Pico Laser for Acne Scars: How Does It Work?
Acne scars can leave lasting marks on the skin, creating uneven texture and affecting overall appearance. Pico laser treatment offers a targeted, non-surgical approach to improving acne scarring by encouraging skin renewal and collagen production. This article outlines how the technology works, the types of scars it may help, and what to expect during treatment.
What Is Pico Laser Treatment?
Pico laser is a type of advanced laser technology that delivers energy to the skin in extremely short bursts, measured in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second). These rapid pulses allow the laser to target specific problem areas, such as scars or pigmentation, without causing excessive heat or damage to the surrounding skin.
The quick pulses create a gentle effect that helps break down scar tissue and stimulates the skin’s natural healing process, encouraging smoother texture and improved appearance over time.
How Pico Laser Works for Acne Scars
It helps improve scarring through several key effects:
Breakdown of scar tissue: The laser creates tiny, controlled disruptions in the scarred areas. This signals the body to gradually replace damaged tissue with new, healthier skin over time.
Collagen stimulation: The laser energy encourages your skin to produce more collagen and elastin, natural building blocks that help improve skin firmness, texture, and overall appearance.
Reduction of dark marks: Pico Laser can also target excess pigment left behind by acne, helping to lighten dark spots and promote a more even skin tone.
Minimal impact on surrounding skin: The ultra-short laser pulses are designed to treat only the affected areas, limiting heat damage to nearby healthy skin. This makes the treatment suitable for different skin types with a lower risk of unwanted side effects.
Types of Acne Scars That May Respond to Pico Laser
Pico Laser treatment is commonly used to help reduce the appearance of several types of acne scars:
Atrophic scars: These are depressed scars that cause small pits or uneven texture on the skin. They include ice pick scars (small, deep holes), boxcar scars (wider, more defined depressions), and rolling scars (shallow, uneven areas).
Pico Laser may help by stimulating collagen production, which can gradually improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of these depressions.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): These are dark marks or patches that remain after acne has healed. The laser energy targets excess pigment in these areas, which may help lighten the discolouration and promote a more even skin tone.
Mild to moderate scarring: Pico Laser tends to be most effective for less severe scarring. While it may not completely remove deep, extensive scars, it can significantly improve skin texture and tone in cases of mild to moderate scarring.
Mixed scar types: Many individuals have a combination of different scar types. A personalised treatment plan can be developed to address these concerns using Pico Laser along with other complementary treatments if needed.
What to Expect During Pico Laser Treatment for Acne Scars
Understanding what to expect during Pico Laser treatment in Singapore can help you feel more prepared and confident:
Session duration: Treatments typically last 15-30 minutes, depending on the treatment area, with most patients requiring multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart
Physical sensation: Most people describe the feeling as similar to a small elastic band snapping against the skin. A topical anaesthetic may be offered if needed
Immediate response: Skin may appear mildly red or swollen immediately after treatment, similar to a light sunburn. These effects usually subside within a few hours
Timeline for changes: Results develop gradually over several weeks as the skin’s natural healing processes work to remodel scar tissue and produce new collagen
This procedure should always be performed by a qualified medical aesthetics doctor to ensure your skin concerns are assessed properly and treatment is carried out safely.
Post-Treatment Care for Pico Laser Acne Scar Treatment
Appropriate aftercare supports healing and may help optimise results:
Sun protection: Treated skin becomes more sensitive to UV exposure, making broad-spectrum sunscreen particularly important for several weeks following treatment
Gentle skincare approach: Using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers helps support the healing process without causing irritation
Treatment spacing: Chemical peels, retinoids, and other intensive skincare treatments should typically be paused around treatment sessions as advised
Skin hydration: Maintaining well-moisturised skin supports the natural healing processes that may improve scar appearance
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Is Pico Laser Acne Scar Treatment Suitable for You?
Pico laser acne scar treatment may be appropriate for certain individuals, though consultation with a medical aesthetics doctor helps determine the most suitable approach:
Established scarring: People with acne scars that have been present for at least six months, as newer marks may continue improving naturally
General health status: Patients without active skin infections or conditions that might interfere with healing
Commitment to aftercare: Individuals who can follow post-treatment instructions, particularly regarding sun protection and skincare modifications
Conclusion
Pico laser treatment offers a non-surgical option to improve the appearance of acne scars by supporting the skin’s natural renewal process. Visit a pico laser clinic in Singapore to help determine if this treatment is appropriate based on your skin condition and goals.
