Pico laser technology is a non-invasive aesthetic treatment that delivers energy in ultra-short bursts measured in picoseconds. This rapid delivery creates a photomechanical effect that shatters unwanted pigment particles, like tattoo ink or sunspots. The treatment also stimulates new collagen production for skin rejuvenation. This advanced method addresses various skin concerns with minimal downtime, leading many to inquire about the treatment duration and the longevity of the results.
Duration of a Single Pico Session
The actual application of the laser energy during a single session is fast, often lasting only a few minutes. This speed is a direct result of the picosecond technology, which allows for rapid coverage of the treatment area. For a small area, such as sunspots or a small tattoo, the laser firing might take less than five minutes.
The total time spent at the clinic is longer than the laser application itself, usually ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. This appointment window accounts for necessary preparation, including cleansing the skin and applying a cooling gel or topical anesthetic if needed. The time also includes a brief consultation and a review of post-treatment aftercare instructions.
Total Timeline for Treatment Completion
Achieving an optimal result with Pico laser technology requires a series of sessions, meaning the total timeline extends over several months. The required number of appointments depends heavily on the specific target being treated and the depth of the pigment. For mild cosmetic concerns, such as age spots or general skin texture improvement, patients might need only two to four sessions.
More stubborn issues, like deep acne scarring, melasma, or dense professional tattoos, demand a longer commitment. Complete tattoo removal, for instance, often requires between six and twelve sessions to fully break down the deeply embedded ink.
A crucial element of the treatment timeline is the required waiting period between sessions. This interval allows the body’s immune system to naturally flush away the shattered pigment particles. For skin rejuvenation, sessions are typically spaced four weeks apart. For tattoo removal, the interval is often extended to six to twelve weeks to ensure adequate clearance and skin recovery.
The cumulative effect of this waiting period means a full treatment course for an extensive tattoo could span a year or more. This extended duration is necessary to maximize the body’s ability to eliminate the pulverized pigment effectively and prevent skin damage from over-treating.
How Long Results Remain Permanent
Once pigment particles from a tattoo or a benign lesion like an age spot are successfully shattered and eliminated by the body, the removal is considered permanent. The laser breaks the ink or melanin into fragments small enough for the immune system to carry away. Since the source of the discoloration is permanently flushed out, the result is long-lasting.
This permanence applies directly to the cleared pigment, but the skin remains susceptible to new damage. Patients who have had sunspots removed can develop new hyperpigmentation if they do not maintain strict sun protection. Consistent use of high-SPF sunscreen is necessary for preserving the outcome.
The longevity of results from collagen stimulation for texture and fine lines is also exceptional, though the natural aging process continues. The new collagen produced will gradually degrade over many years, necessitating occasional maintenance sessions to sustain the smoother skin texture.