Laser Pigment Reduction
Using the Discovery PICO Series
Laser Pigment Reduction
At Sanger Avenue Medical Aesthetics in Waco, Texas, we use the Discovery PICO series by Quanta Systems to treat unwanted pigmentation with exceptional precision and safety. Using both nano second and picosecond pulses and having access to multiple potential wavelengths, the Discovery PICO shatters pigment in the skin into particles small enough for the body to naturally eliminate. This treats hyperpigmentation, age spots, sun damage, and other pigmented lesions without damaging the surrounding skin.
With three true laser wavelengths (1064nm, 694nm, and 532nm) and industry-leading peak power, the Discovery PICO can be precisely matched to the specific type and depth of pigmentation being treated, delivering better clearance with fewer sessions than older laser technologies.
What It Treats
- Hyperpigmentation and melasma
- Age spots and liver spots
- Sun damage and sunspots
- Freckles and solar lentigos
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Cafe au lait spots and other benign pigmented lesions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Discovery PICO delivers ultra-short nanosecond and picosecond laser pulses that shatter pigment particles in the skin into fragments small enough for the body's immune system to naturally clear away. The surrounding tissue is left unaffected, making it a precise and safe treatment for a wide range of pigmentation concerns.
The Discovery PICO can treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, sun spots, freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, cafe au lait spots, and other benign pigmented lesions. During your consultation we'll assess your specific pigmentation type and recommend the appropriate treatment approach.
The treatment itself feels a little "spicy," but we use the Sub-Z cryo cooler from Zimmer to hyper-cool the area to lessen discomfort. For a few hours afterwards, you may feel a slight stinging or sunburn sensation. The treated lesions may darken or become raised in the days to weeks after treatment. The treated pigment rises to the surface before it's naturally cleared by the body.
Depending on the type, depth, and extent of your pigmentation, the number of treatments may vary. Generally at least 3-4 sessions will be required to gently remove the excess pigment in the skin without damage to the surrounding tissue. These sessions are 4-6 weeks apart.
Results are best maintained through disciplined usage of daily broad-spectrum SPF. Sun exposure is the primary driver of recurring pigmentation. We can also recommend appropriate medical-grade skincare from our SkinCeuticals or Hydrinity lines to support your results between treatments.
Yes! The Discovery PICO Series is designed to deliver safe and effective treatments for all skin types. Its precision and even energy delivery reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that can be a concern with older laser technologies. Dr. Wilcox and her team will assess your skin tone and customize potential pre-treatment topical products, settings, parameters, and treatment schedule accordingly.
Absolutely. There are a good amount of topical products we offer that can help inhibit recurrence of pigmentation. We will sometimes also recommend IPL/Photofacial or NouvaDERM treatment either separately or stacked same day (dependent on the patient) for increased clearance. The laser pigment reduction treatments can also be integrated into a larger pigmentation-fighting protocol that could include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, HydraFacials, or traditional facials.
Ready for a more even, luminous complexion? Book a consultation at Sanger Avenue Medical Aesthetics in Waco.
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