Nanosecond vs. PicoWay Lasers: What’s Really the Difference? 

If you’ve ever daydreamed about glowing, pigment-free skin or finally saying goodbye to that faded tattoo from your wild uni days, chances are you’ve looked into laser treatments. These days, laser tech has come a long way — but with it comes a whole glossary of high-tech terms. And when you’re suddenly staring down words like nanosecond and picosecond, it can all start to sound a little… intergalactic. 

So, what do these terms actually mean for your skin? Is one better than the other? And more importantly, which one will get you glowing faster, safer, and with less downtime? 

Let’s decode the laser lingo, clear the confusion, and get you one step closer to those smooth, even-toned skin goals. Whether you’re erasing old ink or brightening up pigmentation, the right laser makes all the difference. 

The OG: Nanosecond Lasers 

Nanosecond lasers — including the well-known Q-switched laser — have long been the go-to in the world of skin treatments. These devices have been in the skincare spotlight for years, particularly for tasks like zapping away unwanted tattoos, fading stubborn pigmentation, and treating certain types of birthmarks. Think of them as the original heavy-hitters in laser technology. 

They work by firing high-energy pulses that last just one nanosecond — that’s one billionth of a second (yes, billion with a b). When these pulses hit the skin, the energy turns into heat. That heat is what breaks down the ink or pigment particles into smaller bits that your body can naturally clear through its lymphatic system. It’s a powerful method and can definitely get results. 

Because nanosecond lasers use heat to do the job, they can sometimes irritate the surrounding skin. That extra thermal energy can lead to redness, swelling, and a longer recovery time. For those with deeper skin tones, there’s also a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — basically, the very thing you’re trying to treat can end up getting worse if the skin reacts negatively to the heat. 

So while nanosecond lasers have paved the way for modern skin solutions, they’re now not the only option — and they might not be the best one for every skin type or concern. 

The Modern Marvel: Picosecond Lasers 

Now, let’s talk about the glow-up of laser technology — the picosecond laser. This next-gen skin saviour works in picoseconds, which is one trillionth of a second (yes, you read that right). That insane speed is exactly what sets it apart — and makes it a serious game-changer when it comes to skin rejuvenation and tattoo removal. 

Rather than relying on heat like its nanosecond predecessor, the picosecond laser uses something called a photo-acoustic effect. In simple terms, it delivers ultra-rapid pulses that create a pressure wave — think of it like a mini internal vibration — that breaks pigment or ink into super-fine particles. These fragments are much easier for your body to process and remove naturally, without the collateral damage that heat-based lasers can sometimes cause. 

What does that mean for your skin? Less inflammation. Minimal trauma to the surrounding tissue. Faster recovery. And most importantly? Better results in fewer sessions. It’s a win-win-win. 

So, if nanosecond lasers are like using a blowtorch to fix a delicate necklace, picosecond lasers are like using a diamond-tipped precision tool. They’re gentler, smarter, and far more refined — making them ideal for those wanting dramatic results without dramatic side effects. Whether you’re dealing with pigmentation, acne scarring, or that tattoo from your backpacking trip through Thailand, the picosecond laser is fast becoming the gold standard for clearer, brighter skin. 

Enter PicoWay — Your Skin’s New BFF 

When it comes to picosecond lasers, PicoWay isn’t just another player — it’s the main character. This powerhouse device is one of the fastest in the world, delivering laser pulses at a lightning-quick 350 picoseconds. That kind of speed isn’t just impressive — it’s transformative for your skin. 

Unlike older laser systems that rely on heat to break down pigment, PicoWay uses ultra-short bursts of energy to create a photo-acoustic effect, meaning it gently shatters pigment into minuscule fragments without heating the surrounding skin. That makes it a much safer, smarter option — especially for medium to deeper skin tones, which are more prone to post-treatment pigmentation issues with heat-based lasers. 

PicoWay has earned cult status for a reason. It’s not just effective — it’s convenient. Treatments are typically spaced just four weeks apart (compared to the six or even eight weeks needed for older systems), so you can move through your skincare journey faster. Whether you’re erasing a tattoo, evening out your skin tone, or tackling acne scars, you’ll be seeing visible changes sooner rather than later. 

Another bonus? The downtime is minimal. Most clients experience some redness and mild swelling immediately after, but it fades quickly — often within a few hours. That means you can fit treatments into your schedule without having to rearrange your life or hide out at home for days. For people juggling work, social plans, and everything in between, PicoWay feels like it was made with real life in mind. 

So whether your skin goals include brightening, smoothing, or undoing past regrets (hello, tiny dolphin tattoo), PicoWay is a gentle yet powerful way to get there — with less fuss, faster results, and zero drama. 

What Can PicoWay Actually Do? 

Whether you’re ready to part ways with a tattoo that no longer feels like you, or you’re chasing that lit-from-within glow, PicoWay is a multitasking miracle worker. It’s not just a one-trick laser — it’s a powerful skin-reviving tool that works on a wide range of concerns with serious precision. 

For tattoo removal, PicoWay is a standout. Its ultra-fast pulses break ink down into tiny fragments that are easier for your body to clear away naturally. Most tattoos — depending on the ink colour, density, and how deep the pigment sits in the skin — can be significantly faded or completely removed in around six to ten sessions. And unlike traditional methods, PicoWay works efficiently on even stubborn colours like blues and greens, which used to be notoriously hard to treat. 

But where PicoWay really shines is in skin rejuvenation. If you’ve been dealing with uneven skin tone, sun spots, melasma, or lingering acne scars, this treatment can help restore clarity and smoothness in just a few visits. Many people start to notice brighter, more even-toned skin after their first couple of sessions — with improvements continuing as the skin naturally renews itself over time. 

Texture is another win. By stimulating collagen production beneath the surface, PicoWay helps refine pores, soften fine lines, and smooth out rough patches — giving your skin that silky-smooth feel and fresh-faced finish that no makeup can replicate. 

And the best part? It does all of this with minimal downtime. Because it doesn’t rely on heat to get the job done, there’s less swelling, less redness, and far less discomfort during and after your appointment. So you can walk out of the clinic and straight back into your day — makeup optional, confidence mandatory. 

Why Choose SILK for Your Laser Journey? 

At SILK Laser Clinics, we believe that no two complexions are the same — and your skin deserves more than a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why every PicoWay treatment at SILK is completely customised to you. From your skin tone and type to your lifestyle and long-term goals, our tailored treatment plans are designed to bring out your best skin, safely and effectively. 

Our highly trained team of skin and laser specialists take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through each step of the process. Whether it’s your first time in a laser clinic or you’re a seasoned skin treatment devotee, we’ll make sure you feel confident, informed, and cared for — from consultation to post-treatment support. 

Curious if PicoWay is your perfect match? Book a free consultation at SILK Hurstville, Liverpool, or Hyde Park (SA), and let’s create a treatment journey that works with your skin — not against it. Beautiful, healthy skin starts here.