PicoSure®Laser
The World's First Picosecond Aesthetic Laser.
PicoSure® by Cynosure invented the category. While imitators followed, nothing matches the 755nm alexandrite wavelength — the gold standard for targeting pigment in Asian skin. At Skin Art MD Burnaby, we use PressureWave™ technology to shatter pigment without heat damage. The original is still the best.
Pressure, Not Heat
Heat burns melanin-rich skin. PicoSure's PressureWave™ technology bypasses that entirely.
PicoSure delivers ultra-short picosecond pulses that create a photoacoustic effect — pressure waves that shatter pigment into microscopic dust particles your body naturally clears away. No thermal damage means no burns, no scabs, and dramatically lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). It's the difference between smashing glass with a precise sonic wave versus melting it with a blowtorch.
The 755nm Advantage
The alexandrite wavelength has the highest absorption coefficient for melanin. It finds and destroys pigment with surgical precision.
Focus Lens Array
Redistributes laser energy into micro-lenses that trigger a massive collagen and elastin response — skin revitalization without downtime.
FDA & Health Canada
The only picosecond laser with FDA clearance for acne scars, wrinkles, AND pigmented lesions. Proven, not promised.
PicoSure Technology
A picosecond is one trillionth of a second. That speed changes everything.
755nm Alexandrite
The wavelength with the highest melanin absorption. It targets pigment with laser precision while leaving surrounding skin untouched.
PressureWave™
Ultra-short pulses create photoacoustic impact that shatters pigment into dust-sized particles — 100x smaller than photothermal methods. Your immune system clears them faster.
Focus Lens Array™
A diffractive optic that redistributes laser energy into high-intensity micro-spots, creating microscopic injury zones (LIOBs) that trigger a powerful collagen and elastin cascade.
Boost Mode
A 532nm wavelength option for superficial pigment and red/orange tattoo inks. Two wavelengths, one device, complete coverage.
PicoSure Candidates
If pigment is your problem, PicoSure is likely your answer.
Great For
- +Melasma and stubborn brown patches
- +Sun spots, age spots, and freckles
- +Acne scars (pigmented and textured)
- +Tattoo removal (all ink colors)
- +Dull skin needing a collagen boost
- +Enlarged pores and uneven texture
Not Recommended If
- –Pregnant or breastfeeding
- –Currently on Accutane (wait 6 months after stopping)
- –Active skin infection or open wounds in the area
- –Recent sun tan (wait at least 4 weeks)
Expert Protocol
The laser is world-class. But protocol and experience are what make results exceptional.
Dr. Jiang's Custom Parameters
Every treatment is calibrated to your specific skin type, pigment depth, and concern. No cookie-cutter settings.
Realistic Roadmap
Melasma doesn't vanish in one zap. We build a multi-session plan that clears safely, without triggering rebound.
Combination Approach
We pair PicoSure with medical-grade skincare, oral tranexamic acid, or chemical peels for stubborn pigmentation cases.
Zimmer Cryo Cooling
A -30°C cold air device numbs your skin during treatment. It takes the sting out and protects the surface.
Target Zones
PicoSure is precise enough for delicate facial work and powerful enough for body treatments.
Face (Pigment & Glow)
Melasma, sun spots, and overall skin revitalization with Focus Lens.
Body Tattoos
Arms, legs, back, ribs — all ink colors including stubborn blues and greens.
Hands & Décolletage
Reversing years of sun damage on areas that reveal age first.
Cosmetic Tattoos
Correcting old microblading, lip liner, or eyeliner (with careful test spots).
Acne Scars
Smoothing textured and pigmented scarring on cheeks and jawline.
Neck & Jawline
Tightening texture and clearing pigmentation in delicate thin-skin areas.
Treatment Day
Quick, precise, and easier than you expect.
Before You Come
NO sun exposure or tanning for 4 weeks (non-negotiable)
Stop Retinol/Tretinoin 1 week prior
Arrive with clean skin — no makeup, sunscreen, or moisturizer
Shave treatment area if removing body tattoos
During Treatment
Eye Protection
Laser-specific safety goggles go on first. Non-negotiable.
Test Pulse
A few calibration shots to confirm your skin's response to the energy level.
The Treatment
Rapid laser pulses with the Zimmer cooler running continuously. Feels like tiny rubber band snaps. Most faces take 15-20 minutes.
Post-Treatment Soothe
Cooling gel and ice packs to calm any immediate warmth.
Aftercare
Pigment spots will darken over 3-7 days then flake off naturally (this is normal!)
Tattoo areas may show temporary frosting (white discoloration) — it resolves quickly
SPF 50+ sunscreen is MANDATORY every single day
Avoid saunas, hot tubs, and intense exercise for 48 hours
Be patient — your immune system needs 4-6 weeks to clear the shattered pigment
**Individual results vary. Melasma requires ongoing maintenance. Tattoo removal requires multiple sessions depending on ink density and colors.
Common Questions
Does PicoSure hurt?+
Most patients describe it as a rapid snapping sensation — like tiny rubber bands. The Zimmer cryo cooler blows -30°C air on your skin during treatment, which significantly reduces discomfort. Most people find it very tolerable.
How many sessions will I need for melasma?+
Melasma is a chronic condition, so we manage it rather than 'cure' it. Most patients see significant improvement in 3-5 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. We then recommend maintenance sessions 2-3 times per year, combined with proper skincare and sun protection.
Is PicoSure really safe for darker skin tones?+
Yes. The 755nm alexandrite wavelength and PressureWave™ technology are specifically advantageous for Fitzpatrick III-V skin types. Because PicoSure uses photoacoustic energy instead of heat, the risk of burns and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is dramatically lower than traditional lasers.
What's the difference between PicoSure and IPL for pigmentation?+
IPL uses broad-spectrum light and heat — it works on surface spots in fair skin but is risky for Asian skin and can't reach deep pigment. PicoSure uses a targeted picosecond laser that shatters pigment at all depths without thermal damage. Fewer sessions, better results, safer on all skin tones.
How much downtime should I expect?+
For pigmentation treatments: mild redness for a few hours, then treated spots darken and flake off over 5-7 days. For Focus Lens skin revitalization: you'll look slightly flushed for a day. For tattoo removal: expect swelling and possible blistering for 3-5 days. Most people return to normal activities the same day.
Can PicoSure remove colored tattoos?+
Absolutely. The 755nm wavelength is particularly effective on blue and green inks that other lasers struggle with. With the additional 532nm wavelength for reds and oranges, PicoSure handles virtually all ink colors. We'll assess your tattoo at consultation and give you a realistic session estimate.
Clearer Skin Starts Here
Book your PicoSure consultation at Skin Art MD Burnaby. Let Dr. Jiang design your personalized treatment plan.