Pico Laser Explained
Cutera enlighten is a picosecond laser platform primarily used for tattoo removal, unwanted pigmentation, and skin revitalization. It uses very short laser pulses to fragment pigment and can also create controlled dermal effects that stimulate remodeling.
Cutera enlighten is a picosecond laser platform primarily used for tattoo removal, unwanted pigmentation, and skin revitalization. It uses very short laser pulses to fragment pigment and can also create controlled dermal effects that stimulate remodeling.
What makes enlighten different?
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Multiple wavelengths: 532 nm, 1064 nm, and 670 nm. This allows treatment of different pigment/tattoo colors and depths. CCutera
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Picosecond + nanosecond pulse durations: depending on the enlighten configuration, it can use approximately 660/750 ps picosecond pulses as well as 2 ns pulses. CCutera
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PICO Genesis: a non-ablative skin-rejuvenation approach aimed at improving the appearance of pigmentation, tone, and overall skin quality.
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PICO Genesis FX: uses a Micro Lens Array (MLA) to create microscopic treatment zones and is used for acne scars, texture, and skin remodeling. CCutera
A picosecond pulse is extremely short. Rather than relying primarily on prolonged heating, the laser can generate a strong photoacoustic/mechanical effect, breaking pigment into smaller particles that the body can subsequently clear. For skin-rejuvenation applications, the treatment can additionally produce controlled dermal disruption/remodeling.
Before your treatment begins, a topical numbing cream is applied to ensure your comfort. Once the skin is fully numbed (usually 45–60 minutes), the Fraxel laser handpiece is rolled across the treatment zone multiple times in smooth, even motions. Patients often describe the sensation as a warm prickling feeling. Cold air is blown onto the treatment zone during the treatment to improve comfort. Treatment times vary based on the size of the treatment area; most treatments are about 15 minutes.
Downtime varies substantially with the treatment. Pigment/tattoo treatments can cause temporary redness, swelling, crusting or pigmentary changes. Potential adverse effects include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, blistering, infection and scarring, and tattoo removal may be incomplete or occasionally produce paradoxical darkening/color change.
Important: "safe for all skin types" on the manufacturer's platform description does not mean every wavelength or indication is appropriate for every skin type; the FDA-cleared indications differ by wavelength and Fitzpatrick type.
Patients often choose picosecond (“pico”) laser treatments because they want pigment or tattoo treatment with relatively short pulses and, for many indications, less downtime than more aggressive resurfacing approaches.
Common reasons include:
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Pigmentation: Patients may seek treatment for sun spots, freckles, and uneven pigmentation.
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Tattoo removal: Pico lasers can break tattoo pigment into very small particles, which the body can gradually clear.
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Skin tone and texture: Certain pico treatments are marketed for overall skin rejuvenation and improvement in the appearance of texture.
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Acne scars: Fractionated pico technologies, such as those using a micro-lens array, can be used for acne-scar and texture treatment.
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Less downtime: Compared with ablative resurfacing, many pico treatments involve relatively little downtime, although redness, swelling, or temporary pigment changes can occur.
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Non-ablative treatment: Some pico protocols treat beneath the skin surface without removing the outer layer of skin.
For Cutera enlighten specifically, the appeal is that the platform offers multiple wavelengths and treatment modes, allowing clinicians to tailor treatment to different pigments and goals.
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Michael Tee, MD, PhD
Clinical Director & Founder
Dr. Michael Tee focuses on helping patients manage a comprehensive range of skin conditions that can significantly impact daily comfort and confidence. He works extensively with patients experiencing skin changes during pregnancy, helping them navigate the complex dermatological shifts that occur during this important time. His practice also centers on mole evaluation and management, including atypical moles that require careful monitoring and assessment. Dr. Tee regularly treats patients dealing with acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and various forms of eczema, conditions that can affect both appearance and quality of life.