How does picosecond laser treatment work?

The device directs light at a selected colour of pigment. The brief pulse creates a photoacoustic effect, fragmenting pigment while limiting the time available for heat to spread into nearby tissue. Depending on the device and concern, treatment may be considered for sun spots, cafe-au-lait spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or some dark patches. Results depend on pigment depth, skin tone, the cause of the colour change, and the settings chosen.

Have the area assessed before treatment, especially if a mark is changing, raised, bleeding, or not clearly diagnosed. Follow instructions about sun exposure, skin products, and medicines that increase sensitivity. After a session, protect the area from sunlight, keep the skin clean, and use only recommended soothing products. Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or darkening can occur while the skin settles. Do not pick crusts or rub the treated area.

Contact the treating clinic for worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, marked swelling, blistering, or delayed healing. Seek prompt assessment for any pigmented lesion that changes independently of treatment, because a laser should not be used to avoid diagnosing a suspicious mark. New or persistent colour change after inflammation also deserves review.

Ask what type of pigment is being treated, why picosecond energy is appropriate, how your skin tone affects the plan, what aftercare is required, and whether laser toning or topical treatment is a better fit.