Picosecond laser

Information about picosecond laser

Picosecond laser technology represents an evolution of nanosecond Q-switched lasers. It delivers high-energy pulses in extremely short durations, producing a powerful photoacoustic effect that creates controlled disruption of pigment at deeper skin levels without causing thermal damage to adjacent tissues or the epidermis.

This allows effective treatment with a reduced number of sessions, minimal tissue injury and faster recovery.

Picosecond laser for pigmented skin lesions

The purpose of this laser is to fragment melanin particles within melanosomes — the structures where melanin is produced and stored inside melanocytes — without damaging surrounding skin.

Picosecond lasers are used to treat pigmentation disorders such as solar lentigines, flat seborrhoeic keratoses, melasma, and for tattoo removal. The technology can act at both epidermal and dermal levels, allowing the treatment of superficial and deeper pigmentation.

Treatment is generally well tolerated and associated with a high safety profile, often requiring one or only a few sessions, depending on the condition treated.

Picosecond laser for tattoo removal

Professional tattoos often contain a wide variety of pigments and are placed at different depths within the skin, which can make their removal more complex.

Picosecond laser systems are currently regarded as the reference technology for tattoo removal, including tattoos with pigments that respond poorly to other laser types, tattoos previously treated with laser, and those composed of very small pigment particles used for shading or three-dimensional effects.

Picosecond laser technology works by delivering extremely short pulses that generate a rapid and highly localised increase in temperature, causing the pigment to fragment into microscopic particles that the body can naturally reabsorb and eliminate.

This system uses much shorter pulses and approximately half the energy of other laser devices, allowing improved results in less time while minimising skin damage. Depending on the characteristics of the tattoo, a mild residual mark may remain.

Laser tattoo removal using a picosecond laser is often complete, although this is assessed and discussed with the patient before treatment begins. The outcome depends on several factors, including the amount of ink used, the depth at which it is deposited, the age of the tattoo, the colours involved and the presence of fibrotic tissue at the time of treatment. In general terms, the more professionally executed the tattoo, the more challenging it is to remove. Nevertheless, picosecond laser technology represents, by far, the most effective option for achieving near-complete removal with optimal aesthetic results.

“The Laser Unit at Grupo Pedro Jaén works with advanced laser systems used in dermatological practice”

Picosecond laser for skin rejuvenation

Picosecond laser technology can also be used for comprehensive facial rejuvenation due to its effect on collagen production. This results in progressive improvement in skin texture and quality following each session, supporting a healthier and more rested appearance by activating the skin’s natural regenerative mechanisms.

This technology addresses signs of photoageing related to cumulative sun damage, including pigmentation, wrinkles, dehydration, dullness and skin laxity. It is suitable for the face, neck and décolletage.

Unlike other laser systems, picosecond lasers achieve these effects with minimal discomfort. Patients typically experience brief, mild pinprick sensations during treatment. Recovery time is short, as the treatment does not blister or peel the skin surface, does not cause crusting and does not usually produce oedema. The most common post-treatment effect is mild facial redness, similar to that experienced after sauna use or intense physical exercise, which resolves within hours and allows patients to resume normal activities immediately.

Skin improvement is often noticeable after the first session and continues progressively as new collagen is produced. Depending on individual patient characteristics, treatments may be repeated every four to five months to maintain results.

More information

Below you will find the authorship of the information provided on this page.

Grupo Pedro Jaén is a medical group founded more than three decades ago with the aim of providing medical, surgical and aesthetic solutions related to skin health and appearance. Led by Dr Pedro Jaén, the group has a highly specialised medical team that covers every area of care with top-level specialists, carries out extensive training activities, is a leader in medical research, and operates several clinics in Madrid, from which it offers the highest standards of care and clinical excellence to all patients.

In the Grupo Pedro Jaén Press Room you can find information, advice and news related to dermatology, aesthetic medicine, trichology and general health. The group’s journals are also shared through an online platform, along with updates on the activity and media appearances of our clinics and healthcare professionals.