is commonly used in aesthetic clinics.
Its short-pulse technology may help target pigment while reducing prolonged heat accumulation in the surrounding skin.
It may be used for:
๐ Dark spots
๐ Post-acne marks
๐ Freckles
๐ Tattoos
๐ Uneven pigmentation
๐ Selected scars and textural concerns
The availability, registration status, and approved indications of each device may differ. Treatment should be performed using a legally registered machine by a qualified medical professional.
Who May Benefit from Pico Laser?
Pico Laser may be considered for people who:
๐ Have dark spots or pigmentation after acne
๐ Have uneven skin tone
๐ Want to improve the appearance of acne scars
๐ Have dull or tired-looking skin
๐ Have freckles, sun spots, or deeper pigmentation
๐ Want to remove or fade a tattoo
๐ Have selected red or dark birthmarks
๐ Have melasma or pigment irregularities that have been medically assessed
๐ Have enlarged pores or uneven skin texture
Pico Laser is not automatically suitable for every form of pigmentation. Conditions such as melasma may worsen if the treatment is too aggressive or inappropriate for the patient’s skin type. A medical assessment is therefore essential.
Preparing for Pico Laser Treatment
Before treatment, patients should follow the clinic’s specific instructions.
General preparation may include:
๐ Informing the doctor about all medicines and supplements
๐ Avoiding medicines or supplements that increase bleeding only when advised by a doctor
๐ Temporarily stopping strong exfoliating products, acids, or retinoids as instructed
๐ Avoiding facial scrubs for approximately two to three days
๐ Avoiding strong sunlight and tanning before treatment
๐ Using a gentle moisturiser to support the skin barrier
๐ Applying sunscreen consistently
๐ Informing the doctor about previous reactions to lasers, active skin infections, or a history of abnormal scarring
Patients should not stop prescribed medication without consulting the prescribing doctor.
What Happens During Treatment?
Before treatment, the skin is cleansed and protective eyewear is provided.
A topical anaesthetic may be applied depending on:
๐ The treatment mode
๐ The area being treated
๐ The energy settings
๐ The patient’s sensitivity
During the procedure, patients may feel a mild snapping, tingling, warm, or prickling sensation.
Treatment time depends on the size of the area and the skin concern.
Possible Effects After Pico Laser
Temporary reactions may include:
๐ Redness
๐ Mild swelling
๐ Warmth or sensitivity
๐ Dryness
๐ Temporary darkening of pigmented areas
๐ Small crusts or scabs
๐ Pinpoint bleeding after more intensive scar treatments
These effects generally improve gradually, although recovery time varies according to the treatment settings and the patient’s skin.
Skin Care After Pico Laser
Aftercare should follow the doctor’s instructions because recommendations differ according to the device and treatment intensity.
During the First 24 Hours
๐ Avoid rubbing, scratching, or pressing the treated skin.
๐ Use only products recommended by the clinic.
๐ Avoid heat, strenuous exercise, saunas, and hot environments if advised.
๐ Keep the skin clean and protected.
Whether the face can be washed immediately or skincare can be applied depends on the treatment mode. Follow the clinic’s instructions rather than applying a universal 24-hour restriction.
After the Initial Recovery Period
๐ Cleanse the face with a gentle product.
๐ Apply a mild, fragrance-free moisturiser.
๐ Use sunscreen every day, including when spending most of the day indoors.
๐ Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
๐ Do not pick or scratch any crusts.
๐ Allow scabs to fall away naturally.
๐ Avoid scrubs, exfoliating acids, and irritating skincare until the skin has recovered.
Products containing AHA, BHA, retinoids, or strong vitamin C formulations may need to be avoided for approximately one week or for the period recommended by the doctor.
Make-up may need to be avoided temporarily, particularly after intensive treatment or while crusting is present.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Pico Laser Sessions Are Needed?
Some patients notice improved brightness or smoother-looking skin after the first session. However, more noticeable results usually require several treatments.
The number of sessions depends on:
๐ The type and depth of pigmentation
๐ The severity of acne scars
๐ The colour and depth of tattoo ink
๐ The patient’s skin type
๐ The laser settings used
๐ The response to previous sessions
People with deeper pigmentation, multiple skin concerns, or acne scars may require approximately five to six sessions or more.
Does Pico Laser Make the Skin Thinner?
When performed correctly, Pico Laser does not normally thin the skin.
The treatment targets pigment or creates controlled stimulation beneath the skin rather than repeatedly removing large amounts of the skin surface. Some modes are specifically designed to promote collagen remodelling.
However, excessive energy, overly frequent treatment, or unsuitable settings may irritate or damage the skin. Treatment should therefore be personalised and performed by an experienced doctor.
Is Pico Laser Painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as mild snapping, warmth, tingling, or slight irritation rather than severe pain.
A topical anaesthetic may be applied before treatment to improve comfort. The level of discomfort depends on the treatment area, laser mode, and energy used.
Choosing a Safe Pico Laser Treatment
Before undergoing treatment, patients should confirm that:
๐ The clinic is legally licensed.
๐ The procedure is performed or supervised by a qualified doctor.
๐ The laser device is appropriately registered and maintained.
๐ The treatment plan is suitable for their skin type and concern.
๐ Eye protection and infection-control procedures are used.
๐ The expected benefits, limitations, downtime, and possible side effects are clearly explained.
Pico Laser can improve pigmentation, acne marks, scars, tattoos, and skin texture when the correct device and settings are selected. A personalised assessment at Napassaree Clinic can help determine whether the treatment is appropriate and create a safe treatment plan based on the patient’s individual skin condition.
Reference:
Independent Writer
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