2021 Candela PicoWay Tattoo Removal Laser

The 2021 Candela PicoWay represents the pinnacle of picosecond laser technology, offering a multi-wavelength platform designed for high-performance tattoo removal and advanced skin rejuvenation. Unlike traditional lasers that rely on heat to break down pigment, the PicoWay utilizes ultra-short pulses—measured in trillionths of a second—to shatter ink and melanin with unparalleled precision.

Equipped with three primary wavelengths (532 nm, 785 nm, and 1064 nm), this 2021 model is engineered to treat the widest range of ink colors and skin types (Fitzpatrick I-VI). Its combination of high peak power and the shortest pulse durations on the market ensures faster clearance, fewer treatment sessions, and a significantly more comfortable experience for the patient.

Core Technology: Picosecond Acoustic Shattering

The PicoWay is defined by its true picosecond technology. By delivering energy in exceptionally short bursts, the system creates a “photoacoustic” effect rather than a thermal one. This means the energy is delivered so quickly that the target pigment shatters into “dust” before the surrounding skin can heat up.

• Ultra-short Pulses: Minimizes the risk of thermal damage or scarring.

• High Peak Power: Provides the energy density required to fragment even the most stubborn, deep-seated ink particles.

• PicoWay Resolve™: A fractional handpiece that creates “Laser Induced Optical Breakdowns” (LIOBs) in the dermis, stimulating collagen without damaging the surface of the skin.

Mechanism of Action

The PicoWay works by targeting chromophores (ink or melanin) with specific wavelengths that are absorbed by the pigment. Once absorbed, the picosecond pulse creates a mechanical shockwave. This shatters the pigment into microscopic fragments that are small enough for the body’s macrophages (immune cells) to transport and eliminate through the lymphatic system.

Because the 1064 nm wavelength is poorly absorbed by melanin but highly absorbed by dark ink, it remains the safest and most effective option for treating tattoos on darker skin tones without causing pigment loss (hypopigmentation).

Applications and Clinical Uses

• Multi-Colored Tattoo Removal: Efficiently clears red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and black inks.

• Pigmented Lesions: Treats sunspots, age spots, café-au-lait macules, and melasma.

• Skin Revitalization: Improves overall skin tone and texture through the Resolve™ fractional handpiece.

• Acne Scar & Wrinkle Reduction: Stimulates new collagen and elastin production for smoother, younger-looking skin.

Key Advantages

• Superior Versatility: The 785 nm wavelength is specifically optimized for challenging blue and green inks that often resist other lasers.

• Maximum Patient Comfort: Reduced thermal impact translates to less pain during the procedure and a faster recovery period.

• Fewer Treatments: Clinical data suggests PicoWay can achieve clearance in significantly fewer visits than traditional Q-switched lasers.

• Safety for All Skin Types: Precision targeting allows for the safe treatment of darker skin (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) with minimal risk of side effects.

Treatment Process

1. Consultation & Mapping: The clinician assesses the tattoo’s age, ink depth, and color profile to select the optimal wavelength.

2. Preparation: The skin is cleansed, and a topical numbing cream may be applied, though the picosecond pulse is generally better tolerated than nanosecond pulses.

3. Procedure: The handpiece is moved across the target area. The adjustable 2–10 mm spot size allows for rapid coverage of large tattoos or precise work on smaller lesions.

4. Post-Treatment: A calming ointment and bandage are applied. Patients typically notice mild redness or swelling that resolves within hours to a few days.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 785 nm wavelength important for tattoo removal?

The 785 nm wavelength is a “sweet spot” for treating green and blue inks, which are notoriously difficult for standard lasers to clear. By including this wavelength, the PicoWay ensures that practitioners can treat multicolored tattoos completely without leaving behind the stubborn “ghost” of green or blue pigment.

How many sessions are typically required with the PicoWay?

While every tattoo is different, PicoWay users typically require 30% to 50% fewer sessions than those treated with older Q-switched lasers. Most patients see significant clearance in 4 to 8 sessions, depending on ink density, tattoo age, and the patient’s immune system response.

Is the PicoWay safe for dark skin tones?

Yes, the PicoWay is one of the safest picosecond lasers for darker skin. The 1064 nm wavelength bypasses the melanin in the epidermis to target the ink in the dermis, minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, which is a common concern with traditional lasers.

What is the difference between PicoWay Zoom and PicoWay Resolve?

The PicoWay Zoom is designed for full-energy delivery to shatter tattoo ink and concentrated pigment. The PicoWay Resolve is a fractional handpiece that splits the beam into tiny micro-beams, making it ideal for skin rejuvenation, acne scars, and wrinkles by stimulating collagen without breaking the skin.

Is there any downtime after a PicoWay treatment?

The downtime is remarkably low. For tattoo removal, patients may experience redness and a white “frosting” effect that lasts a few minutes, followed by minor swelling for 24–48 hours. For Resolve skin treatments, patients often return to work or social activities within hours of the procedure.

Can the PicoWay treat melasma and sun damage?

Absolutely. The PicoWay is highly effective for benign pigmented lesions. Because it uses photoacoustic energy rather than heat, it is often preferred for melasma, as heat-based treatments can sometimes trigger further pigment production. It leaves the skin looking clearer and more even-toned.