Pico Spot

Pigmentation (spot) removal

About the device

Device

PicoWay, made by Syneron Candela

Type

Picosecond laser (picosecond KTP / Nd:YAG laser)

Pulse duration

The laser fires in picoseconds (trillionths of a second) — shorter than the nanoseconds (billionths of a second) of the conventional Q-switched lasers traditionally used for tattoo treatment. Because each pulse is so short, less heat is produced; the treatment aims to raise peak power while keeping pain and strain on the skin down.

Wavelengths

It has three wavelengths — 532 nm, 730 nm and 1064 nm — which are used according to the colour and depth of the pigment.

Approval

Japanese medical device approval number 23000BZX00270000. The device is approved in Japan and by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of deep and superficial pigmented lesions of the skin and for tattoo removal.

Treatment time and what to expect

• Treatment timeAbout 5–20 minutes (depending on the number of spots)
• AnaesthesiaUsually not needed (numbing cream is available on request)
• Make-upAllowed from the next day, avoiding the treated area (on the day, moisturise well and protect the area from UV)
• ShoweringAllowed the same day
• After treatmentThe area is red and stings a little straight afterwards. Within a few days it forms a scab, which falls off naturally after about 5–7 days
• Protective tapePlease keep the area covered with protective tape until the scab comes off on its own
• Next sessionLeave at least 2 months before treating the same area again

Aftercare

• Protect the area from UV (SPF50+ recommended)
• Do not pick off scabs
• Avoid skincare that involves a lot of rubbing for about a week
• Do not rub the treated area hard
• Avoid getting a suntan during the course of treatment
• On the day of treatment, avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and alcohol

Who cannot receive this treatment

We cannot treat you if any of the following apply

• Areas diagnosed as melasma (laser can make it worse, so we will suggest another treatment such as pico toning)
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have an infection, inflammation, herpes or a skin condition in the treatment area
• You tend to form keloids
• You are sensitive to light, or are taking a medicine that increases sensitivity to light
• You have epilepsy
• You have gold threads in the treatment area
• The treatment area is strongly suntanned or sunburnt

Depending on your health and any medicines you take, we may also ask you to postpone treatment for other reasons. The doctor decides whether the treatment is suitable for you at the consultation.

Side effects and risks

The main effects are redness, stinging, scabbing and temporary darkening of the skin. About 2–4 weeks after treatment the colour may come back (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation); this usually fades naturally over a few months, but occasionally lasts longer. Rarely, loss of pigment (white patches), blisters, burns or scarring may occur. Depending on the type and condition of the spot, it may not clear in one session, or the change you hoped for may not be achieved.

* This is private (self-funded) treatment, not covered by insurance. Results vary from person to person and are not guaranteed.
* If you notice any symptoms that concern you, please contact the clinic promptly.