PicoWay Resolve
Picosecond Facial Skin Rejuvenation
PROCEDURE TYPE
Light based procedure.
HOW PERFORMED
Using the m22 IPL device by Lumenis.
INDICATIONS
Improve sun damage, acne, vessels, and more.
PAIN LEVEL
Minimal.
RECOVERY TIME
1-4 days.
RESULTS DURATION
Up to one year. Some results are permanent.
PicoWay Resolve at The Dermatology and Laser Group
PicoWay Resolve is a revolutionary laser treatment that uses ultra-short pulses of laser energy to target and treat skin imperfections at their source. This laser is part of the PicoWay system, known for its ability to deliver powerful results with minimal invasiveness. PicoWay Resolve is particularly effective in treating wrinkles, pigmentation issues, acne scars, and improving overall skin texture and tone, making it a versatile option for skin rejuvenation.
PAIN LEVEL
Minimal.
PROCEDURE TYPE
Laser procedure.
HOW PERFORMED
Laser performed using the PicoWay Resolve by Candela.
INDICATIONS
Improve sun damage, acne scars, wrinkles, and skin texture.
RESULTS DURATION
Up to 1 year. Some results permanent.
RECOVERY TIME
Few hours to few days.
Sophisticated Technology
In our opinion, PicoWay is the most sophisticated skin rejuvenation laser on the market. Its ultra-short pulses stimulate collagen and elastin production and effectively address excess pigmentation with minimal downtime and reduced risk compared to traditional lasers that rely on intense heat as their primary mechanism.Minimal Downtime
As compared to other rejuvenation lasers, the PicoWay Resolve laser has minimal downtime. Where as traditional fractional laser skin resurfacing may have downtime anywhere from 2-14 days long, with picosecond lasers such as the PicoWay Resolve downtime is limited to mere hours.Melasma-Safe
The PicoWay Resolve is one of very few lasers that is FDA-cleared for the treatment of melasma. Unlike most skin rejuvenation lasers that can make melasma worse, the PicoWay would be safe in patients with melasma.
What can PicoWay Resolve treat?
PicoWay Resolve is a picosecond laser that uses ultra-short pulses to improve:
- Wrinkles
- Acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Skin texture and tone
PicoWay Resolve in New York City
What is PicoWay Resolve?
PicoWay Resolve is a non-invasive, picosecond laser treatment specifically designed for skin rejuvenation. Unlike traditional lasers that rely on heat, PicoWay Resolve uses ultra-short pulses of energy to treat skin imperfections without causing significant damage to the surrounding tissue. This precision makes it effective for addressing acne scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues like sunspots and melasma, all with little to no downtime and superior safety and efficacy as compared to older generation lasers.
How Does PicoWay Resolve Work?
It works by delivering laser energy in ultra-short pulses, measured in picoseconds (trillionths of a second). The laser energy is split into multiple microbeams that penetrate the skin with a photoacoustic effect, creating tiny vacuoles or spaces under the skin's surface. This rapid delivery of energy produces two benefits:
- Treatment of Hyperpigmentation: The photoacoustic effect which shatters pigment particles in the skin without generating significant heat.
- These vacuoles trigger the body's natural healing response, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which are crucial for maintaining the skin's elasticity and youthful appearance. One of the main advantages over older generation nanosecond lasers is its ability to generate elastin. Traditional resurfacing lasers create intense heat, which does not allow elastin to form.
What to Expect During a Treatment
A typical session is relatively quick, usually lasting between 15 to 30 minutes depending on the area being treated. During the procedure, the laser handpiece will be passed over the target area, delivering precise microbeams of energy. Patients often describe the sensation as a mild tingling or snapping feeling. To ensure comfort, a cooling device called a Zimmer Cooler is used in our office.
What to Expect After a Treatment
One of the significant advantages is its minimal downtime. After the treatment, you may experience some redness and swelling, similar to a mild sunburn, which typically subsides within a few hours to a day. Since the treatment does not rely on heat, the risk of side effects is lower compared to other laser treatments. You can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the session, and makeup can be applied as soon as the following day.
Results develop gradually as collagen production increases and the skin heals. Most patients start noticing improvements in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance within a few weeks, with optimal results typically visible after a series of treatments.
Who is a candidate?
PicoWay Resolve is suitable for a wide range of skin types and tones. It is especially beneficial for individuals looking to address issues such as:
- Acne scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation (including sunspots and melasma)
- Uneven skin texture
Patients seeking a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime are ideal candidates for PicoWay Resolve. However, a consultation with our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Arash Akhavan, is essential to determine if this treatment is the best option for your specific skin concerns.
Patient Testimonials and Google Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
The number of treatments varies depending on the specific skin concern and desired outcome. Most patients benefit from a series of 3 to 5 sessions, spaced about 4 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.
Yes, it is safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones. The laser's precision and lack of significant heat reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation and other side effects, making it a versatile option for a diverse range of patients.
The results are long-lasting, especially with a good skincare routine and sun protection. However, the natural aging process will continue, and your will continue to lose collagen and elastin as you age. Therefore, as with all rejuvenation procedures, maintenance treatments are recommended to sustain your results.
The PicoWay laser, with its ultra-short picosecond pulses, offer significant advantages over older nanosecond lasers. The shorter pulse duration creates a photoacoustic effect rather than a photothermal effect. This results in reduced risk of skin damage, less discomfort during treatment, and minimal downtime.
Fractional laser skin resurfacing is a popular procedure in our office, and we have the advantage of having multiple devices available for use, each with distinct benefits. For patients who want more collagen generation, ResurFx is a great option, with just several days of downtime. For patients with lighter skin tones wanting the maximum amount of collagen generation in a single laser session, the CO2 laser is the best option.
This is our procedure page about PicoWay Laser offered in our office.
The Page is Authored By: Arash Akhavan, M.D., board-certified dermatologist, and founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City.