Cynosure (US Aesthetic Device Manufacturer)
PicoSure
First in BCThe world's first picosecond aesthetic laser. Trusted for pigmentation, melasma, acne scarring, skin revitalisation, and tattoo removal across all skin tones.
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Treats
Pigmentation, melasma, acne scars, tattoos
Downtime
Minimal. A few hours to a few days
Session length
10 to 30 minutes
Sessions
3 to 5 (pigment), 5 to 10 (tattoo)
How it works
PicoSure is the world's first picosecond aesthetic laser, launched by Cynosure in 2013. The platform pioneered photoacoustic pigment removal in dermatology, replacing the heat-based mechanism of older nanosecond lasers with a pressure-based mechanism that fractures pigment particles into microscopic dust. This shift transformed how pigmentation, melasma, and tattoos could be safely treated, particularly for medium and darker skin tones that had historically faced higher risk with thermal lasers.
The device delivers laser energy in picoseconds, which is one trillionth of a second. The ultra-short pulse generates a photomechanical impact at the cellular level without transferring significant heat to surrounding tissue. PicoSure operates at 755nm, the alexandrite wavelength, with a specialised Focus lens array that distributes energy through a fractional pattern designed to stimulate dermal collagen and elastin production. This makes PicoSure uniquely effective not only for pigment work but for full-face skin revitalisation.
PicoSure is FDA cleared and Health Canada approved for the treatment of benign pigmented lesions, acne scars, wrinkles, and tattoo removal across all Fitzpatrick skin types. The platform has accumulated more than a decade of clinical research and treatment data since its 2013 launch, making it one of the most studied picosecond laser systems in aesthetic medicine.
A standard PicoSure session takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on the area and concern. Most patients return to normal activities the same day with only mild redness or slight swelling that resolves within hours. Pigmentation improvements often appear within one to two weeks as the body clears fragmented pigment through the lymphatic system, with continued progress over subsequent sessions.
PicoSure has been in clinical use in Canada since 2013, and BioPlus was among the first clinics in British Columbia to bring the platform to patients. This early adoption has allowed the BioPlus team to develop more than a decade of hands-on PicoSure experience across both clinics. Every PicoSure session at BioPlus is performed by our certified, fully-trained medical team at both Burnaby and Richmond.
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Treatments performed with this technology
Pigmentation and Sun Damage →
Targeted treatment for age spots, sun spots, freckles, and uneven pigmentation across face, hands, and body.
Melasma Treatment →
Picosecond pigment treatment for hormonal pigmentation, safe across the full Fitzpatrick skin type range.
Skin Revitalisation →
Full-face Focus lens treatment for improved tone, texture, fine lines, and overall skin clarity.
Acne Scar Revision →
Picosecond resurfacing to soften the appearance of textural acne scarring while stimulating collagen renewal.
Tattoo Removal →
Picosecond pulse technology to fracture tattoo ink particles for gradual clearance through the body's natural processes.
Frequently asked questions
What does PicoSure treat?
PicoSure is used at BioPlus to treat pigmentation including age spots, sun damage, freckles, and melasma, as well as acne scarring, fine lines, and unwanted tattoos. The platform's signature Focus lens array is particularly effective for full-face skin revitalisation alongside its pigment and tattoo applications.
What makes PicoSure significant in laser history?
PicoSure, launched in 2013, was the world's first picosecond aesthetic laser. The platform introduced photoacoustic pigment shattering as an alternative to heat-based pigment lasers, opening the door for safer treatment of medium and darker skin tones. BioPlus was among the first clinics in British Columbia to offer PicoSure to patients.
Is PicoSure safe for all skin tones?
Yes. PicoSure uses picosecond pulses with minimal heat transfer to surrounding tissue, which carries a significantly lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation than older nanosecond laser systems. The platform is FDA cleared and Health Canada approved for use across all Fitzpatrick skin types, including medium and darker tones.
What does a PicoSure session feel like?
Most patients describe the sensation as quick, hot snaps against the skin, similar to a rubber band flick. For pigmentation and skin rejuvenation, numbing is typically not required. For tattoo removal or more sensitive areas, a topical numbing cream may be applied beforehand.
How long is a PicoSure session?
Session length depends on the treatment area. Spot treatments such as a single tattoo or localised pigmentation patch may take 10 to 20 minutes. Full-face rejuvenation or melasma treatments typically take 20 to 30 minutes. Larger or multiple areas may take longer.
What is the downtime after PicoSure?
Downtime is typically minimal. Most patients experience mild redness or slight swelling that resolves within hours to a day. Tattoo removal may produce frosting or pinpoint bleeding that scabs and heals within one to two weeks. Your practitioner will provide a clear post-treatment care plan based on your session.
How many sessions will I need?
For pigmentation and skin rejuvenation, most patients need 3 to 5 sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Melasma may require ongoing maintenance. Tattoo removal typically requires 5 to 10 sessions depending on tattoo size, ink colour, depth, and age. Your medical team will build a personalised plan during your consultation.
When will I see results?
For pigmentation treatments, visible lightening often appears within one to two weeks as the body clears the fragmented pigment through the lymphatic system. Tattoo removal progresses gradually with each session. Skin rejuvenation results continue developing over three to six months as collagen remodelling completes.
Should I choose PicoSure, PicoSure Pro, or PicoWay?
BioPlus offers all three picosecond platforms and our medical team selects the right one based on your specific concern. PicoSure is the original platform with extensive clinical history and Focus lens skin revitalisation. PicoSure Pro is the next-generation version with higher peak power and an additional 532nm wavelength. PicoWay offers three wavelengths and is particularly strong for multi-coloured tattoo removal. Your consultation will determine which platform delivers the best outcome for your case.
Considering PicoSure?
Book a consultation with the BioPlus medical team. We will assess your pigmentation, skin, or tattoo concerns and recommend whether PicoSure, PicoSure Pro, or PicoWay is the right platform for your case.
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