The pursuit of flawless skin is a universal desire, yet achieving it can be a challenge. Sun damage, acne scars, and unwanted tattoos can all contribute to uneven texture and discoloration.
Traditional laser treatments have offered solutions, but limitations exist, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones or a preference for minimal downtime.
Fortunately, advancements in aesthetic technology have led to the development of pico laser treatment, a revolutionary approach to achieving clearer, brighter skin.
What is Pico Laser Treatment?
Pico laser treatment is a non-ablative and non-surgical treatment modality that targets areas of common aesthetic concerns such as pigmentation or scar tissue, without damaging surrounding healthy skin.
Standing out as one of the most cutting-edge laser treatments available, this technology boasts several advantages, making it suitable for treatment on both the face and body (Zhou et al., 2023).
How Does Pico Laser Treatment Work?
Unlike conventional lasers that use heat, pico laser treatment delivers ultra-short pulses of energy in trillionths of a second (picoseconds) resulting in a mild, transient sensation likened to gentle elastic band snaps on the skin.
The underlying mechanism leverages ultrashort laser pulses to fragment targeted chromophores, stimulating collagen biosynthesis and ameliorating a variety of aesthetic concerns.
The body then naturally eliminates these microscopic fragments, leading to a gradual improvement in your complexion.
Types of Pico Laser Treatment?
There are two main types of Pico laser treatments:
1. Fotona StarWalker PQX
The StarWalker® PQX represents the newest advancement within the high-caliber StarWalker® laser platform, distinguishing itself through industry-leading peak power and energy delivery.
Combined with a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge attachments, the StarWalker® PQX offers unparalleled precision and speed in a variety of treatments.
The system's intuitive interface, pre-programmed treatment parameters, integrated treatment history, and patient database ensure a seamless user experience for both seasoned practitioners and those new to the platform.
It can be used to treat different skin concerns such as:
Tattoo removal
Scars
Skin rejuvenation
2. PicoSure treatments
The PicoSure Laser distinguishes itself through its multifunctional capabilities by using a specific wavelength (755 nm) to effectively address both tattoo removal and cutaneous rejuvenation.
Significantly, this technology achieves outcomes comparable to more aggressive laser procedures, yet minimises post-procedural downtime.
This can be used to treat a variety of concerns, including:
Sun damage (age spots,freckles)
Melasma
Acne scars
Tattoo removal
3. Fractional Pico treatments
Fractional Pico treatments use a laser that fractionates the skin, creating microscopic injuries that stimulate the body's natural healing process.
This can be used to treat a variety of concerns, including:
Acne scars
Wrinkles
Enlarged pores
Skin texture
What are the Benefits of Pico Laser Treatments?
Pico laser treatment boasts a range of benefits that can address various skin concerns. These benefits include:
Faster results Pico lasers deliver ultra-short bursts of energy, allowing for quicker results compared to some other laser treatments. This can be especially appealing for those seeking faster improvement in their skin's appearance.
Improved skin texture and skin tone Pico laser therapy effectively addresses surface irregularities, promoting a smoother texture and a more uniform skin tone. This comprehensive approach fosters a rejuvenated appearance with enhanced vibrancy. Pico laser treatments are also generally considered a good option for Asian skin with pigmentation issues (Wong, 2019).
Minimal downtime This means you can often resume your daily activities shortly after the session, with any temporary redness or swelling typically subsiding within a few days.
Non-invasive Pico Laser treatment offers a non-surgical approach, eliminating the need for incisions and minimising potential complications.
Reduced scar This treatment also effectively targets acne scars, surgical scars, and stretch marks, reaching the scarred tissue as it prompts the body to shed the damaged layers and regenerate smoother, healthier skin with improved tone. While the number of sessions varies depending on scar severity, Pico laser treatment offers a path towards a more even and blemish-free complexion.
Reduced pigmentation Pico lasers effectively address unwanted pigmentation caused by sun damage, age spots, and melasma by breaking down excess melanin deposits into minute particles, creating a more even skin tone.
Open to exploring additional ways to revitalise your skin? This article explores Fotona laser treatments, some of which could be ideal companions to Pico laser treatment.
What Can Pico Laser Treat?
To achieve the desired outcome, understanding the areas of pico laser treatment is crucial to avoid any complications.
At Dream Clinic, our team of aesthetic doctors will ultimately determine the most suitable product and target areas for your individual needs.
Here are some common pico lasers application areas that we treat:
1. Acne Scars
Acne scars can be remarkably persistent, enduring for years and often proving resistant to established treatment methods.
Pico laser treatments offer a novel approach to address this challenge by creating controlled thermal injury within the targeted area. This triggers the body's inherent healing cascade, stimulating collagen production to repair and remodel the damaged tissue.
2. Birthmarks and Freckles
Pico lasers such as Fotona StarWalker PQX with a blazing speed of 300 picoseconds (ps) and Picosure with the speed of 450ps, can shatter melanin in freckles, allowing the body to remove them for a gradual lightening effect. This treatment offers minimal downtime and is suitable for most skin types.
3. Fine Lines
Photo by Freepik
By promoting collagen renewal with its precise laser technology, Pico treatments diminish the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, fostering a rejuvenated appearance.
4. Melasma and Pigmentations
Photo by Freepik
Pico laser therapy for melasma and pigmentations utilises ultrashort laser pulses to fragment melanin aggregates within the skin. This fragmentation facilitates the body's natural clearance mechanisms, leading to a gradual lightening of the hyperpigmented patches.
5. Tattoo Removal
The pico laser's versatility extends to addressing tattoo removal in different areas of the body. Its technological specifications facilitate a more efficient photomechanical fragmentation of tattoo pigments, potentially translating to a reduced number of treatment sessions to achieve desired results.
It is paramount to emphasise, however, that complete clearance of all ink colours remains elusive with any laser tattoo removal modality. Black and dark green inks demonstrate the greatest susceptibility to laser treatment, followed closely by dark green. Conversely, yellow, purple, and fluorescent pigments present a more significant challenge.
Open to exploring additional ways to revitalise your skin? This article explores Fotona laser treatments, some of which could be ideal companions to Pico laser treatment.
What is the Procedure for Pico Laser Treatment?
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A Pico laser treatment procedure typically involves several steps:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Facial Analysis
Before undergoing any pico laser treatment, you'll have a consultation with a certified aesthetic doctor. During this consultation, a comprehensive discussion will be held regarding your specific skin concerns, medical history, and desired aesthetic outcomes.
The aesthetic doctor will then perform a thorough skin assessment to see if this treatment is suitable for you. Following this evaluation, a personalised treatment plan will be tailored to address your unique needs and optimise your results.
Step 2: Treatment Preparation
Prior to the pico laser procedure, the treatment area will undergo a meticulous cleansing process. You may need to shave the area of treatment beforehand to ensure optimal laser penetration. Additionally, topical anaesthesia may be applied to manage any potential discomfort, particularly for patients with sensitive skin or a lower pain tolerance.
ITo achieve the best results and minimise the risk of complications, it's important to avoid sun exposure for several weeks both before and after the treatment.
Step 3: Pico Laser Treatment
To ensure optimal patient safety during the pico laser procedure, a protective eyewear will be provided. These are mandatory to shield your eyes from the laser light and prevent any potential eye complications.
Your aesthetic doctor will then use a handheld Pico Laser device to deliver precisely calibrated energy pulses directly to the designated treatment area.
During the session, you may experience mild sensations of warmth or a tingling paresthesia as the laser interacts with your skin. Some patients describe it as feeling similar to rapid, minute pricking sensations. It is important to note that the level of discomfort is typically minimal, particularly when topical anaesthetic cream is employed beforehand.
The pico laser settings will also be calibrated during the process to effectively address your unique skin concerns. This process may involve adjustments to the energy level and the number of laser passes administered to the treatment area to achieve the desired results.
Step 4: Post Treatment Care
While you may experience some temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort, these effects typically subside within a few days.
To aid healing and minimise discomfort, a soothing cream may be applied. You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions on sun protection, sunscreen use, and proper moisturising.
Your treatment plan may involve multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart, depending on your specific skin concern to achieve the best possible outcome. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and potentially adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal results.
If you experience any unusual discomfort or side effects that persist beyond the expected timeframe, promptly contact our physicians for further evaluation.
What are the Side Effects of Pico Laser Treatment?
Pico laser treatment is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. However, some common and temporary side effects you may experience after the treatment include:
Crusting or flaking of skin
Redness and swelling
Scabbing (for treatment of acne scars)
Skin sensitivity (more sensitive to sunlight so, sun protection is necessary)
Tenderness and sensitivity
Who Can Get Pico Laser Treatment?
Pico laser treatments are a good option for a wider range of people compared to some other laser treatments. Here's a breakdown of who might be a good candidate:
People with skin concerns If you have concerns like sun damage (sunspots, uneven skin tone), acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines, or unwanted pigmentation, pico lasers could be a good option.
For any skin type Pico lasers are known for being safe for various skin types, including darker skin tones. However, a consultation is crucial to assess your individual suitability.
Any healthy individuals Generally healthy individuals with no major pre-existing conditions are good candidates. During the consultation, discuss your medical history to ensure Pico laser is right for you.
Restore Your Skin's Radiance with Dream Clinic
Pico laser treatment offers a compelling solution for a variety of skin concerns.
With its ability to target specific issues while minimising downtime, it's a powerful tool for achieving a clearer, more youthful complexion. Determining the right treatment is crucial in minimising any complications.
Dream Clinic prioritises your safety and satisfaction. Our board-certified experts leverage their extensive knowledge to deliver exceptional pico laser treatments, ensuring a natural-looking and rejuvenated you.
Ready to explore your options? Schedule a consultation with us today and discuss your aesthetic goals!
FAQ
Why are there so many types of pico laser treatments?
There are several reasons why there are so many types of pico laser treatments:
Wavelength differences Pico lasers utilise various wavelengths of light, each with its own absorption properties within the skin. For instance, StarWalker PQX uses 1064nm and 532nm wavelengths. Specific wavelengths might be more effective for certain skin issues.
Manufacturer Variations Different manufacturers develop picosecond laser technology with their own proprietary features or settings. These variations can influence the laser's pulse duration, energy output, and even the number of available wavelengths.
Treatment Customization Your aesthetic doctor may have access to multiple pico laser devices to offer a more customised approach to suit your needs. By selecting the most appropriate pico laser type and its settings, they can optimise the treatment for the desired outcome.
What kind of results can I realistically expect from pico laser treatment?
Pico laser treatment offers lasting improvements for certain concerns. Hyperpigmentation, scarring, and unwanted tattoos often show significant fading and may become virtually undetectable over time due to the treatment's impact. However, other concerns like fine lines and wrinkles may reappear as part of the natural ageing process.
How long will the results of pico laser treatment typically last?
The longevity of pico laser treatment results depends on the specific skin concerns addressed, but they generally last at least 6 months.
What is the cost of pico laser treatment in Malaysia?
The cost of Pico laser treatment in Malaysia can vary depending on several factors, including:
Practitioner expertise: Competency of doctors performing pico lasers is of utmost importance. Laser experience, particularly with pico lasers, is paramount. With a consistent and predictable laser like Fotona, a doctor's skill and past successes with similar treatments will largely determine your final outcome.
Location: Prices may differ between urban and rural areas. Generally, clinics in major cities like Kuala Lumpur or Penang might have slightly higher costs.
Clinic: The reputation and experience of the clinic can influence pricing.
Treatment area: The size of the area being treated will affect the cost. A larger area will typically require a higher price.
Number of sessions: Most patients require multiple sessions for optimal results, and the total cost will reflect the number of sessions needed.
Type of Pico laser: Different pico lasers might have varying price points depending on their specific technology and features.
However, to give you a general idea, here's a range for Pico laser treatment cost in Malaysia:
Estimated range: RM1,000 to RM5,000 per session (approximately USD $235 to USD $1,175)
References
1. Wong, T. H. S. (2019). Picosecond laser treatment for Asian skin pigments: a review. The Journal of Cosmetic Medicine, 3(2), 55-63. 10.25056/JCM.2019.3.2.55
2. Zhou, Y., Hamblin, M. R., & Wen, X. (2023). An update on fractional picosecond laser treatment: histology and clinical applications. Lasers in medical science, 38(1), 45. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-022-03704-y
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