Pico Laser
An ultra-fast laser treatment that targets pigmentation and supports collagen renewal, with less heat than traditional lasers.
What is Pico Laser?
Pico lasers deliver energy in ultra-short pulses, measured in picoseconds, which break down pigment particles and stimulate collagen with less heat generated in the surrounding tissue than traditional Q-switched or ablative lasers. It is commonly used to treat pigmentation, sun damage and general skin texture and tone.
Because it generates less heat, pico laser generally carries a shorter recovery period than fully ablative treatments such as CO2 laser, though it remains a laser treatment with its own specific risks.
What's involved
What to expect
The treatment area is cleansed and your skin assessed. The laser is passed over the pigmented or affected area — you may feel a stinging or snapping sensation during treatment. A session typically takes 15–30 minutes depending on the area treated.
Recovery
Some redness and swelling is expected immediately afterwards. Pinpoint bleeding or light scabbing at the treatment site can occur and generally resolves within a week. Strict sun protection is required afterwards.
Potential benefits
This treatment may:
- May reduce the appearance of pigmentation and sun damage
- Can improve overall skin texture and tone
- Stimulates collagen renewal for effects that build over subsequent weeks
- Generally shorter downtime than fully ablative laser treatments
Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
Risks and complications
All treatments carry some risk, even non-surgical ones. Key risks include:
- Temporary redness and swelling immediately after treatment
- Pinpoint bleeding or scabbing at the treatment site, usually resolving within a week
- Pigmentation changes — both lightening and darkening of the skin are recognised risks, particularly in darker skin types
- Scarring — uncommon but a recognised risk of laser treatment
- Variable results — response differs between individuals and multiple sessions are often needed
This is a summary, not a complete list. We may recommend a test patch before your first treatment. This is particularly likely if you have a personal or family history of pigmentation concerns, including melasma. Please raise any concerns with our clinical team directly.
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from CO2 laser?
Pico laser generates less heat and is generally gentler, with a shorter recovery period, but is suited to different concerns — primarily pigmentation rather than deep resurfacing.
How many sessions are needed?
This varies with the concern being treated. Your clinician will discuss an expected course at consultation.
Will my pigmentation come back?
Pigmentation can recur, particularly with ongoing sun exposure. Sun protection after treatment is important for maintaining results.
Why Evolve
Skin clinic treatments at Evolve are delivered within our plastic surgery practice, by our fully qualified dermal clinician. Every treatment begins with an assessment of your skin rather than a fixed package, and you'll be told honestly if a different treatment — or no treatment — is more appropriate for your goals. Our skin clinic only operates from our Bulleen location.
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Book a ConsultationCall 03 9075 0005Important: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary and cannot be guaranteed. A consultation is required to assess your suitability for treatment.