Skin rejuvenation and pigment removal with Pico Laser.
When it comes to non-surgical and minimally invasive skin rejuvenation, there are a wide variety of options that could make your decision feel overwhelming. Skin care technologies have evolved rapidly, as new innovations have made the field of aesthetic medicine accessible to more people than ever before.
Laser technology is one such invention that has proven highly effective in improving common skin concerns. The energy these lasers generate allows for the rapid, non-invasive removal of discoloration, scarring, and blemishes on the skin. It works like a real-life airbrush, smoothing out and revitalizing skin almost instantly. But if you’ve done any research into laser skin treatments, you know there are a lot of choices available. How can you decide what’s best for your unique needs?
Pico Laser –
The PicoSure laser stands out among the rest as being one of the safest and most state-of-the-art laser technologies available today. Developed by a company called Cynosure, which has pioneered a broad array of light-based aesthetic treatments, PicoSure represents the cutting edge of what is possible in laser skin rejuvenation.
What makes PicoSure so effective? It uses what is known as short-pulse lasers that flash in trillionths of a second, also known as picoseconds. These rapid flashes deliver small bursts of energy deep within the skin to eliminate discoloration and other signs of aging, with minimal heat required. The result is a balanced, healthy appearance with almost no recovery time needed.
Picosure is the world’s first. Industry’s finest. Light years ahead.
PicoSure laser treats at three wavelengths: 532nm, 755nm, and 1064 nm, making it ideal for treatment of pigmentary conditions. With the addition of the Focus™ Lens Array, you’ll be able to treat stubborn skin conditions in addition to removing tattoos.
The PicoSure laser, made by Cynosure, is another popular picosecond laser system used for tattoo removal, pigmentation, and skin revitalization. It differs from PicoWay in terms of available wavelengths and pulse duration.
PicoSure Wavelengths:
- 755 nm (alexandrite)
- Primary wavelength of the original PicoSure
- Targets: Black, blue, green tattoo ink; pigmented lesions
- Chromophore: Melanin, tattoo pigment
- Great for skin rejuvenation (aka “PicoSure Focus” treatments)
- 532 nm (with the Boost™ or multi-wavelength system add-on)
- Targets: Red, orange, yellow tattoo inks
- Chromophore: Oxyhemoglobin, melanin
- 1064 nm (with the newer PicoSure Pro system)
- Targets: Darker ink colors, deeper pigment
- Better suited for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Key Differences from PicoWay:
- PicoSure’s primary wavelength is 755 nm, whereas PicoWay’s base is 1064 nm.
- PicoSure has a slightly longer pulse duration (~550–750 ps), whereas PicoWay has shorter pulses (~300–450 ps), meaning PicoWay may be slightly more efficient at shattering smaller pigment particles.
The PicoWay laser system, manufactured by Candela, is a versatile picosecond laser used for tattoo removal, pigmentation, acne scars, and skin rejuvenation. It offers multiple wavelengths, each targeting specific chromophores (like melanin or ink colors) and depths of the skin.
PicoWay Wavelengths:
- 532 nm (green)
- Targets: Red, orange, and yellow tattoo ink; superficial pigmentation
- Chromophore: Melanin, oxyhemoglobin
- 785 nm (red)
- Targets: Green and blue tattoo ink (traditionally hard to remove)
- Chromophore: Tattoo pigment
- 1064 nm (near-infrared)
- Targets: Dark inks like black and dark blue; deeper dermal pigmentation
- Chromophore: Melanin, tattoo pigment
- Also used for overall skin rejuvenation and acne scars
These wavelengths are delivered in ultrashort picosecond pulses (a trillionth of a second), which shatter pigment without excessive heat—minimizing thermal damage and improving safety and recovery time.
Let me know if you want wavelength-based treatment recommendations or how they compare with other systems like Enlighten or Discovery Pico.
Groundbreaking innovation. Unique technology.
Creating an intense photothermal impact in trillionths of a second, Pico Laser advanced technology spares the skin high thermal damage and targets the chromophore for better clearance in fewer treatments.
- Optimally targets melanin to treat a range of pigmentary conditions
- Incurs minimal thermal damage due to picosecond pulse duration
- Customizable treatments with 2-6mm, 8mm, and 10mm spot sizes
- Proven clinical validation, with 26 publications and 59 abstracts to date
Pico Laser makes tattoo removal even easier. The 755nm wavelength is able to target black, blue, and green tattoo inks, while the optional 532nm wavelength offers effective treatment of “sunset colors”—red, yellow and orange—which are typically hard to correct. You’ll also be able to:
- Tailor treatments using variable spot sizes
- Use boost mode to better treat recalcitrant tattoos with shortened pulse width
- Treat black ink in darker skin type patients using the 1064nm delivery
Is topical anesthetic needed before the picosure treatment?
Topical anesthetic may be administered to increase patient comfort; although this is not routinely needed.
What is the downtime with pico laser treatment ?
There is no downtime with Pico laser facials. Patients may experience erythema that typically resolves within a few hours, but in some cases, may linger up to 24 hours. Since each patient is unique, we highly recommend following the outlined clinical guidelines to help optimize safety and efficacy before treatment.
How many treatments do will I need for my Pico laser treatments?
Most unwanted pigment will significantly lighten or clear in 2-3 sessions but typically 3-5 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart may be needed.
Who is a candidate for Pico laser rejuvenation?
Pico laser technology is capable of addressing a range of issues; patients experiencing any of the following could be candidates for Pico laser:
- Wrinkles and age lines
- Pockmarks
- Sunspots
- Discolored or uneven skin pigmentation
- Acne scars and blemishes
Pico laser is also effective for tattoo removal. While other aesthetic products and lasers can treat similar conditions, Pico laser helps patients of all skin tones achieve ideal results without the pain, redness, and downtime.
How does it work?
The Pico laser sends ultra short pulses of light energy deep into the skin, where it can break up areas of dark or discolored pigmentation. These ultra-short pulses penetrate damaged layers of skin cells and create smooth and healthy skin. The laser also produces mechanical vibration and requires less photothermal energy thereby reducing the risk of burning or damaging the skin tissues at and around the treatment areas.
Pico laser promotes healing as a part of the procedure itself. Pico laser produces pressure waves that activate your skin cells’ natural healing mechanisms, promoting the production of new collagen and elastin and kickstarting a process of renewal by removing aging layers of skin. In this way, once unwanted pigmentation has been removed, the skin tissue is revitalized from within.
Pico laser generates pressure waves that stimulate skin cells to produce new collagen and elastin, renewing the skin by removing aging layers.
Why Choose Pico laser?
PicoSure and Pico Way are examples of the more commonly used advanced laser skin treatment for removing common skin imperfections. Pico Laser can be done for skin resurfacing on the face, neck, chest, legs, arms, and hands. The advantages of this procedure include:
- Safe and highly effective for all skin types, including darker skin tones
- Minimal discomfort and pain
- Little to no side effects and downtime
- Requires fewer treatments than other methods of laser resurfacing
- Removes skin imperfections with no damage to surrounding skin
Results and Recovery
Pico laser skin revitalization is relatively painless. Many patients compare the sensation of the laser pulses to the snap of a thin rubber band.
Pico laser rejuvenation has a rapid recovery time due to the laser’s gentle, low-heat energy. This laser skin revitalization has few side effects. Most patients experience mild redness and minor swelling for no more than a day after the procedure. Overall, this technology offers a quick, low-risk, pain-free way to revive the face’s bright, youthful appearance.
Most people can typically resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. Depending on your concerns and treatment goals, Dr. Schmidt may recommend scheduling more than one session with the Pico laser.
Pico Laser FAQs
If you’re considering laser skin resurfacing and pigmentation, you may still have some lingering concerns. To help you learn more about this treatment, contact aesthetics and medical lasers of Colorado at 720 818 0533.
What makes Pico laser different from other laser treatments?
Pico laser is a versatile laser technology that delivers energy in pulses of trillionths of a second to target and eliminate pigment and stimulate healing, all without damaging the surrounding skin. Its uses include wrinkle removal, improving the look of hyperpigmentation and scars, and tattoo removal.
Why should I choose Pico Laser?
If you are looking to achieve a more youthful appearance, but would like to avoid a procedure associated with significant downtime and side effects, the Pico laser is for you. Additionally, if your sun damage, freckles, pockmarks, or acne scars bother you, it’s time to consider treating these trouble spots quickly and painlessly.
What causes unwanted pigment?
Our skin color comes from melanin. Sunspots, age spots, moles, and freckles are darker than the surrounding skin because they have concentrated melanin in specific areas. Most of these issues result from sun exposure or hormonal changes, while some patients are born with them.
What types of pigmented areas can Pico Laser remove?
PicoSure can remove a variety of unwanted pigment, including age spots, freckles, and sun damage. During your consultation, Dr. Kafuuma will evaluate you and determine the best way to help you achieve a more regular, even skin tone.
How many treatments do I need?
Depending on how large and dark your benign pigmented marks are, you may require more than one treatment session. During your consultation, Dr. Kafuuma will discuss treatment expectations with you.
What does the treatment feel like?
Though everyone’s pain tolerance differs, most patients find the procedure comfortable and require no numbing cream or topical anesthesia. Pico Laser delivers energy in ultra-short bursts, and patients often compare the feeling of the laser pulse to a light snap from a rubber band.
What type of post-treatment care is necessary?
After your Pico laser procedure, the treated area may be tender and red. Keep the treatment area clean and to avoid any irritation, wear sunscreen of at least SPF 50 and avoid direct sun -exposure.
Ready to schedule a Consultation
Are you wondering if taking advantage of this laser technology is the right answer for your skin woes? Contact us today to learn more.
Our priority at aesthetics and medical laser of Colorado is to provide personalized and effective skin treatments.
“Erase Pigment, Refresh Your Look – Pico Laser Perfection”
At Aesthetics and Medical Lasers of Colorado, we understand how overwhelming it can be to choose the right non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatment. With so many advanced options available today, it’s important to find one that delivers real results with minimal downtime.
That’s where Pico Laser technology comes in—an innovative, non-invasive solution for revitalizing skin and removing unwanted pigmentation. Whether you’re looking to fade sun damage, smooth acne scars, or simply achieve a more radiant complexion, PicoSure offers one of the most advanced and effective solutions on the market.
What is Pico Laser?
Pico laser is a revolutionary picosecond laser system that delivers ultra-short pulses of energy—measured in trillionths of a second—to target skin imperfections at the cellular level. Unlike traditional nanosecond (Q-switched) lasers that rely solely on photothermal activity , Pico laser ultra-fast pulses create a pressure wave that breaks apart pigment and stimulates collagen production, all while minimizing heat damage to surrounding tissue.
This unique mechanism leads to:
- Faster results
- Fewer treatment sessions
- Little to no downtime
- Safe treatments for all skin types, including darker tones
Why Choose Pico Laser?
Pico laser treatments offer a broad range of benefits for those seeking to improve their skin without invasive procedures:
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- Fades acne scars and blemishes
- Treats uneven skin tone and discoloration
- Targets sunspots, age spots, and freckles
- Removes tattoos (including stubborn colors)
- Improves overall skin texture and radiance
Whether you’re dealing with pigmentation, signs of aging, or previous ink you’d like to erase, PicoSure offers a safe and powerful option—backed by clinical research and proven results.
How Does Pico Laser Work?
Pico laser delivers energy deep into the skin in picosecond bursts, creating a powerful photomechanical effect that:
- Breaks down pigment into tiny particles for natural removal by the body
- Triggers the skin’s natural healing process
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Renews and revitalizes the skin from within
This means clearer, smoother, more youthful-looking skin—without the heat, pain, or long recovery time associated with other lasers.
Wavelengths & Precision Technology
PicoSure laser uses three wavelengths for maximum versatility:
- 755 nm: Ideal for skin rejuvenation and treating pigmented lesions (also targets black, blue, and green tattoo ink)
- 532 nm: Targets red, orange, and yellow ink; also effective for surface pigmentation
- 1064 nm (Pro version): Best for darker skin types and deeper pigment concerns
Spot sizes can be customized (2–10mm), allowing the operator to precisely tailor each treatment to each client’s unique skin concerns.
What to Expect During Treatment
Is the pico laser treatment painful?
Most patients compare the sensation to a quick snap of a rubber band. Topical numbing cream is available but often not needed.
What is the downtime after a pico laser treatment?
There’s little to no downtime. You might experience mild redness or sensitivity for a few hours to 24 hours, but you can typically resume normal activities the same day.
How many pico laser treatments will I need?
Most patients see dramatic improvements in 2–3 sessions, but 3–5 treatments spaced 2–4 weeks apart may be recommended depending on your skin condition and goals.
What is the pico laser post treatment aftercare?
After your session, we recommend:
- Keeping the treated area clean
- Using SPF 50+ sunscreen daily
- Avoiding direct sun exposure
Who Is a Good Candidate for a pico laser treatment?
You may benefit from Pico laser if you struggle with:
- Wrinkles or fine lines
- Acne scars or pockmarks
- Uneven skin tone or melasma
- Sun damage or hyperpigmentation
- Unwanted tattoos
- Dull, aging skin
Because it’s safe for all skin tones, Pico laser is an excellent option for individuals seeking noticeable improvement without the downtime or risks of more aggressive procedures.
PicoSure vs. Other Picosecond Lasers
While other systems like PicoWay offer picosecond technology, PicoSure stands out for its 755 nm wavelength as its primary tool for treating tattoos, melanin rich pigment and skin rejuvenation.
Real Results. No Compromise.
At Aesthetics and Medical Lasers of Colorado, our priority is personalized, effective, and safe care. Under the guidance of Dr. Roland Kafuuma, MD, a Certified Laser Specialist and Internal Medicine physician with over 15 years of experience, you can feel confident that your treatment is in expert hands.
Our Pico Laser treatments are available at both our Longmont and Ft. Collins locations.
Ready to Reveal Clearer, Brighter Skin?
Book your consultation today with Aesthetics and Medical Lasers of Colorado to see if Pico Laser is right for you. Let us help you say goodbye to pigmentation, acne scars, or unwanted ink—and hello to glowing, refreshed skin.
📍 Longmont: 1350 Tulip Street, Suite 2
📍 Ft. Collins: 2801 Remington Street, Suite 2
📞 Call: 720-818-0
🌐 Visit: aestheticsandmedicallasers.com