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Picostar Laser

Doctor-led treatment for pigmentation, melasma, selected scars and tattoo ink

PicoStar is a doctor-led picosecond laser treatment for unwanted pigmentation, melasma, post-acne marks, acne scars and tattoo ink. Its ultra-short pulses target pigment with limited heat spread to the surrounding skin. It can also support collagen remodelling for no-downtime rejuvenation.

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Targets unwanted pigmentation with precise picosecond pulses

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Improves uneven tone without aggressive surface resurfacing

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Reduces melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation

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Treats a wide range of tattoo colours

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Softens acne scars

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Can be combined with other treatments

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Treatment overview

How PicoStar works

PicoStar delivers picosecond pulses at wavelengths selected for the pigment or treatment goal. The short pulses break suitable pigment into smaller particles that the body can gradually clear, with limited heat spread to surrounding skin. For picotoning and selected scar treatments, the settings can also create controlled microscopic treatment zones that support collagen remodelling. The diagnosis, wavelength and settings matter more than the device name. See our current price list for consultation and treatment fees.

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Procedure Overview
access_time Duration 15-30 min appointments
local_pharmacy Anaesthesia Usually none (except for tattoo removal)
king_bed Downtime Often redness, warmth or mild swelling. Treated pigment may darken and flake over around 5–7 days
check_circle Final Result After at least 2-3 sessions for pigmentation, longer for melasma and tattoos
person Suitable for Selected pigmentation, melasma, acne marks, uneven tone, picotoning and some scars after assessment
Treatment options

PicoStar treatment for your main concern

PicoStar is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Your plan is based on the diagnosis, depth of pigment, skin type and the result you want to achieve.

Picostar Laser

Sun spots and age spots

After diagnosis, PicoStar may target selected solar lentigines and other benign superficial pigmentation. Pigmentation treatments are commonly spaced four to six weeks apart, while the number of sessions depends on the pigment and your response.

Picostar Laser

Melasma

Melasma is chronic and can recur. PicoStar may help selected patients using cautious settings, but it is not a cure and may not be the first choice for everyone. Treatment is combined, where appropriate, with daily sun protection, skincare and trigger management.

Picostar Laser

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

PicoStar may improve residual dark marks after acne or inflammation. Sessions are commonly spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, but the course depends on skin tone, pigment depth and response.

Picostar Laser

Picotoning and skin rejuvenation

Picotoning uses gentle, repeated treatment to support a clearer, more even-looking tone. A course may be as little as 3 sessions spaced 2 weeks apart. The plan and any maintenance are adjusted to how your skin responds.

Picostar Laser

Acne scarring

Alone or in combination with other treatments, Picostar helps remodel scarring by creating a phenomenon called LIOBs in the skin.

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Before & After

Picostar Laser

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Before & After

Picostar Laser

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FAQS

PicoStar Laser Treatment FAQs

  • How many sessions will I need? add_circle
    Session numbers and spacing depend on the indication and how your skin responds. A picotoning course may be as little as 3 sessions at 2 week intervals. Pigmentation treatments are commonly spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Melasma and acne scarring need individual plans, while tattoo removal often requires a longer course. Your practitioner will confirm the recommended number, spacing and review points after assessment.
  • Is it painful? add_circle
    Most people describe a brief snapping sensation. Comfort varies with the treatment area and settings; cooling or topical numbing can be discussed where appropriate. Your skin may feel warm and look pink afterwards.
  • Can PicoStar help melasma? add_circle
    PicoStar may help selected patients, but it is not a cure. Melasma is chronic and can recur, so treatment uses cautious settings alongside daily sun protection, skincare and trigger management.
  • What are the risks and safety considerations? add_circle
    Temporary redness, swelling and tenderness are common. Pigmented spots can look darker before they fade; tattoo or PMU treatment may cause blistering or scabbing. Less common risks include temporary darkening or lightening, infection and, rarely, scarring. Risk varies with skin tone, treatment area and settings, so we assess suitability carefully and provide specific aftercare.
  • Is PicoStar suitable for darker skin tones? add_circle
    PicoStar can be suitable for many darker skin tones, but it is not risk-free. Higher melanin levels can increase the chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or lightening, so wavelength, settings, preparation and aftercare are tailored carefully. For darker skin types, we use a test patch and wait a few days before proceeding. Treatment continues only when the expected benefits outweigh the risks.
  • What happens at my PicoStar appointment? add_circle
    Your dcotor first assesses the concern, your skin and your medical history, then explains whether PicoStar is appropriate. Appointment length depends on the indication and treatment area, so we confirm the expected duration before treatment. On the day, the skin is cleansed and you wear protective eyewear. The laser is applied using settings chosen for your plan, followed by tailored aftercare instructions.
  • How much downtime should I expect? add_circle
    Recovery depends on the concern and settings. After lighter picotoning, many people return to normal activities or work the same day or the next day, although redness or warmth may be visible. Pigmented spots may darken and flake for around 5 to 7 days; tattoo or semi-permanent make-up treatment can blister or scab. Make-up can be worn once the skin is intact and immediate irritation has settled, but not over blistered, broken or scabbed skin. Follow the individual advice given at your appointment.
  • How much does PicoStar treatment cost? add_circle
    Costs depend on the indication, treatment area and whether a planned course is appropriate. Please see our current price list. Your consultation includes a suitability assessment and a personalised treatment plan, so you know the recommended sessions and likely total cost before deciding.

What now?

Your expert consultation

We take the time to listen, assess and advise properly. All treatments at Riverbanks Clinic begin with a detailed in-clinic medical consultation with one of our practitioners. This ensures an accurate diagnosis, a clear treatment plan and that any treatment offered is appropriate, safe and in your best interests.

To arrange your consultation, please contact the clinic directly on 01582 762877.

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TESTIMONIALS

OUR PATIENTS LOVE OUR
RELAXING CLINIC

Patients love coming to Riverbanks for two key reasons: our expert team and the exceptional results we deliver. With highly skilled practitioners who prioritise patient care and cutting-edge treatments tailored to individual needs, every visit is a reassuring and results-driven experience in a welcoming, professional environment.