PicoWay vs PicoSure: What’s the Difference?
Navigating laser options for pigmentation, sun damage, and tattoo removal can be confusing. We break down the clinical differences between these two picosecond technologies and how they apply to different skin types.
At a Glance: Both PicoWay and PicoSure utilise advanced picosecond laser technology to address unwanted pigmentation, textural concerns, and tattoo removal. However, because they operate on different laser wavelengths, only certain clients may be suitable for each device. An in-depth clinical consultation is necessary for all patients to ensure safety and appropriately manage expectations.
1. How Picosecond Lasers Work
If you are looking to fade sun spots, freckles, or old acne marks, you have likely come across picosecond lasers. Older laser treatments used heat to burn away unwanted pigment. While that worked, too much heat can irritate the skin, especially under the strong Western Australian sun.
Picosecond lasers deliver ultra-fast pulses of light in trillionths of a second. Instead of using high heat, the laser sends rapid pressure waves into the skin. This shatters dark pigment into tiny dust-like particles, making it much easier for your body to naturally clear them away over time.
2. What is PicoSure?
PicoSure was one of the first picosecond lasers on the market. It uses a specific wavelength of light (755nm Alexandrite) that targets melanin, the natural pigment in our skin and hair.
Because it targets melanin so directly, PicoSure works well for light freckles, sun spots, and certain tattoo colors like green and blue. However, because lighter skin and darker skin react differently to this wavelength, it may not be suitable for medium to darker skin tones.
3. What is PicoWay?
PicoWay is a newer generation picosecond laser that comes with multiple light settings (wavelengths). This allows clinicians to adjust the treatment depending on how deep the pigment is and how dark or fair your skin tone is.
Because PicoWay can switch settings, it is often a safer choice for medium, olive, or deeper skin tones, as well as complex skin conditions like melasma. It also uses slightly faster pulses, which means less heat stays on your skin.
4. PicoWay vs PicoSure at a Glance
Both devices can be safe and effective when used correctly by a professional, but they suit different skin types and concerns. Here is a quick breakdown:
| Feature | PicoSure | PicoWay |
|---|---|---|
| Best Suited Skin Tones | Fairer to light skin tones | All skin tones (Fair to Dark) |
| Light Wavelengths | One main setting (755nm) | Multiple settings (1064nm, 532nm, 785nm) |
| How it Feels | Like a quick rubber band snap | Like a quick rubber band snap |
| Common Uses | Superficial sun damage, freckles, fine lines | Melasma, deep pigmentation, dark skin tones, tattoos |
5. Which Laser is Right for Your Skin?
No single laser is right for everyone. Choosing the right option depends on your skin tone, your lifestyle, and the type of pigment you want to address.
Melasma & Hormonal Pigment
Melasma causes patches of dark skin, often on the face. Because heat can actually cause melasma to flare up and get worse, treatments must be kept cool and gentle. PicoWay is often chosen for melasma management because it targets pigment using sound waves rather than heat energy. You can read more about how we care for your skin on our skin clinic services page.
Sun Damage & Perth Sun Exposure
Living in Perth means our skin takes a beating from the UV rays, leading to freckles and dark sun spots. While lasers can help lighten these spots, your skin will be extra sensitive to the sun after a session. You will need to protect your skin with sunscreen before and after treatment to avoid causing new dark spots.
Texture & Fine Lines
Both PicoWay and PicoSure use special lenses to help refresh the skin texture. The laser creates tiny microscopic areas of stimulation under the skin, encouraging your skin to rebuild collagen with minimal impact to the skins top layer.
6. Side Effects, Aftercare & Safety
Laser treatments are clinical procedures. Understanding the risks and proper aftercare helps keep your skin safe and ensures a smooth recovery.
- Redness and Warmth: Your skin may feel a bit like mild sunburn for a few hours after your treatment. Mild redness and slight swelling are completely normal.
- Temporary Darkening: Pigmented spots usually turn darker before they fade. They may feel slightly rough and flake off on their own over 5 to 10 days. Never pick or scratch at these spots.
- Possible Risks: If the wrong laser setting is used or if you spend time in the sun too soon, you could develop dark patches (hyperpigmentation) or light patches (hypopigmentation).
- Aftercare Rules: You must wear a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every day, wear a hat outdoors, and avoid harsh active skincare products (like acids or retinol) for at least a week after your session. Refer to your clinical professional for full aftercare advice.
7. What Happens Next?
- Skin Assessment: We start with a face-to-face consultation to look at your skin type, check your health history, and make sure laser treatment is safe for you.
- Customized Plan: We design a treatment plan with the right laser settings and explain how many sessions you might need.
- Your Session: We protect your eyes with special goggles and use cooling methods to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Healing & Care: We guide you through simple post-treatment care instructions to keep your skin safe while it heals.
Book a Face-to-Face Skin Consultation
Everyone's skin reacts differently to laser treatments. Book a consultation with our experienced team in Perth to see if laser therapy is suitable for your skin.
Book Your Consultation Online8. Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your skin condition and how deep the pigment is. Light sun spots might only need 2 to 3 sessions, while deeper conditions like melasma usually require a careful, ongoing treatment plan.
How much does laser treatment cost in Perth?
Costs vary depending on the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions required. We give you a clear, honest price estimate during your initial consultation after assessing your skin.
Does picosecond laser treatment hurt?
Most people say it feels like a small rubber band snapping quickly against the skin. It feels warm, but because the laser pulses are so fast, the discomfort passes very quickly.
Is laser treatment safe for dark skin?
Yes, but only with the right laser technology and settings. PicoWay's 1064nm setting is recommended for darker skin because it bypasses the top layer of skin without overheating the surface pigment.
9. Medical References
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Cosmetic and medical laser treatment regulations in Australia.
- DermNet NZ. Picosecond lasers explained.
- Australasian College of Dermatologists. Laser treatments and patient safety tips.
- Zhen Skin Clinic PicoSure: https://zhenskinclinic.com.au/
- Contact our Perth team: Zhen Skin Clinic Contact Page
