PicoSure technology combines a dual approach when treating: a modest photothermal process and a strong photomechanical impact based on ultra-short pulse duration. This combination of photothermolysis and intense photomechanical impact, known as PressureWaveâ„¢, breaks up the intended target, e.g., ink or pigment, into particles that are easily eliminated from the body.
Targeting Tattoos
The basis of laser treatment for the removal of tattoos is the destruction of ink particles by absorption of laser energy without damaging surrounding tissue. Tattoo ink particles may be located in dermal fibroblasts. These fibroblasts are predominantly in a perivascular location beneath a layer of fibrosis.
Targeting Pigmented Lesions
The basis of laser treatment for benign pigmented lesions is the destruction of abnormal amounts of melanin in the skin without damaging surrounding tissue.
In benign pigmented lesions, melanin is the chromophore that absorbs the intense laser energy causing the target to be destroyed. Melanin is present in the superficial layers of the skin, the dermis and the intra-epidermal layer.
Adverse Effects
Adverse effects can include discomfort, redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, blistering, scabbing, crusting and bruising, which are usually transient and resolve without intervention.
Possible adverse effects include pustules, skin burns, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, scarring, infection and allergic reaction. Most of these are transient and resolve over time.
Before & After Photos
*Click on the images to enlarge