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PICOWAY® LASER TREATMENT
TARGETED PIGMENT & TATTOO TREATMENT
WITH THE CANDELA PICOWAY LASER
WHAT IS PICOWAY?
The Candela PicoWay is a picosecond-pulse laser system designed to target pigment in the skin. It delivers extremely fast bursts of energy, measured in trillionths of a second, to create a photoacoustic effect. This means the pigment is disrupted by pressure rather than heat, breaking it down into very fine particles that the body gradually clears over time. With focused pigment targeting, PicoWay can be considered for freckles, sun-related pigment, and tattoos.
WHAT IS IT USED FOR?
Freckles & sun damage
Cosmetic & body tattoos
Benign pigment variation
HOW DOES IT WORK?
PicoWay offers multiple wavelengths to reach pigment and ink colours at various depths:
- 532 nm wavelength is used for superficial pigment, including freckles and red-toned tattoo ink.
- 730-785 nm wavelength targets blue and green tattoo pigments.
- 1064 nm wavelength targets deeper pigment and darker tattoo colours.
Your clinician will choose the wavelength and settings based on your skin tone, the type and depth of pigment, and the area being treated.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Because PicoWay primarily uses pressure or ‘acoustic technology’ rather than heat to target pigment, it can be used for a range of skin types, including those that are more prone to pigmentation sensitivity.
PicoWay may not be suitable for people who are pregnant, have active skin conditions, have had recent sun exposure, or are using medications that increase skin sensitivity. Your clinician will discuss this with you during your individual consultation.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR PICOWAY LASER TREATMENT
Your PicoWay treatment begins with a consultation, where your clinician will confirm suitability and select the most appropriate wavelength for your skin and pigment type. Together, you’ll develop a tailored plan based on your pigment history, skin behaviour, and long-term treatment goals.
During your treatment session
Timelines are a general guide and may vary based on your skin response and treatment plan.
- Each session is 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the area and pigment.
- We’ll prepare the skin, potentially applying a numbing cream.
- Protective eyewear will be provided.
- You may feel quick, light sensations as the laser pulses across the skin.
- Temporary redness or mild swelling can follow and usually subsides within 1 to 2 days.
- A cooling mask or serum is applied immediately after your treatment.
Preparing for your treatment
Preparation guidance may differ based on your skin and medical history.
- Pause active skincare (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs) for 3 to 5 days beforehand.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure before treatment.
- Avoid waxing, tanning, or heat-based treatments before your appointment.
- Arrive with clean skin, free from makeup, sunscreen, and self-tanning products.
- Inform your clinician about any recent cosmetic procedures or medication changes.
After your treatment
Recovery times are different for everyone. If you need personalised aftercare advice, please contact the clinic.
- Avoid direct sun exposure for around 5 to 7 days and apply SPF 50+ daily.
- Hydrate the skin with gentle, non-active moisturisers.
- Avoid direct heat, steam rooms, and intense exercise for 24 to 48 hours.
- Mild flaking or dryness may occur as pigment clears. Avoid picking or exfoliation.
- Makeup can usually be applied the next day once the skin feels comfortable.
TGA-LISTED TECHNOLOGY
YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here, our dermal clinicians have answered some of your most commonly asked questions about the PicoWay laser. For tailored guidance, you’re always welcome to contact the clinic.
After PicoWay treatment, you may notice temporary redness, warmth, or mild swelling in the treated area. These responses reflect the skin’s natural settling period and often subside within 24 to 48 hours. This will vary depending on each person’s response. Pigment may also appear darker initially before gradually lightening as the body processes it. Your clinician will provide aftercare guidance to support your skin during this time.
It’s common for pigment to appear darker after a PicoWay laser session. The laser works by breaking pigment into very fine particles, and in the early stages of this process, the pigment can temporarily deepen in colour. This is an expected part of the settling phase and reflects pigment absorbing the treatment energy. As the skin recovers and the body processes the pigment, the area generally lightens over time.
Pricing varies depending on the area treated, whether pigment or tattoo ink is being addressed, and the number of sessions recommended. Cosmetic tattooing and multicoloured ink will likely require a different approach to freckles or sun-related pigment. Your clinician will assess your skin and pigment type, then provide a personalised plan and cost outline during your consultation.
Treatment frequency varies based on the type and depth of pigment, whether we’re treating natural pigment or tattoo ink, and your skin’s individual response. Pigment-focused treatments are generally spaced several weeks apart, while tattoo treatments may require longer intervals. Your clinician will recommend a schedule that supports steady, considered progress.
Yes. PicoWay is used for both body tattoos and cosmetic tattooing, including brows and lips. Cosmetic tattoo pigment can behave differently from body tattoo ink, so treatment may be approached gradually and tailored to the pigment type and placement. Your clinician will assess suitability and discuss an appropriate treatment pathway.
COMMONLY TREATED SKIN CONDITIONS
PicoWay can be included in treatment plans for naturally occurring pigment as well as cosmetic and body tattoos. Explore how it may be used within a personalised pathway.
Tattoos
Melasma
Freckles
PICOWAY BEFORE AND AFTER
Treatment results are a reflection of the journey. Each represents an individual’s unique skin and treatment plan. Outcomes will naturally vary, as every client responds differently.
![Picoway [BEFORE]](https://www.victoriandermalgroup.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/before-2-2.jpg)
![Picoway [AFTER]](https://www.victoriandermalgroup.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/before-3-2.jpg)
PICOWAY TATTOO REMOVAL
![Picoway [BEFORE]](https://www.victoriandermalgroup.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/before-6.jpg)
![Picoway [AFTER]](https://www.victoriandermalgroup.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/before-5-1.jpg)
PICOWAY TATTOO REMOVAL
REAL PICOWAY LASER RESULTS
PicoWay delivers ultra-short pulses of laser energy to break tattoo ink into smaller fragments within the skin. In the images shown, this process appears as progressive fading of pigment, with tattoos becoming lighter and less defined over time. Changes are typically seen in stages, as the body gradually clears fragmented ink between treatment sessions.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All cosmetic treatments involve potential risks, side effects, and downtime. Everyone’s skin responds differently, so results vary and are not guaranteed. A clinical consultation is required to assess suitability and discuss expected outcomes, after-care, and alternative options.
Let’s talk about your skin
Clinicians who understand your skin
“Amazing clinicians and very professional staff who made me feel super comfortable throughout my visit.”
Behind every treatment is a team of accredited dermal clinicians, nurses, and doctors who genuinely care about your skin and how you feel in it. With advanced training and a commitment to precision, you’re supported by people who understand your skin on a deeper level.
At our Kew skin clinic, every detail is considered for your comfort and continuity of care. It’s an approach that reflects our philosophy: prioritising natural, balanced outcomes that protect your skin’s long-term health and integrity.