What should you know about Picosure laser removal?

The laser delivers very brief pulses to a targeted area. The light energy is absorbed by some pigment particles, which are fragmented so the body can gradually clear them. Picosure may be discussed for unwanted tattoo pigment or some pigmented skin concerns, but not every colour or diagnosis responds in the same way.

The treatment can cause temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or lightening and darkening of the treated skin. A clinician needs to distinguish a tattoo from a changing skin lesion and review medicines, previous reactions, tanning, and the area being treated. See [Picosecond Laser](/technology/picosecond-laser/) for the technology.

At the consultation, show the full area and mention prior tattoo treatments, active skin conditions, medicines, and a history of unusual scarring or pigment changes. Follow the clinic’s instructions about sun exposure, shaving, creams, and keeping the area clean. Do not scratch, peel, or deliberately remove crusts after treatment; protect healing skin from friction and sunlight.

Ask how the clinician will assess the pigment, what endpoint they expect during a session, and how follow-up will be planned. Other pigment treatments, such as [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/), may not suit the same concern.

Contact the treating clinic if swelling, redness, warmth, drainage, or pain is increasing, or if the area develops extensive blistering. Seek urgent medical care for facial swelling affecting breathing or vision, severe spreading pain, or signs of a serious allergic reaction. A spot that changes independently of the treatment also needs medical assessment.

Ask which pigment is being targeted, whether the diagnosis is certain, what alternatives exist, how your skin tone affects settings, what healing changes to expect, and what symptoms should trigger a call. Ask how the clinic will protect nearby skin and eyes.