Pico laser technology is a cutting-edge advancement in laser treatments, utilizing ultra-short picosecond pulses to target pigmentation, stimulate collagen, and revitalize skin with low downtime. Unlike traditional lasers, Pico lasers deliver energy in trillionths of a second, reducing heat damage to surrounding tissue, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking non-invasive, highly effective skin rejuvenation.
At KDAA, we use the Candela PicoWay system, one of the most advanced Pico laser platforms available, ensuring precise, safe, and effective results for a variety of skin concerns, including pigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, and tattoo removal.
What Can Pico Lasers Treat? Pico laser treatments are versatile and effective for multiple skin concerns, including:
Pigmentation Issues
Reduces sunspots, freckles, age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Tattoo Removal
Treats multi-coloured tattoos safely across all skin types
Skin Rejuvenation
Improves skin texture, tone and radiance
Acne Scars & General Scarring
Lifts or subcises scars and stimulates collagen and elastin remodelling to smooth scars
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Promotes collagen and elastin remodelling for firmer, more youthful skin
Enlarged Pores
Reduces pore size and refines skin texture
Stretch marks
Reduces the appearance of stretch marks
Pico laser treatments are also effective for treating Hori’s Naevus, Naevus of Ota, and certain birthmarks. PicoWay can provide a safe and efficient solution for reducing deep-seated pigmentation in these conditions and improve overall skin clarity.
How Does Pico Laser Work?
Pico lasers use high-energy pulses delivered in picoseconds to shatter pigment particles into microscopic fragments, allowing the body to naturally eliminate them. Additionally, these rapid pulses create a photoacoustic effect, stimulating collagen remodelling and elastin production, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
- Targets pigment without harming surrounding tissue
- Minimizes risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring
- Stimulates natural collagen and elastin production
- Suitable for all skin types, including darker skin tones
- Relatively fast, comfortable treatments with minimal downtime
What to Expect During a Pico Laser Treatment
1. Consultation & Skin Assessment
- Our dermatologists and expert team evaluate your skin concerns and determine if Pico laser treatment is right for you.
- A customized treatment plan is created based on your pigmentation, skin type, and rejuvenation goals.
2. Treatment Process
The treatment area is cleansed, and protective eyewear is provided.
- A topical anaesthetic may be applied for comfort.
- A cryocooler system to cool the skin is used during and immediately after treatment to enhance comfort and safety, minimising heat buildup.
- The Pico laser device delivers rapid energy pulses, targeting pigment, problem skin areas or scars with precision.
- Immediately after treatment, specialised medical grade skincare is applied to enhance healing, speed recovery, and optimize results. This includes hydrating serums, antioxidants, and pigment-regulating agents, which help improve pigment response, minimise inflammation, and reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- The session typically lasts 15-30 minutes, depending on the treatment area and skin concern.
- Most patients describe the sensation as a mild snapping or warming feeling, which is well-tolerated.
Downtime, Side Effects & Risks
- Low Downtime – Most patients can return to daily activities immediately.
- Redness & Swelling – Typically subsides within a few hours to a day.
- Darkening or Flaking of Pigmented Areas – Treated pigmentation naturally fades over several days.
- Transient Acne-Like Breakout – uncommonly patients may experience a mild, temporary acne-like breakout post-treatment, which typically resolves within days
- Rare Risks – Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation is minimised with professional care and sun protection.
Post-Treatment Care & Aftercare Instructions
- Sun Protection – Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to protect treated areas and prevent further pigmentation.
- Hydration & Skincare – Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to support healing.
- Avoid Exfoliants & Irritants – No retinoids, exfoliating agents, or harsh products for 48 hours.
- Multiple Sessions May Be Recommended – Treatment frequency depends on pigmentation severity and skin condition.
When Will I See Results?
- Immediate Brightening – Skin appears more radiant and even-toned shortly after treatment.
- Gradual Improvement – Pigment fades and collagen stimulation enhances skin smoothness and firmness over several weeks.
- Long-Lasting Effects – With proper skincare and maintenance treatments, results can be sustained long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many Pico laser sessions will I need?
Most patients need 2-5 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, depending on the condition being treated.
Is Pico laser painful?
The treatment is well-tolerated, often compared to a light rubber band snap, with minimal discomfort.
Can Pico lasers remove all tattoo colours?
Yes! The Candela PicoWay system is highly effective for removing black, red, blue, green, and multi-coloured tattoos. Darker ink colours such as black and dark blue respond the best, while lighter colours such as yellow and white may require additional treatments. The advanced dual-wavelength system and sapphire handpieces of the PicoWay laser allows for more precise targeting of stubborn tattoo pigments, enhancing removal efficiency across a range of colours.
Is Pico laser safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, Pico laser technology minimises heat damage, making it safe and effective for all skin types. Additionally, at KDAA, we tailor each treatment using adjustable laser wavelengths, energy levels, and treatment strategies to optimize results while minimizing risks such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). By using the appropriate settings and careful treatment planning, we ensure safety and efficacy for darker skin tones.
How does Pico laser compare to traditional lasers?
- Pico lasers deliver energy in ultra-short picosecond pulses, compared to traditional nanosecond lasers, making them more efficient at breaking down pigmentation and tattoo ink while minimising heat damage.
- Faster results with fewer sessions – Due to the high-speed energy delivery, Pico lasers clear pigmentation more effectively than traditional lasers, often requiring fewer treatments.
- Superior safety for darker skin tones – The reduced skin heating effect lowers the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), making Pico lasers safer and more effective for darker skin types.
- Enhanced collagen stimulation – Unlike traditional lasers that primarily target pigment, Pico lasers stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture, fine lines, and acne scars in addition to treating pigmentation.
- Less discomfort and downtime – With reduced heat diffusion, Pico lasers offer a more comfortable treatment experience with minimal redness and recovery time.
Book Your Pico Laser Consultation Today
If you’re looking for an advanced, non-invasive treatment for pigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, or tattoo removal, Pico laser therapy may be the perfect solution for you.
While these treatments offer benefits, a consultation at KDAA is essential for a personalised assessment, holistic approach, and discussion of suitability, potential risks including rare complications, and expected outcomes.
