What is Pico Laser?
Pico laser is an advanced laser that delivers energy in extremely short pulses, measured in picoseconds (trillionths of a second). These rapid pulses break pigment into very fine particles that the body can clear naturally, with less heat delivered to the surrounding skin than older lasers. It is used for dark spots, sun spots, uneven skin tone, some types of melasma and for skin rejuvenation, and it can also be used for tattoo removal. Because the treatment is precise, it is well suited to careful use in darker skin types when the settings are chosen by an experienced doctor.
Who it may suit
- People with sun spots, age spots, freckles or uneven skin tone
- Patients with stubborn pigmentation who have not responded to creams alone
- Some patients with melasma, as part of a wider plan that includes sun protection and skincare
- People wanting a gentle laser facial for texture and glow
Common Causes and Types
- Sun exposure, the most common trigger for dark spots
- Hormonal changes, which can cause melasma
- Post-inflammatory pigmentation after acne, insect bites or skin injury
- Genetics and skin type: Sri Lankan skin produces melanin readily and needs careful laser settings
How the treatment is done
Your skin is examined first to confirm the type and depth of pigmentation, because some marks need a different treatment. The face is cleansed, eye protection is applied and a numbing cream may be used. The laser handpiece is passed over the treatment area in a controlled pattern. A face treatment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Most people need a course of 3 to 6 sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart.
Downtime and recovery
- Redness and mild warmth for a few hours to a day
- Treated spots may darken slightly and flake over 5 to 10 days before fading
- Make-up can usually be worn the next day
Risks and aftercare
Possible effects include temporary redness, swelling, darkening or lightening of the skin, and rarely blistering. Pigmentation, especially melasma, can return with sun exposure or hormonal changes, so maintenance and daily sunscreen are important.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 to 50 sunscreen every day
- Avoid direct sun, scrubs and strong acids for about a week
- Keep the skin moisturised and do not pick flaking areas
- Tell us if you are using any new medicines or skincare before each session
