When it comes to a comparison, you probably just want to know which is better and why. But in this short article, we would like to do more than just tell you the direct answer. We at AES Clinic believe that knowledge is power and that by giving you, our readers, the knowledge, we empower all of you with the ability to make informed decisions, so if you are still with us, we request a small investment of 10 minutes of your time and we will be able to impart you with valuable knowledge on not just PICO Lasers but other forms of lasers as well.
Pico laser and traditional laser treatments have their place in skin rejuvenation, and the choice between them depends on several factors and approaches.
To better understand the comparison, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of the lasers and the specific goal/s of your skin rejuvenation treatment.
Traditional lasers, such as fractional CO2 or erbium lasers, both of which are ablative lasers, work on the principle of selective photothermolysis, a fancy word which just means “using light (Photo) to heat (Thermo) and destroy (Lysis) tissue in a selective area of the body”. Both lasers fire a continuous beam of light which causes controlled thermal damage to the targeted tissue, which in turn stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin fibres, leading to skin tightening and improved texture.
Pico lasers on the other hand operate on a different principle. They deliver ultrashort pulses of laser energy, measured in picoseconds, which is one trillionth of a second. This extremely fast delivery of energy creates the effect of shattering targeted pigmentation or tattoo particles into smaller fragments. These smaller particles are then eliminated more efficiently through the body’s metabolism. Pico lasers are particularly useful for treating pigmentation issues, such as age spots, melasma, and tattoos. They can also help stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture and tone.
In terms of skin rejuvenation, both pico laser and traditional laser treatments can provide positive desirable outcomes.
Traditional lasers offer a broader range of applications, making them suitable for addressing multiple concerns. However, the downside to this flexibility is that they have a longer downtime and a higher risk of side effects, which includes but are not limited to, redness, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and swelling.
Pico lasers in turn excel in targeting specific pigmentation issues and tattoo removal while minimising the risk of thermal damage to the surrounding skin. They generally involve less downtime and have a lower risk of side effects.
Ultimately, the choice between pico laser and traditional laser for skin rejuvenation depends on factors such as the specific skin concerns, the patient’s goals, and the aesthetician’s own personal skill.
A thorough consultation with a qualified medical aesthetician is crucial in determining the most suitable treatment option available to your individual needs.
