Acne scars and sun damage are two of the most common skin concerns that most adults want to address. Roughly 47 percent of acne patients develop acne scars, and UV exposure is responsible for about 80 percent of the aging signs. Much of this results from excess melanin and collagen loss, which contribute to skin aging. 

PicoWay® Laser is one of the most effective solutions for treating acne scars and sun aging with minimal potential for downtime. When combined with a sunblock of at least SPF 30+, the treatment triggers the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Dr. Ariel Ostad explains how this treatment works for acne scars and sun damage, as well as what to expect.

How Exactly Does PicoWay® Laser Work?

PicoWay® Laser delivers ultra-short picosecond pulses of energy into the skin. Rather than using heat to break down the pigment, PicoWay® Laser relies on photoacoustic or pressure-based energy. This gently fragments the excess pigment into the skin and starts a remodeling process with minimal damage.

The multiple wavelengths target different pigments and texture issues. This makes PicoWay® Laser as effective for tattoos as it is for sun spots. The body gradually flushes out the damaged pigmented cells, leaving clear skin behind. 

Patients can expect low to moderate discomfort that feels like a rubber band snap on the skin. However, after one to two days of mild redness, the skin starts producing the proteins it needs to recover while prompting skin resurfacing. The procedure is safe for most skin types, making it the go-to option for darker-skinned individuals.

PicoWay® Laser vs. Acne Scars

Acne scars happen when deep inflammation disrupts the normal collagen repair process. Over time, the process slows, and the loss of collagen leaves pits and indentations. Restarting the collagen induction process is necessary to fill in atrophic scars and smooth skin texture. 

Here is how the appropriate PicoWay® Laser wavelengths help with acne scars: 

1. Collagen Stimulation

The PicoWay® Laser creates tiny, invisible holes in the skin through a process called “Laser Induced Optical Breakdown” (LIOB). The microscopic bubbles trigger the body’s healing response without breaking the skin, leading to increased collagen production. As the body works to heal the “injuries,” a byproduct is that the pits in the skin fill out as well. 

2. Reduces Acne Redness and Pigmentation

PicoWay® Laser breaks down most types of pigment and excess blood vessels, including post-acne spots and redness. It restarts the healing process, allowing the body to naturally flush out damaged cells. The result is an even skin tone. 

3. Enlarged Pore Reduction

The ultra-short pulses of the PicoWay® Laser stimulate collagen and elastin production, reducing the size of your pores with time. When this happens, the pores are no longer able to trap as much sebum and bacteria, reducing the potential for acne and damage. This consequently reduces the likelihood of acne scars. 

PicoWay® Laser vs. Sun Damage 

The same technology that allows PicoWay® Laser to handle acne scars can also reduce sun damage. Picosecond lasers have shown they are capable of removing non-tattoo skin lesions and photoaging after an average of three to four treatments.

Here are the most common ways in which PicoWay® Laser addresses sun damage: 

1. Reduces Pigment Irregularities

PicoWay® Laser shatters clusters of melanin that formed in excess, such as freckles, solar lentigines (brown spots), and sun spots. These pigments are broken into dust-like particles that clear away through the immune system, leading to clear-toned skin that no longer needs as much makeup. 

2. Minimized Wrinkles and Fine Lines

The new production of collagen and elastin helps fade the intensity of wrinkles and fine lines, leading to a more youthful expression. The new collagen fills out the creases in the skin, whereas the addition of elastin allows it to bounce back into tighter tissue. This not only reduces facial lines but also actively addresses sagging.

3. Reduces Skin Dullness

Consistent exposure to UV rays reduces the skin’s collagen content, which ultimately affects its ability to repair damage. The skin becomes duller over time because it no longer sheds the damaged top layer as quickly. PicoWay® Laser increases collagen production, which encourages cell turnover and allows healthy cells to reach the surface. Most people notice a “glow” to their skin after one to three sessions.

Making the Most of PicoWay® Laser

The PicoWay® Laser treatment is effective on its own to reduce the intensity of wrinkles and fine lines. However, depending on the skin’s starting condition, it sometimes works even better when combined with the right treatment. This includes: 

• Microneedling: PicoWay® Laser triggers collagen production. For an even greater collagen boost, consider combining it with Morpheus8™. 
• DiamondGlow™: PicoWay® Laser triggers pigment removal, whereas DiamondGlow™ speeds up exfoliation. When combined with the appropriate serums, it further improves skin radiance. 
• PRFM Regenerative Treatment: A PRFM treatment utilizing growth factors from your own blood, deep into the skin, all the way into the microscopic bubbles created by the PicoWay® Laser. This speeds up recovery while boosting the skin renewal process.

PicoWay® Laser also works well when followed by aftercare using medical-grade skincare. This supports a healthy complexion and hydration, and promotes fast recovery as the body attempts to release damaged melanin cells.

Schedule Your PicoWay® Laser Treatment Today!

PicoWay® Laser is an effective solution for addressing acne scars and sun damage, especially when customized to your needs. It is a lower-downtime alternative to laser resurfacing and is effectively combined with facial treatments. Schedule an appointment for a PicoWay® Laser treatment with Dr. Ariel Ostad today! 

Find out more about PicoWay® Laser by contacting Dr. Ariel Ostad at 212-517-7900. He can create the optimal treatment plan based on your skin concerns. Alternatively, fill out the online contact form, and we will get in touch with you shortly.