PicoWay Receives FDA Clearance for Age Spot Removal

Candela, a global leader in aesthetic lasers, today announced that the PicoWay® picosecond laser has received FDA clearance for the treatment of pigmented lesions. The PicoWay laser can now be used to improve skin tone and color, remove uneven pigmentation, solar lentigines, age spots, and dark spots left by acne. Previously, in November 2014, the PicoWay picosecond laser received FDA clearance for tattoo removal. Sales of the PicoWay laser began in the US at the end of the fourth quarter of 2014.

The PicoWay laser uses ultra-short picosecond (trillionths of a second) pulses to break down the melanin pigment into tiny particles. It is gentler and safer than other technologies because it mechanically breaks down the pigment with minimal heat, which is then naturally eliminated by the body. Patients require only one or two treatments, spaced three to four weeks apart. Furthermore, the PicoWay picosecond laser is suitable for all skin types, including Asian skin tones, for which practicing dermatologists have reported excellent results.

Because the PicoWay laser emits less heat than traditional lasers, it leaves surrounding tissue intact, causing minimal discomfort and pain compared to traditional treatments. Furthermore, the recovery period and post-operative care are minimal.