Introduction
Pico laser technology has been rapidly gaining popularity in the field of dermatology and aesthetics due to its ability to deliver ultra-short pulse lasers, which can effectively treat various skin conditions such as enlarged pores, acne scars, wrinkles, pigmentation, and tattoo removal. However, not all picosecond lasers are created equal, and it is important for patients to understand the different types of picosecond lasers available and their limitations.
Additionally, candidacy for pico laser treatment (علاج بيكو ليزر في الرياض) depends on several factors such as skin type, the condition being treated, and downtime allowance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of pico lasers, candidacy considerations, and downtime expectations to help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.
What are the various pico laser treatments available?
This is basically a broad term used to classify lasers that are in the picosecond spectrum domain. With regard to the laser parameter, we often recognize lasers according to a few specifications.
- Wavelength: It can be a 1064-nanometer wavelength, 755-wavelengths 532-nanometer wavelength.
- Pulse duration: So it can be a long pulse laser in the millisecond spectrum, a nano-second laser that we call a Q-switch laser, or the newest technology on the block, which is the picosecond laser. And that tells you how fast the laser is delivered.
- Energy fluence: This is the energy power of the laser device.
Together your doctor will select the right wavelength, the right pulse duration, the right energy fluence, and the spot size for every treatment that they administer.
Now, with regard to picosecond lasers, there is a huge family of lasers.
Picosecond Laser
Picosecond laser means that the pulse duration of the laser energy is delivered within a picosecond fraction and even within that spectrum, the picosecond pulse can imitate a nanosecond pulse. So first you need to understand the brand of the laser because that will also determine the type of wavelength that your practitioner is using and also how fast the pulse duration is.
Are you the right candidate for picosecond lasers?
It is determined based on the condition that you’re trying to treat. There are limitations with every single laser platform. It is important to know that there is no one laser that can solve every single problem on your skin. And that is why it is essential to have a wide spectrum of lasers in order to treat specific skin types and skin conditions. The reason why these lasers are selected is that sometimes they don’t want collateral damage. And to make sure the specific treatment area is being targeted and does not cause neighboring structures to be affected or be damaged. When treating a skin condition the practitioner would consider the following factors:
- Downtime allowance This means how much downtime the patient will allow the practitioner.
- The skin phototype This is important as lasers are not color-blind they are very color specific.
It is very important to understand what are the key concerns of the patients and what they are trying to treat as a focal point at this current point. The second thing to keep in mind is the skin’s phototype as this determines how much the wavelength of laser the skin can tolerate.
Why Pico Laser alone may not be enough
Patients may think that one type of laser would be enough for treating their skin. As mentioned before, lasers have different parameters and they are used to treat different conditions in the skin. For example, a 532 – 755 nanometer wavelength laser would be best suited to treat pigmentation. Such as epidermal or dermal pigmentation.
If we talk about red blood vessels or redness in the skin then the selection is best in a platform between 585 – 595 nanometers will be suited. This is so oxyhemoglobin in these vessels would best absorb that laser energy and reduce redness in the targeted areas. Once the pigment is treated then the redness can be countered with a second laser downstream.
So it is best to consult with your practitioner and see what they can or cannot treat and go in with realistic expectations when you select a particular laser option. It is advised to tell your practitioner what works for your skin to get a proper diagnosis.
Downtime for Pico Laser
Picosecond lasers is considered non-ablative lasers, which means it doesn’t break the skin. Depending on what the laser is being used for the settings are adjusted.
- If you are looking to brighten your skin and to improve skin tone then no downtime is required.
- If you want to remove pigment then the downtime will be less if you have had Q-switch lasers done before as opposed to those who haven’t. It typically takes a week to heal completely.
- Patients who come to treat skin textures and scars should consult practitioners as the downtime varies according to setting adjustments. The patient will experience mild redness or swelling but nothing too extreme.