What is the Pico Laser?
The Pico laser, is the latest comprehensive solution to improving skin pigmentation and tone. It operates in picosecond increments to dissolve even the tiniest of particles, offers Q-switched (nanosecond) pulse capabilities for dealing with larger, deeper pigments, and uses four different wavelengths for different pigmentations. Hence the name: Pico laser.
This high level of adaptability allows us to treat at a surface level or with deep penetration, targeting the smallest of spots or wide areas of your skin, to shatter pigments anywhere in your skin that are then removed by your body’s immune system for a natural solution. These can be used to treat:
How Does Pico Laser Treatment Work?
All cosmetic treatments at Wilmington Dermatology Center begin with a complimentary consultation where we discuss your skincare goals and examine the treatment area to ensure it is healthy.
For Pico laser treatment, however, we also discuss enhancing products you may use; whether we want to use the new PicoFractional and Photofacial treatments; and how you want to balance number of visits against potential downtime.
Why Receive Pico Laser Treatment at Wilmington Dermatology Center?
The Pico laser is a highly adaptable tool, meaning it can produce incredibly precise pigmentation correction and skin rejuvenation — when utilized by a specialist with experience using this specific technology.
At Wilmington Dermatology Center, one of Eastern North Carolina’s top practices, our team of highly trained physician assistants and aesthetic professionals is led by Rosalyn George, M.D., a leader in the field of aesthetics. Dr. George and her team will make sure that your treatment plan is customized to your unique skin quality, aesthetic goals, and comfort.
Prior to Treatment
Please protect your skin, particularly from the sun, prior to your appointment. We’ll begin your visit by cleansing the treatment areas and offering a topical numbing cream to minimize any heat sensation.
During Treatment
The Pico laser creates microscopic holes in the skin, known as Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB), to target and eliminate unwanted pigments at the source. This photoacoustic beam also triggers a dramatic healing response to promote collagen and elastin production for younger, healthier skin. You should only feel a mild heat sensation; there is no thermal injury.
We often recommend a series of three to six treatments, with four to six weeks between visits. You should keep your treatment areas covered and out of the sun between appointments.
After Treatment & Results
In general, you may experience skin pinkness for a couple hours after treatment, but little other downtime. This may vary by aggressiveness of treatment but shouldn’t change dramatically.
You may notice improvement in skin texture and pigmentation the day after your first treatment, with results improving progressively for several weeks from there. If you have a full schedule of three to six sessions, you may see continuous improvement for up to six months. Results can last years or even be permanent depending on your skin quality and skin care routine.
Patient Documents
Please download and view the Pico laser pre-visit instructions ahead of your visit.
Please download and view the Pico laser post-care instructions to follow after your treatment.