Are you tired of seeing acne scars, skin discoloration, or an old tattoo in the mirror each day? Pico laser treatments might just be right for you. This laser skin treatment makes it possible to remove many skin conditions that were once thought to be permanent.
If you’re interested in a non-invasive skin treatment, take a moment to check our guide about what Pico laser treatments are, how they work, and why they’re beneficial.
Table of Contents
What Are Pico Laser Treatments?
A Pico laser treatment refers to a non-invasive laser skin treatment that utilizes Pico lasers to remove unwanted pigmentation, scars, stretch marks, and even tattoos. The treatment can also reduce the size of enlarged pores as well as increase elastin and collagen production.
What Conditions Can Pico Laser Treatments Help?
A variety of skin issues can be addressed with Pico laser treatments. The most common skin conditions Pico lasers are used to treat include:
- Acne scars
- Freckles
- Stretch marks
- Birthmarks
- Melisma pigmentation
- Discoloration
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage
- Tattoos
- Rosacea
- Liver spots
- Skin texture irregularities
How Do Pico Laser Treatments Work?
Pico lasers direct extremely short pulses of highly concentrated energy at the affected part of the skin, breaking down problem skin particles or pigments.
Once the laser breaks up skin particles and pigments, the body will naturally eliminate them. Unlike other treatments, Pico lasers don’t use heat, and the laser is relatively gentle to the skin’s outer layer.
Do Pico Laser Treatments Actually Work?
Yes, many studies have found that pico laser treatments are effective at treating a variety of skin conditions.
For example, a 2020 systematic review found that pico lasers were safe and effective for a variety of dermatological conditions.
What Are the Benefits of Pico Laser Treatments?
On the fence about Pico laser treatments? Check out the primary 12 benefits of Pico laser treatments below:
Faster results
Pico lasers produce visible improvements more quickly than many traditional lasers, shortening the time it takes to reduce skin imperfections.
Few sessions
Many people reach their goals in two to four visits, and some patients achieve the outcome they want after just one treatment.
Super-fast appointments
Sessions typically last 5 to 30 minutes, making them easy to fit into a busy day.
Minimal discomfort
Most patients report only mild, temporary sensations during treatment, and a topical anesthetic is rarely needed.
Reduced or no downtime
You can usually return to normal activities right away or within a day. Any redness or swelling typically fades within hours.
Non-invasive
The treatment involves no incisions or surgery, which reduces the risk of complications and eliminates the need for wound care.
Targeted precision
Ultra-short pulses focus energy exactly where it’s needed while protecting the surrounding skin. This precision works on many areas of the face and body.
Safe for all skin types
The technology is suitable for light to dark complexions with a lower risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring.
Few side effects
Adverse reactions are uncommon and typically mild, so most patients don’t experience any uncomfortable or unsightly after-effects.
Collagen stimulation
The laser encourages collagen production, which supports firmer, more elastic skin over time.
Improves texture and tone
Skin often looks smoother and more even as roughness and discoloration diminish.
Treats multiple concerns
Pico laser can address pigmentation issues, sun and age spots, acne scars, enlarged pores, dullness, and other common irregularities.
Common Questions About Pico Laser Treatment
Want to know more about Pico laser treatments? Review our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Pico lasers:
How Many Sessions of Pico Laser Treatment Do I Need?
Typically, most patients need two to four sessions of Pico laser treatments to receive their desired results. However, those who are receiving treatment for a tattoo removal often need more sessions to achieve their desired results.
How Long Are Pico Laser Treatments?
Pico laser treatments can be completed in around 15 minutes, making them a popular option for those on a tight schedule.
Time ranges can vary depending on the condition being treated, so make sure to ask your provider for an estimate at your first appointment.
How Long Do Pico Laser Treatments Last?
How long Pico laser treatments last depends on the condition, with some results being temporary and others permanent.
For example, results from scar, tattoo, or hyperpigmentation removal can provide permanent results. In contrast, fine lines, wrinkles, skin tone, or skin texture issues will usually resurface as you continue to age.
Ask your provider about the length of the treatment’s effectiveness for the particular skin condition you want to treat.
How Much Does Pico Laser Treatment Cost?
The typical cost of a single Pico laser treatment varies a great deal, with treatments costing between $300 and $1,500.
A few different factors tend to influence the price of a Pico laser treatment. For example, the location of the practice, treatment area, the number of areas being treated, and the practitioner’s experience level can all influence the price of each treatment.
At Dermacare, we offer price breaks on packages to ensure our patients receive comprehensive care at an affordable price.
Does Pico Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Pico lasers can be highly effective at significantly fading or completely removing tattoos from the skin.
The effectiveness is due to the Pico laser breaking tattoo ink into tiny particles that your body can then eliminate naturally.
If you’re interested in Pico laser tattoo removal, keep in mind that you’ll likely need more appointments than you would for other skin issues. Typically, tattoo removal requires 4 to 20 or more sessions to significantly fade or eliminate the tattoo.
Are Pico Laser Treatments Safe for People With Dark Skin?
Yes, pico laser treatments are far safer for people with darker skin tones compared to older laser treatments. Since pico lasers don’t generate heat, they’re far less likely to cause burns or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Are Pico Laser Treatments Better Than IPL?
“Better” depends on treatment goals. Pico laser delivers quick, relatively painless sessions with little to no downtime, making it well-suited for smaller, targeted concerns such as sunspots and acne scars.
In contrast, IPL can cover larger areas and address a range of issues, such as birthmarks and spider veins. It’s typically more uncomfortable, less safe for darker skin, and often requires multiple weeks of treatments before meaningful results appear.
Are Pico Laser Treatments Better Than Fraxel?
Pico laser treatments offer a gentler approach with minimal downtime and broad skin-tone safety, making it a strong option for pigment concerns, mild texture issues, fine lines, and even tattoo removal.
In contrast, Fraxel more deeply stimulates robust collagen, producing more dramatic improvements in deeper wrinkles, significant sun damage, and pronounced acne scarring. However, this treatment typically requires two to three days of downtime, during which the treated skin will feel as if it has been sunburned.
If you want maximal resurfacing power and are fine with longer downtime, Fraxel is usually the better choice. However, if you want to reduce downtime and correct a smaller issue more quickly, a Pico laser treatment is often the right option.
Schedule a Pico Laser Appointment in San Diego
If you’re interested in receiving Pico laser treatments in San Diego, Carlsbad, San Juan Capistrano, or Encinitas, Dermacare is ready to welcome you to one of our medspas. Our Pico laser skin rejuvenation treatments can help address a variety of skin conditions, and many of our appointments take as little as 15 minutes. With a team of nurses, physical assistants, and licensed esthetic professionals, we’re confident we can help you achieve a more revitalized appearance and achieve your goals.
Learn more about our Pico laser treatments today. If you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation, please contact us.