Are you looking to transform your skin by addressing unwanted tattoos or stubborn dark spots? At The Menkes Clinic, our experienced providers offer PicoWay, an advanced treatment that can help you achieve clearer skin without significant downtime.
What is PicoWay?
PicoWay is an FDA-cleared laser system by Candela that uses high-power pulses to transform your skin from the inside out. This advanced technology works below the surface, leaving the outer layer of skin intact while effectively targeting unwanted pigment.
Unlike traditional lasers that use heat, which can damage surrounding tissue, PicoWay utilizes a photoacoustic effect. This revolutionary approach delivers ultra-short pulses that shatter pigment particles while minimizing risk to the surrounding skin.
The PicoWay system can effectively treat various conditions, including unwanted tattoos (including black and multi-colored ink), dark spots, benign pigmented lesions, and skin discoloration from sun damage or aging.
How Does the PicoWay Laser Work?
When your provider applies the PicoWay laser to your skin, its ultra-short pulses deliver concentrated high-power energy that breaks up and shatters targeted pigment into tiny particles. Whether addressing tattoo ink or dark spots, the pigment absorbs the energy and fragments into microscopic particles.
Your body's natural processes take over, gradually removing these tiny particles through your lymphatic system. This approach allows for effective pigment removal while keeping the skin's surface intact and minimizing discomfort during treatment.
Who is a Good Candidate for PicoWay Treatment?
One of the significant advantages of PicoWay is its versatility across different skin types. While many laser treatments work primarily on lighter skin tones, PicoWay can effectively treat both lighter and darker skin types depending on the specific condition being addressed.
You might be an ideal candidate for PicoWay if you:
- Want to remove an unwanted tattoo
- Have dark spots or pigmentation concerns
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about treatment outcomes
During your consultation at The Menkes Clinic, our providers will evaluate your specific concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals, and examine your skin to determine if PicoWay is the right treatment for you.
What Should I Expect During a PicoWay Treatment?
PicoWay treatment sessions are relatively brief, typically lasting between 15-20 minutes, depending on the size and location of the area being treated. Most patients require a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results.
Your provider will recommend the ideal treatment schedule based on your specific condition and goals. Patients undergoing tattoo removal typically experience some pain and discomfort, similar to the sensation of a rubber band snapping against the skin.
However, those being treated for dark spots or other pigmentation issues generally report mild to no discomfort. If needed, your provider can apply a topical numbing cream to enhance your comfort during treatment.
What is Recovery Like After PicoWay Treatment?
Most patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment, making it convenient for those with busy schedules. Following your treatment, you may experience some temporary side effects in the treated area, which typically resolve quickly.
These may include:
- Mild redness or swelling
- Temporary darkening of pigmented lesions
- Pinpoint bleeding in some cases
- Tingling sensation or purplish spots
If you've had tattoo removal treatment, your provider may recommend keeping the area bandaged and dry for a few days to protect it during the initial healing phase.
How Long Does it Take to See Results with PicoWay?
While some patients notice improvement after just one session, PicoWay typically requires multiple treatments for optimal results. The number of sessions needed varies based on several factors, including:
- The type and size of the condition being treated
- For tattoos: the colors, depth, and age of the tattoo
- For pigmented lesions: the darkness and depth of the pigmentation
- Your skin type and how your body responds to treatment
You'll notice gradual improvement throughout your treatment journey as your body clears the shattered pigment particles. Most patients see significant improvement after completing their recommended treatment series, with continued enhancement possible for several months afterward.
Do you want to learn more about tattoo or dark spot removal with the PicoWay laser? Schedule an appointment at The Menkes Clinic today!
