What is PicoSure?

PicoSure is an US FDA approved 755nm Alexandrite picosecond laser developed by Cynosure, Boston Massachusetts, USA. It is able to treat a variety of skin concerns including: pigmentation, tattoo removal, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne scars, sun damage, dull skin and open pores. PicoSure treatments are able to clear blemishes and revitalise skin safely and effectively.

How Does Picosure Work?

Picosure is a picosecond laser which emits a focused laser beam for a trillionth of a second. The shorter pulse duration means that the laser energy is highly concentrated to produce a photomechanical effect- the direct conversion of laser energy to mechanical energy upon contact with the target tissue. Melanin or tattoo pigment in the skin is thus shattered into dust like fragments and cleared by the lymphatic system. In addition, a PicoSure laser treatment includes the use of the patented Focus Lens Array- a diffractive lens that concentrates laser energy to create Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB) in the skin- a controlled injury that spares the epidermis and stimulates a wound healing response that increases collagen and elastin production, with the end result being skin rejuvenation.

Why Choose Picosure?

PicoSure has a pulse duration measured in picoseconds (a trillionth of a second), which is an advancement from the traditional Q Switched nanosecond lasers which emit a laser beam for nanoseconds (billionth of a second). The fast pulse duration allows for laser energy to be directly converted to mechanical energy (“photomechanical effect”) instead of thermal energy (“photothermal effect”). In layman’s terms- better and faster results with lower risk of traditional laser complications such as burns or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Compared to other picosecond lasers that utilise the 1064nm wavelength, PicoSure is unique as it is the only picosecond laser utilising the 755nm wavelength. The 755nm wavelength is ideal for treatment of pigmentation as it has 50 times more affinity for melanin than blood (melanin:blood absorption coefficient), as compared to the 1064nm wavelength which has a melain:blood absorption coefficient of 16 times. The 755nm wavelength allows for more precise targeting of melanin in pigmentation, while sparing the surrounding blood vessels. In short- better results with less pinpoint bleeding and redness.

Lastly- PicoSure is the FIRST picosecond laser to obtain US FDA approval in 2012, and has been clinically validated, with 26 publications and 59 abstracts to date. With a track record of over 10 years and a reputation as industry leader- it is the picosecond laser of choice for discerning clients.