Picosecond lasers are a type of laser technology used in dermatology and aesthetic medicine for various skin treatments. They emit laser pulses in the picosecond range, which is one trillionth of a second. This ultra-short pulse duration allows for precise targeting of specific skin concerns while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissue.
Dr Manoharan was one of the pioneers in Australia in utilising this technology especially for complicated pigmentary conditions. He also developed unique protocols for rejuvenation and acne scar treatments especially in skin of colour.
Picosecond lasers are commonly used for the following treatments:
- Tattoo Removal: Picosecond lasers can effectively break down tattoo pigments into smaller particles, making it easier for the body to eliminate them. Picosecond lasers were originally created for this purpose, but over time the versatility of the technology was analysed and understood, to open a variety of treatment possibilities.
- Pigment and Melasma Treatment: Picosecond lasers can target and break down excessive melanin in the skin, reducing the appearance of pigmentation issues like sunspots, age spots, and melasma. Dr Manoharan has developed protocols which combine skin care, prescription faders, and picosecond laser treatment to be able to provide excellent results for many for this challenging condition. Picosecond lasers can also be a very useful maintenance tool for long-term management of melasma.
- Skin Rejuvenation: Picosecond lasers can stimulate collagen production, which helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and promote overall skin rejuvenation. They also cause what is known as “laser induced optical breakdown”, whereby they can cause controlled destruction of small sections of the lower levels of skin, resulting in the formation of new collagen and elastin, healthier and revitalised skin, with minimal downtime. This is particularly suited for Asian and skin of colour, and is a lunchtime procedure whereby makeup may be worn immediately after and patients can return to work.
- Scar Treatments: Picosecond lasers can be used to treat scars in two different ways. Firstly, in scars with excessive pigment (hyperpigmented scars), they can be used to reduce the pigmentation and make it more consistant with the surrounding skin. Secondly, Dr Manoharan has also been involved in creating techniques and harnessing the photoacoustic mechanism and “laser-induced optical breakdown” to remodel the scars and promote normalisation of skin.