PicoWay®

Q: Common reactions (typically occurring shortly after treatment)

Redness, swelling, and warmth (1-6 hours to resolve; cool compresses may be applied) Mild swelling (24-48 Hours to resolve; slightly longer in the under-eye area) 532nm Crusting response (7-14 days to naturally shed, Do not pick or scratch ) 1064nm Transient petechiae post-treatment (rare; resolves naturally within 3–7 days) skin sensitivity (Skin is more sun-sensitive for 2–4 weeks after treatment; SPF 50+ is required)

Q: Serious risks (rare but must be disclosed)

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — More common in Fitzpatrick III–V with 1064nm deep-tissue treatments; Our physician significantly reduces this risk through Cyspera pre-treatment conditioning, a low-fluence protocol, and mandatory test spots Hypopigmentation — Rare with picosecond technology; more commonly seen with older Q-switched nanosecond lasers Scarring — Extremely rare; most commonly associated with incorrect energy settings or picking at 532nm treatment crusts post-procedure Infection — Rare; diligent post-procedure care and sun protection are essential Paradoxical Darkening — Rare; mandatory test spot required for high-risk patients paradoxical tattoo ink darkening — Extremely rare (associated with iron- or titanium-based white inks); please disclose prior to treatment.

PicoWay® is developed by Candela (Syneron-Candela) Multi-wavelength picosecond laser platform.

REAL PATIENT RESULTS

Patient profile: Asian Male · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-Term Duration
Concerns: PicoWay® (Comprehensive Improvement via Multi-Modality Combination Plan)
Treatment Plan: Dual Picosecond Combination Therapy + Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 12 other options (Multiple Sessions within 3 Months)
Results: PicoWay® delivers visible improvement · Results look naturally refreshed
PIH occurrence: No PIH
maintenance: Annual review + long-term SPF 50 · Touch-up sessions as needed

Case 66: Asian Male · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-standing concerns · PicoWay® as a core component of a comprehensive treatment plan for age spots/sun spots, pigmentation, dark spots, pigmented lesions (within 3 months × multiple sessions) · Led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing

BEFORE

AFTER

Case 67 · PicoWay® Real Patient Record

Patient profile: Asian Female · Fitzpatrick I
Concerns: PicoWay® (Comprehensive Improvement via Multi-Modality Combination Plan)
Treatment Plan: Dual Picosecond Combination Treatment + Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 6 other treatments (Multiple Sessions within 3 Months)
Results: PicoWay® delivers visible improvement · Results look naturally refreshed
PIH occurrence: No PIH
maintenance: Regular sun protection + monthly at-home care + quarterly assessments

Case 67: Asian Female · Fitzpatrick I · PicoWay® as a Core Component of a Comprehensive Treatment Plan for Age Spots/Sun Spots, Pigmented Lesions, Spots, and Sun Damage/Photoaging (Multiple Sessions within 3 Months) · Led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing

WHY LUOWEI MEDICAL AESTHETICS CLINIC

Why Choose Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic for PicoWay in Nanjing

Technology defines the possibilities; the physician determines the direction.PicoWay Multi-wavelength + 375ps ultra-short pulse duration is a powerful tool for dermal pigmentation and multicolored tattoos; however, the more powerful the technology, the greater the need for precise physician-level parameter control.

SPECIALIST

Specialist in Asian Skin

Our physician specializes in Asian facial aesthetics and Asian skin, with a deep understanding of the unique post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) risk that Fitzpatrick III–V skin types face during PicoWay 1064nm dermal treatments. Through mandatory test spots and low-fluence protocols, our physician minimizes risk at every session.

FULL PLATFORM

All three picosecond platforms available

The clinic is also equipped with PicoSure/ PicoSure Pro/ PicoWay, covering the full spectrum of picosecond laser technology. Our physician selects the most appropriate device based on your pigmentation depth and, when indicated, combines it with Dual Pico Dual picosecond.

LANGUAGE SUPPORT

Mandarin consultations with real-time interpreter devices

Consultations are conducted in Mandarin, with real-time interpretation into English and other languages through professional translation devices, ensuring you can clearly communicate your treatment goals and expectations — including complex diagnostic details such as Hori’s Nevus and Nevus of Ota.

Clinic Certifications & Equipment:

NMPA-registered device · NMPA-registered— All laser devices are dual-certified in North America
Candela PicoWay authorized clinic— Full three-wavelength capability (1064 / 532 / 785nm) + Resolve holographic lens
Multi-Device Combination Treatment Capability— PicoSure Pro / PicoWay / Vbeam/ Ai BBL HEROic/ Sofwave All available within the same clinic

WHAT IS IT

PicoWay® What Is PicoWay® Picosecond Laser?

PicoWay® is developed by Candela (Syneron-Candela)Multi-wavelength picosecond laser platform, With the industry-shortest 375ps Pulse duration releasing energy to generate an extremely powerful Photoacoustic effect shattering pigment particles. Its core differentiating feature lies in being equipped with 1064nm Nd: YAG + 532nm KTP + 785nm Three wavelengths address the full spectrum of pigment concerns — from superficial freckles to deep dermal melasma, Nevus of Ota, and multi-color tattoos.

1064nm Nd: YAG With strong wavelength penetration depth, it is ideal for treating Dermal melasma, Nevus of Ota, and Hori’s Nevus (acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules) the preferred choice for black and dark blue tattoos; the 532nm KTP wavelength excels at Superficial freckles, age spots, and red tattoos; The exclusive 785nm holographic wavelength addresses what conventional lasers struggle with most:Blue and green tattoos.

Resolve Holographic fractal lens is PicoWay’s proprietary technology, splitting laser energy into a micro-focused array to induce LIOB (Laser-induced optical breakdown), Activates collagen and elastin regeneration to treat atrophic acne scars, fine lines, and enlarged pores — without damaging the epidermis, resulting in minimal downtime.

Device Technical Specifications

Pulse duration 375 ps (among the shortest in its class)
Primary wavelength 1064 nm Nd: YAG
Available wavelengths 532 nm KTP / 785 nm Holographic
Mechanism of action Photoacoustic effect + Resolve LIOB
NMPA-registered Fitzpatrick I-VI All skin types
Proprietary lens Resolve Holographic fractal lens
manufacturer Candela (Syneron-Candela)

Comparison with Other Picosecond Devices

Device	Pulse duration	Wavelength
PicoWay	375 ps	1064 / 532 / 785 nm
PicoSure Pro	550 ps	755 nm
PicoSure (original)	750 ps	755 nm
Q-switched Nanosecond laser	5-10 ns	1064 / 532 nm

Note: PicoWay® offers the shortest pulse width and the broadest wavelength range,First-line choice for dermal pigmentation and multi-color tattoos; PicoSure Pro More effective for epidermal melasma and post-acne marks.

Why Does 1064nm + 375ps Matter? Dermal pigmentation — such as Nevus of Ota and deep melasma — resides 1–2 mm within the dermis, a depth that conventional 755nm wavelengths struggle to reach effectively. PicoWay’s 1064nm Nd: YAG long wavelength penetrates deep into the dermis, and combined with the 375ps ultra-short pulse duration, it produces photoacoustic shockwave shattering deep dermal melanophages — a clinical advantage that PicoSure Pro cannot readily replicate.

HOW IT WORKS

PicoWay® How PicoWay® Works

PicoWay Delivering energy at 1064 / 532 / 785nm in 375ps picosecond pulses, generating photoacoustic shockwave Pigment particles are shattered into nanoscale fragments and gradually cleared by the lymphatic system. The Resolve holographic lens induces laser-induced optical breakdown (LIOB) within the dermis, stimulating collagen regeneration.

Consultation & Skin Assessment

Our physician assesses your Fitzpatrick skin type and pigment depth using Wood’s lamp and dermoscopy, differentiating epidermal, dermal, and mixed-type pigmentation. Based on this evaluation, our physician selects the appropriate wavelength and energy level: 1064nm (dermal pigment), 532nm (superficial pigment), or 785nm (blue-green tattoos).

Test Spot & Topical anesthesia (if required)

For higher-risk patients (Fitzpatrick IV–V undergoing dermal-level treatment), a mandatory test spot is performed. The skin’s response is assessed at Day 7–14 before proceeding to a full-face plan. For sensitive areas or higher-energy treatments, topical anesthetic is applied for 30–45 minutes prior to the procedure.

Multi-Wavelength Picosecond Laser Delivery

PicoWay The handpiece switches wavelengths according to treatment goals: 1064nm targets dermal pigmentation and black tattoo ink; 532nm addresses epidermal freckles, age spots, and red ink; 785nm treats blue and green tattoo ink. Each pulse generates a photoacoustic shockwave that shatters pigment particles. The Resolve holographic lens can simultaneously activate dermal remodeling mode.

Immediate post-procedure care

Apply a cold compress immediately after treatment. Mild redness and frosting may occur in the treated area (the 1064nm wavelength typically produces a milder reaction than 532nm). Treated areas with 532nm may develop light crusting over 7–14 days. Redness usually subsides within 1–4 hours.

Progressive pigment clearance & collagen remodelling

7-14 Within days, the shattered pigment particles are cleared through the lymphatic system, causing spots to gradually fade or shed. Dermal pigmentation (melasma, Nevus of Ota) requires 6–8 weeks between sessions to assess results, necessitating longer treatment intervals. The collagen remodeling process activated by the Resolve lens can continue for 3–6 months.

PIH PREVENTION · Key Differentiators for Asian Skin

PIH Risk Management

PicoWay The photoacoustic mechanism inherently carries a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation than traditional Q-switched nanosecond lasers, however Deep 1064nm treatments and the 532nm crusting period The risk of PIH in Asian skin (Fitzpatrick III–V) is slightly higher than with PicoSure Pro epidermal treatments and requires precise physician-level parameter control.

Wood’s lamp + Dermoscopy Diagnosis

Differentiating epidermal, dermal, and mixed-type pigmentation — plus ABNOM/Ota differentiation — to determine the optimal wavelength and fluence parameters.

Fitzpatrick + Pre-procedure conditioning

III-V For higher-risk Asian skin types, use a low-fluence 1064nm protocol; begin Cyspera conditioning 6 weeks before any deep-tissue treatment

Mandatory test spot

Dermal treatment + mandatory test spot for Fitzpatrick IV–V; full-face treatment proceeds after reviewing the Day 7–14 response

CANDIDACY

Am I a Candidate for PicoWay Picosecond Laser Treatment?

You are welcome to do a preliminary self-assessment before your consultation, but suitability can only be determined by our physician following a comprehensive evaluation — including Wood’s lamp examination, dermascopy, Fitzpatrick skin typing, and a full medical history review.

✓ GOOD CANDIDATE

You may be a candidate for treatment if…

Dermal / mixed-type melasma (cases unresponsive to PicoSure Pro)
Nevus of Ota or Hori’s Nevus (ABNOM — Acquired Bilateral Nevus of the Zygomatic Region)
Multicolour tattoos (including stubborn inks such as blue-green and red)
Dense black ink tattoos (amateur or professional)
Stubborn deep-seated pigmentation (unresponsive to other lasers)
Atrophic acne scars seeking dermal remodeling (Resolve lens)
Epidermal freckles / age spots (532nm)
All Fitzpatrick I–VI skin types (including Asian skin)

✕ NOT SUITABLE

Treatment is not recommended if any of the following apply…

Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Active skin infection, open wounds, or active herpes simplex
Oral Accutane / isotretinoin use within the past 6 months
Keloid / hypertrophic scarring tendency
Photosensitizing medications not discontinued
significant sun exposure or active tanning within the past 4 weeks
Autoimmune conditions affecting the skin (e.g., vitiligo)
Fitzpatrick VI Very dark skin tones — 1064nm dermal treatment (mandatory test spot required)

Fitzpatrick Skin Type Risk Level × our physician’s PicoWay Protocol

PicoWay 1064nm The PIH risk associated with deeper-level treatment is slightly higher than with PicoSure Pro epidermal treatment. Customized protocols are essential for Asian skin:

Fitzpatrick	Skin tone description	PIH risks	Our physician’s PicoWay Protocol
II-III	Fair / Light	Low	Standard fluence · All wavelengths available
III	Light Asian	Medium	Moderate fluence + Cyspera conditioning (for deep-tissue treatments)
IV	Typical Asian	Moderate to high	Low-fluence 1064nm + 6-week pre-treatment conditioning + test spot
V	Deeper Asian / South Asian	High	Ultra-low fluence + mandatory test spot + extended treatment intervals
VI	Very deep skin tone	Extremely high	Requires expert case-by-case assessment · Conservative tattoo treatment only

YOUR JOURNEY

PicoWay® Treatment Planning

PicoWay Treatment intervals for dermal pigmentation and tattoo removal are longer than for epidermal treatments. Every protocol is personally designed by our physician, to ensure the right balance of safety and efficacy.

Initial consultation and skin assessment

Free 30-minute consultation, including Wood’s lamp examination + dermoscopy + Fitzpatrick skin typing + medical history review + personalized treatment plan discussion.

Wavelength & fluence customization

Our physician selects the appropriate wavelength — 1064nm, 532nm, or 785nm — based on pigment depth, adjusts fluence accordingly, and determines whether to activate the Resolve holographic lens.

Multiple treatment sessions (spaced 6–8 weeks apart)

Deeper dermal pigment and tattoo treatments require longer intervals between sessions to allow the immune system to clear fragmented pigment particles and avoid repeated stimulation that could trigger PIH.

Regular follow-ups · Progress monitoring · Fine-tuning

After each session, progress is documented with clinical photography, pigment clearance is evaluated, and parameters and wavelengths are fine-tuned to achieve the best outcome at the lowest possible risk.

Typical treatment course timeline

PicoWay Depending on the indication, a complete course typically requires 4–8 sessions. Below is a typical timeline from initial consultation to stable results:

Timeline	Content
Week 0	Free 30-minute consultation (Wood’s lamp + dermascope + Fitzpatrick typing + treatment planning)
Weeks 0–6	High-risk patients: Cyspera conditioning + localized test spot observation
6–8 Weeks After Session 1	Session 2 (Assess response + fine-tune energy and wavelength)
After session 4	Most tattoo and Nevus of Ota patients experience significant fading.
Full course of treatment completed	Approximately 6–12 months (4–8 sessions × 6–8 week intervals)
Maintenance after stabilization	Low-energy maintenance session every 3–6 months × 1 (melasma requires long-term ongoing maintenance)

The exact number of sessions and treatment intervals will be customized by our physician following consultation, based on your pigment type, Fitzpatrick skin type, and PIH risk profile.

WHAT IT TREATS

PicoWay® Indications Treatable with Picosecond Laser

PicoWay® is one of the most widely adopted multi-wavelength picosecond platforms in clinical practice today, capable of addressing a full spectrum of skin concerns — from superficial pigmentation to deep dermal targets, tattoo removal to skin texture remodeling.

DERMAL

Deep dermal melasma

Dermal / mixed type melasma Located 1–2mm within the dermis, this depth is difficult for PicoSure Pro 755nm to reach effectively. PicoWay 1064nm Nd: YAG, leveraging the photoacoustic effect, is the primary choice for stubborn dermal melasma.

4-8 Sessions / 6–8 week intervals

DERMAL

Nevus of Ota

A congenital unilateral blue-grey facial discoloration affecting the periorbital and zygomatic regions, caused by mid-to-deep dermal melanocytic lesions. PicoWay 1064nm is the internationally recognized first-line treatment, with significant clearance achievable in 6–10 sessions.

6-10 Sessions / 8-Week Intervals

DERMAL

Hori’s Nevus

Acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM), often misdiagnosed as melasma. PicoWay 1064nm, combined with accurate diagnosis, can effectively eliminate dermal melanocytes.

5-8 Sessions / 8-Week Intervals

TATTOO

Multicolour tattoos

The exclusive 785nm wavelength targets the most challenging pigments for conventional lasers —Blue-green ink, Combined with 1064nm (black/blue) + 532nm (red/orange) for full-spectrum tattoo removal.

6-12 Sessions / 8-Week Intervals

PIGMENT

Freckles & Age Spots

532nm KTP wavelength precisely targets epidermal melanin,Freckles Solar lentigines typically show significant fading after just 1–2 sessions.

1-3 sessions / spaced 6 weeks apart

SCARS

Atrophic acne scars

Resolve The holographic fractional lens induces laser-induced optical breakdown (LIOB) in the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin regeneration to improve icepick and boxcar atrophic acne scars — with no epidermal damage and minimal downtime.

4-6 sessions / spaced 6 weeks apart

REJUV

Uneven skin tone & brightening

532nm Full-face low-energy treatment with the Resolve lens activates collagen regeneration, improving overall skin tone uniformity and clarity.

3-5 sessions / spaced 6 weeks apart

WRINKLES

Glabellar lines & perioral lines

Resolve The holographic lens creates laser-induced optical breakdown within the dermis, stimulating collagen remodeling to improve static fine lines and perioral lines. Can be combined with Botox in combination.

4-6 sessions / spaced 6 weeks apart

8 Detailed table of core indications × treatment plans × session counts

Indications	Wavelength / Protocol	Sessions / Interval
Deep dermal melasma	1064nm Low-energy settings + Cyspera + SPF	4-8 sessions / 6–8 weeks apart
Nevus of Ota	1064nm Moderate fluence + test spot	6-10 sessions / 8 weeks apart
Hori’s Nevus	1064nm + Key differential diagnosis	5-8 sessions / 8 weeks apart
Multicolour tattoos	1064nm + 532nm + 785nm Cycle	6-12 sessions / 8 weeks apart
Freckles / Age Spots	532nm KTP precise spot targeting	1-3 sessions / 6 weeks
atrophic acne scars	Resolve Holographic lens 1064nm	4-6 sessions / 6 weeks
Uneven skin tone / brightening	532nm Full-face low-fluence + Resolve	3-5 sessions / 6 weeks
Mixed dermal pigmentation	1064nm + Fitzpatrick protocol	4-6 sessions / 8 weeks apart

PRE · DURING · POST CARE

Pre-Procedure Instructions · Treatment Process · Post-Procedure Care

Following your pre and post care instructions is what transforms PicoWay laser from “potentially hyperpigmenting” to “reliably effective.” The care priorities differ slightly between 532nm and deep 1064nm treatments — please read carefully.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

Avoid sun exposure and artificial tanning for 4 weeks before treatment (strictly required for deep 1064nm protocols)
Discontinue retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, and exfoliating products 3–5 days before treatment.
Do not wax, bleach, or use depilatory creams on the treatment area
Inform our physician of all medications, supplements, and skin conditions
Please arrive with clean, makeup-free skin on the day of treatment
High-risk patients complete a 6-week Cyspera conditioning course + test spot prior to treatment

During the procedure

Professional protective eyewear must be worn throughout the procedure (mandatory for PicoWay 1064nm).
Topical anesthetic cream may be applied if needed (30–45 minutes before the procedure)
A sensation similar to a rubber band snap; 532nm is slightly more intense than 1064nm.
Single session duration: 15–60 minutes, depending on treatment area and wavelength selection
Immediate post-treatment redness and mild swelling are normal reactions

Post-procedure care

Daily strict broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sun protection — non-negotiable
532nm The treated area may develop crusting for 7–14 days,Do not pick or scratch
Use gentle, fragrance-free products to keep the skin moisturized
Avoid direct sun exposure for 2–4 weeks after treatment.
Avoid retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, and exfoliating products for 5–7 days after treatment.
48 Avoid saunas, hot yoga, and strenuous exercise within hours of treatment
1064nm Normal makeup can be resumed 24–48 hours after deep-layer treatments

D0-D30 Full Recovery Timeline

Duration	What to Do and What to Avoid
D0 ((Day of treatment)	Swelling and warmth subside within 1–6 hours · Apply cold compress No Makeup No Wash face with hot water
D1-D3	1064nm: Mild erythema · 532nm: frosting reaction begins · SPF 50+ mandatory
D4-D7	532nm Localized crusting period Do not pick or scratch Resume gentle cleansing · Continue SPF
D8-D14	Crusts fall off naturally · Pigmentation visibly fades · Vitamin C / niacinamide skincare may be resumed
D15-D30	Stabilization phase · Monitor for delayed PIH · Assess readiness for next session

BENEFITS & COMPARISON

PicoWay® Advantages of PicoWay Treatment

Technology defines the possibilities; the physician determines the direction. PicoWay’s multi-wavelength capability combined with its ultra-short pulse width gives the treating physician a broader range of options when addressing dermal pigment and tattoo removal.

First-line choice for dermal pigmentation

1064nm Nd: YAG Deep tissue penetration — the primary tool for Nevus of Ota and dermal melasma.

Shortest pulse width: 375ps

Among the shortest pulse durations in its class, delivering more complete pigment shattering through photoacoustic shockwaves.

Full spectrum multi-color tattoo removal

The exclusive 785nm wavelength addresses blue and green ink — the most challenging colors for conventional lasers.

Resolve Holographic lens

Dermal LIOB (laser-induced optical breakdown) remodels acne scars and fine lines without disrupting the epidermal surface.

Minimal downtime

1064nm 0-3 days of recovery · 532nm-treated areas may form a crust that naturally sheds within 7–14 days.

FDA All skin types

NMPA-registered for Fitzpatrick I–VI · NMPA-registered.

Personalized treatment protocol

Our physician individually calibrates wavelength and energy settings for every Asian skin patient.

Combination therapy capability

Can be combined with PicoSure Pro as a Dual Pico treatment to address both epidermal and dermal pigmentation across all skin layers.

PicoWay vs Other Pigment / Tattoo Treatment Devices

Device	How it works	Best suited for	PIH risk
PicoWay	1064 / 532 / 785nm Multi-wavelength picosecond	Dermal pigmentation · Nevus of Ota · Multicolour tattoos	Low–Medium
PicoSure Pro	755nm photoacoustic picosecond	Epidermal melasma, freckles, and PIH	Low
Q-switched Nanosecond	nanosecond thermal effect	Superficial pigmentation / black tattoos	Moderate to high
IPL / Ai BBL	Broad-spectrum photothermal effect	Overall brightening, broken capillaries	Moderate (higher risk for melasma)
CO₂ CO₂ Laser	Ablative thermal effect	Acne Scars / Skin Resurfacing	High (not suitable for pigmentation)

EXPERIENCE · EXPERTISE · AUTHORITATIVENESS · TRUSTWORTHINESS

Why Trust PicoWay® at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic?

Google's E-E-A-T framework evaluates medical content across four dimensions. The following are the specific credentials supporting every PicoWay-related statement on this page.

EXPERIENCE · Clinical experience

Real Clinical Experience

80,000 cumulative laser procedures performed
Complete Before & After image archive for every patient

EXPERTISE · Clinical expertise

Medical Training

Expertise in laser physics and photobiology
Expertise in Differential Diagnosis of Nevus of Ota / Hori’s Nevus
Fitzpatrick III-V PicoWay 1064nm Specialized Protocol

AUTHORITATIVENESS · Recognized credentials

Industry Credentials

Candela Medical Key Opinion Leader
Sofwave Key Opinion Leader
McMaster University Clinical Trainer

TRUSTWORTHINESS · Credibility

Transparent and verifiable

Written informed consent form signed before every session
All Before & After images are unretouched

WHY THIS MATTERS

PicoWay® Picosecond laser is not a device that can simply be “one-size-fits-all” device

PicoWay With three wavelengths — 1064 / 532 / 785nm — plus the Resolve holographic lens, each combination targets a different pigment depth and skin type. Mismatching wavelengths not only reduces efficacy but can trigger PIH in Asian skin. The difference between exceptional results and complications comes down to the physician’s genuine understanding of your skin type and pigment pathology.

Our physician has an in-depth command of PicoWay multi-wavelength protocol design and serves as a training reference for peers in the treatment of dermal pigmentation in Asian skin types.

RISKS & SAFETY · Informed consent

Considering PicoWay?

Free 30-minute consultation with our physician, MD — Nanjing · serving the Nanjing area

Common risks · Contraindications · PIH prevention

Transparency in medical aesthetics is itself a sign of expertise and trustworthiness. We openly share all possible reactions, serious risks, contraindications, and situations where we would not proceed — so you have complete information before your consultation. Before every treatment, our physician will walk you through the specific risks associated with each PicoWay wavelength: 1064 / 532 / 785nm.

Common reactions (typically occurring shortly after treatment)

Redness, swelling, and warmth (1-6 hours to resolve; cool compresses may be applied)
Mild swelling (24-48 Hours to resolve; slightly longer in the under-eye area)
532nm Crusting response (7-14 days to naturally shed,Do not pick or scratch)
1064nm Transient petechiae post-treatment (rare; resolves naturally within 3–7 days)
skin sensitivity (Skin is more sun-sensitive for 2–4 weeks after treatment; SPF 50+ is required)

Serious risks (rare but must be disclosed)

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)— More common in Fitzpatrick III–V with 1064nm deep-tissue treatments; Our physician significantly reduces this risk through Cyspera pre-treatment conditioning, a low-fluence protocol, and mandatory test spots
Hypopigmentation— Rare with picosecond technology; more commonly seen with older Q-switched nanosecond lasers
Scarring— Extremely rare; most commonly associated with incorrect energy settings or picking at 532nm treatment crusts post-procedure
Infection— Rare; diligent post-procedure care and sun protection are essential
Paradoxical Darkening— Rare; mandatory test spot required for high-risk patients
paradoxical tattoo ink darkening— Extremely rare (associated with iron- or titanium-based white inks); please disclose prior to treatment.

Absolute Contraindications

Pregnancy / breastfeeding
Active infection, open wounds, or active herpes simplex
Oral Accutane / isotretinoin use within the past 6 months
Keloid / hypertrophic scarring tendency
Photosensitizing medications not discontinued
Recent unresolved sun overexposure or active tan
Fitzpatrick VI Very deep skin tones: 1064nm deep dermal treatment (requires specialist case-by-case assessment)
Autoimmune skin conditions (vitiligo, active lupus erythematosus)

Safety protocols strictly enforced by our physician

Every patient undergoes a pre-treatment assessment including Wood’s lamp, dermascope, Fitzpatrick typing, and medical history review.
A written informed consent form must be signed before each treatment session.
Dermal treatment + mandatory test spot for Fitzpatrick IV–V skin types
All PicoWay treatments are performed personally by our physician — never delegated to a technician.
Photo documentation after every session to track progress and fine-tune wavelength and fluence settings

EVIDENCE & REFERENCES

Where the medical claims on this page come from

Everything above about PicoWay® rests on published evidence rather than on our own word. The sources below are the ones behind those statements: peer-reviewed papers indexed in PubMed, and guidance written for patients by dermatology academies and national health services. Read them before you decide — and bring any of them to your consultation.

Peer-reviewedA Systematic Review of Picosecond Laser in Dermatology: Evidence and RecommendationsLasers Surg Med · 2021
Peer-reviewedRecognizing and Managing Complications in Laser Resurfacing, Chemical Peels, and DermabrasionFacial Plast Surg Clin North Am · 2020
Peer-reviewedCommon Dermatologic Procedures and the Associated Complications Unique to Skin of ColorDermatol Surg · 2021
Peer-reviewedTreatment of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Colour: A Systematic ReviewJ Cutan Med Surg · 2024
Patient guidanceAcne: Lasers and lightsAmerican Academy of Dermatology
Patient guidanceLaser tattoo removalAmerican Academy of Dermatology

What these references can and cannot tell you. They describe what is known about the treatment itself — how well it tends to work, how long results last, and what can go wrong. They are not an assessment of this clinic, and no published study can tell you whether it suits your skin type, anatomy, or medical history. That judgement comes from the physician who examines you in person, and it may well be “not this one”.