Utilising the latest Pico-second technology, Picoway is regarded as one of the best lasers in treating skin pigmentation, tattoo removal and provides minimal downtime treatment of acne scarring, improvement of skin tone, fine wrinkling, pore size, skin rejuvenation and addresses post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Mild and early acne scars can also be treated with Picoway. Picoway is the preferred laser treatment for rejuvenating darker skin types. Picoway laser treatments can clear pigmentation up to 10 times faster than treatments without lasers.
Picoway is a type of laser that is defined by its pulse duration. They are a type of laser used by dermatologists that provide short bursts of energy to target pigment without transferring heat to the skin. At Scars and Lasers, we have the Picoway by Candela. This laser offers much more power than its predecessor and includes many more usable wavelengths, including the 532, 730, 785, and 1064 nm, as well as fusion modes. With this system, we can effectively treat a wide range of skin conditions, such as pigmentation, fine lines, enlarged pores, age spots, birthmarks, and mild to early acne scarring. Picoway is safe for all skin types and can be used on both the face and body with minimal downtime.
Picoway is versatile and can effectively treat a variety of skin conditions. However, they excel in treating the following:
The recovery time following a Picoway treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the specific condition being treated and the laser settings utilised during the procedure. When treating birthmarks or acne scars, patients can typically expect a recovery time ranging from 3 to 6 days.
During a clinical examination, we will assess your specific case and provide you with an accurate estimate of the healing time frame that you can expect following a Picoway treatment.
Pain varies depending on the condition being treated. We use topical anaesthetic cream for all picosecond patients.
After a picosecond laser treatment, it's best to avoid makeup for at least 48 hours. Some redness may be present on the treated area for 3 to 24 hours, and there may be temporary swelling and bruising depending on the treatment settings. You dermatologist / laser nurse will provide you with instructions on aftercare and any necessary downtime prior to the laser treatment.
While expected recovery outcomes are predictable and often necessary, there is a marked difference between those and unwanted side effects. For instance, broken skin and crusting may be an expected outcome when treating certain scars and birthmarks, but it would be considered a side effect when using Picoway for skin rejuvenation.
Some unwanted side effects of Picoway lasers include:
Picoway is effective in treating pigmentation, including pigmented acne scars, specifically grade 1 scars. If acne scars are red, a condition called post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), vascular lasers like Excel V, or V BEAM Perfecta, Laser Genesis, or BBL Hero, are the best options for treatment.
However, if the acne scars are brown, a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, Picoway is appropriate for treatment.
In summary:
To determine if Picoway is appropriate for your specific acne scar type, please book an appointment with our clinical team at Scars and Lasers.
The duration it takes for Picosecond lasers to work varies depending on the targeted area. Age spots and sunspots clear the quickest, usually within a few days to a week.
Below is an approximate timeline:
Pigmentation: Age spots typically require 1-2 sessions. You may begin to see a difference within 3-8 days, depending on the lesion and treatment settings.
Acne scars: Picosecond is useful for improving early or mild acne scars (less than 4 to 6 months old). The number of sessions required will depend on the extent of acne scars. Multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results.
Fine lines/Wrinkles/Skin rejuvenation: 1-3 sessions are required for best results, and it takes 3-8 weeks to see results. Best results are seen when collagen stimulation is maximal between week 12 and 16.
Enlarged pores: Most cases require 2-4 sessions, and results can be seen at 4 weeks. Maximal results are seen at 16 weeks.
Birthmarks: Picoway is marginally better than nanosecond lasers. CALM birthmarks, late onset Hori's, Ota, and other dermal melanosis can improve. However, this still requires between 2-12 sessions depending on the pathology.
Laser treatment is a significant investment in terms of time, effort, and finances. To prepare for Picoway laser treatment, you should keep the following points in mind:
For all appointment enquiries, medical referrals and urgent enquiries please contact us at info@scarsandlasers.co.nz or (09) 524 5011.