What are PicoSure and PicoWay
PicoSure is a picosecond laser made by Cynosure. PicoWay is a picosecond laser made by Syneron-Candela. Both devices operate on the same principle: they emit ultra-short light pulses (picoseconds) that shatter tattoo pigment with a shock wave rather than heat — the photomechanical effect described in detail in our guide on how laser tattoo removal works.
Other picosecond laser brands also exist on the market: Enlighten (Cutera), PICO Genesis (Lutronic), StarWalker (Fotona) and others. They all rely on the same picosecond physics — they differ in technical specifications, not in their fundamental operating principle.
Marketing around PicoSure and PicoWay has led many clients to search for these names specifically, conflating the brand with the technology. That is understandable — it is how advertising campaigns work. It is worth understanding what actually lies behind these names.
Technical differences between brands
Real technical differences exist between picosecond laser brands, though they do not reflect "better" physics — they stem from specific engineering choices:
- Available wavelengths: the most important parameter. Some devices offer only 1064 nm and 532 nm (optimal for black, dark and red inks). Others add 694 nm or 785 nm, which work better on green and blue. For more on why this matters for colours, see our article on coloured tattoo removal.
- Fractional delivery heads (Focus Lens Array): some brands offer focussed lens attachments that concentrate energy in micro-spots. Used in skin rejuvenation and also helpful for stubborn pigment remnants.
- Repetition rate: affects session length, not the removal mechanism.
For a client, the most important question is: does the laser in this clinic have the wavelength suited to your ink colours and your skin phototype?
“A very professional approach and deep expertise. The service was done very thoroughly.”
What actually determines results
The laser brand is one of many factors. In practice, results depend on:
- Wavelength matched to ink colours — the clinic needs a device with the right wavelength for your tattoo, not just a recognisable logo.
- Operator experience — correctly setting fluence (energy), spot size and frequency is knowledge built over years. Two clinics with the same laser can produce very different outcomes.
- Skin phototype assessment — parameters must be matched to your skin tone, not set to a universal default.
- Gaps between sessions — 6–8 weeks is not just a recommendation but a biological requirement. Shortening the gaps does not speed up results.
"I specifically want PicoSure" — that is understandable, because the name is well known. But if a clinic has an equally well-calibrated picosecond laser of another brand and an experienced operator, the results will be better than a clinic with PicoSure operated by someone without experience.
At Klik Laser we are transparent about our equipment and working parameters. If you have questions about technology before your visit, we will answer them at the free consultation — book a time slot. Pricing is on our pricing page.