Picofy
Experience Precision Pigment Correction
If you’re dealing with unwanted pigment, an old tattoo, or acne scar texture, Picofy delivers ultra-short laser pulses guided by dermatologic expertise. At Highlander Dermatology, we develop Picofy treatment plans within our physician-led, board-certified dermatology practice, so we can select the right wavelength, settings, and sequence for your skin and goals.
Whether you’re addressing sun spots and uneven tone, an unwanted tattoo, acne scar texture, or want an individualized evaluation for melasma, Picofy offers a considered, diagnosis-first approach rather than a single default protocol.
About Picofy Picosecond Laser Treatment
Picofy is an advanced laser system designed to support personalized treatment plans. It uses very short 300-picosecond pulses (a picosecond is one trillionth of a second) and can deliver up to 2.0 gigawatts of peak power during each pulse. Its two wavelengths, 1064 nm and 532 nm, can be selected for different treatment depths and types of pigmentation. Specialized handpieces and adjustable settings allow our providers to tailor treatment to your skin type, concern, and goals.
Picofy is FDA-cleared for unwanted tattoos, benign pigmented lesions, acne scars, and wrinkles within specific wavelength and skin-type parameters. Results vary, and more than one treatment may be recommended depending on the condition being treated.
Picosecond lasers are considered among the best-in-class devices for treating melasma. At Highlander, we may consider Picofy for selected patients with melasma as part of a comprehensive, dermatologist-directed treatment plan. We will discuss whether treatment is appropriate for you, along with potential benefits, limitations, and alternatives.
At Highlander Dermatology and Aesthetic Center, our Picofy program focuses on four areas: melasma and complex pigmentation, tattoos and permanent makeup, sun spots and uneven skin tone, and acne scars and related texture changes. Every treatment begins with a careful skin assessment and a personalized plan. Our providers select settings based on your skin and diagnosis, then guide you through aftercare and follow-up to support the best possible outcome.
How Picofy Works
Ultra-Short Pulse Technology
Picofy’s 300-picosecond pulses are dramatically shorter than older laser technologies, allowing energy to fracture pigment and target tissue with precision while limiting heat transfer to surrounding skin.
Dual-Wavelength Precision
The 532 nm wavelength targets more superficial pigment, while the 1064 nm wavelength reaches deeper targets, giving us the flexibility to match the wavelength to the depth and type of pigment or scarring being treated.
A Diagnosis-First Approach to Melasma
Because melasma is a pattern driven by heat, hormones, light, inflammation, and genetics, and not simply a spot, our melasma program follows a structured sequence: diagnose the pigment pattern and triggers, prepare the skin with the right skincare and light protection, treat selectively when Picofy is appropriate as one calibrated layer of a broader plan, and maintain results with an individualized long-term strategy, since melasma can recur.
Individualized Tattoo & Permanent Makeup Planning
Professional tattoos, amateur ink, microblading, and permanent makeup all behave differently under laser energy. Your plan depends on the ink’s color, composition, depth, density, age, and location; your skin type and response also matter, and we may recommend a test spot first because certain white, flesh-toned, and cosmetic pigments can darken with laser exposure.
Acne Scar Texture Refinement
Picofy’s 1064 nm wavelength is FDA-cleared for acne scars in Fitzpatrick skin types II–V. Scar shape, depth, and skin characteristics determine whether Picofy is used on its own or as one part of a layered treatment plan. Surgical scars are not a current FDA-cleared Picofy indication, for those, we assess whether another modality or combination approach is a better fit.
Candidates for Picofy Laser Treatments
Picofy is designed for patients seeking a carefully evaluated, dermatologist-directed approach to pigment, ink, and scar texture concerns, not a blanket solution applied to every skin type or condition. This treatment may be appropriate for patients who want to:
Wavelength and treatment eligibility depend on the specific indication, the pigment involved, and your Fitzpatrick skin type. During your consultation, our team will confirm candidacy, expected sessions, and realistic goals.
Picofy
Before & After
Picofy
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will I need?
For tattoo removal, the range can be one treatment for select simple cases to six or more for professional, layered, or multicolor ink, commonly spaced six to eight weeks apart. Color, composition, density, depth, age, location, skin type, and your desired result all matter. During your consultation, we can give you a more individualized treatment plan and a full result estimate.
Can Picofy cure melasma?
No. Melasma is chronic and can recur. Picofy is not FDA-cleared specifically for melasma, but it may be considered off-label for select patients as one part of a broader, dermatologist-directed maintenance plan.
Will a tattoo disappear completely?
Complete removal cannot be guaranteed. Some colors and pigment compositions respond better than others, and multiple treatments are commonly needed. Cosmetic pigment may require a test spot because some inks can darken.
What should I expect afterward?
The response depends on the treatment. Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, darkening or lightening of pigment, crusting, or pinpoint bleeding can occur. We’ll provide specific aftercare and review less common risks before treatment.
Is Picofy right for every skin tone?
Which wavelength is appropriate and whether Picofy is the right fit at all, depends on the Fitzpatrick skin type cleared for that specific indication. During your consultation, we look at your skin type, the pigment involved, your medical history, and your individual risk of post-inflammatory pigment changes before recommending a treatment plan or settings. That evaluation is what makes the plan safe for you, not a generic protocol applied to everyone.
Who evaluates my treatment plan?
Your plan is developed within Highlander Dermatology’s physician-led, board-certified dermatology team, with diagnosis, safety, and long-term skin health kept at the center.
Your Skin Deserves Expert Care & Innovative Solutions
Schedule Your Personalized Consultation Today
Discover the difference board-certified specialists and advanced technology can make. Whether you’re treating skin cancer, rejuvenating your skin, or sculpting your body, Highlander Dermatology and Surgery Center offers personalized care to help you feel confident for the long term.