The latest laser treatments using our Cutera Enlighten 3 machine are proving to be powerful treatments that target a number of skin concerns.
We’ve put together our most frequently asked questions to help you decide if Pico Genesis or PicoGEN FX is right for you.
We start any laser treatment plan with a no obligation free skin consult to discuss your areas of concern. We will recommend a laser treatment that is right for you and brief you on what to expect. You can book one here. We look forward to seeing you in clinic!
Pico Genesis and PicoGEN FX Laser FAQ
What’s the difference between Pico Genesis and PicoGen FX?
Both treatments are both performed using the Cutera Enlighten 3 machine.
The difference between Pico Genesis and PicoGen FX is they each target different levels of the skin to address different skin concerns.
Pico Genesis Is fantastic for reducing pigmentation and refining pores. It’s useful to treat sun damage, uneven skin tone to reveal a brighter more even appearance.
Gentle non-heating pulses of laser shatters area of pigment. Post treatment this pigment will start to fade.
PicoGEN FX targets skin at a deeper level. It’s fantastic for addressing age or scarring concerns like skin texture, loss of elastin, acne scarring as well as being effective on pigmentation.
We add a special end piece to the machine that turns it in to a fractional laser. PicoGEN FX is non-invasive – with little down time compared to more aggressive fractional lasers that have traditionally been on the market.
The fractional laser creates micro wounds in the upper layers of the skin to initiate a repair response – prompting collagen induction and renewal.
​What does a treatment feel like?
Most people describe the feeling like short rubber band snaps against the skin. We can prepare the skin with a topical numbing cream if desired but most clients have found this isn’t necessary and experience a good level of comfort throughout the treatment.
What will my skin be like afterwards?
Immediately post treatment your skin will be red, this is normal and you can cover with makeup if desired. A small number of people experience a response similar to hives which can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines and subsides quickly.
What’s the downtime like?
Following the initial treatment redness will subside and you can carry on as normal using make up etc. Over the following days your skin may be a little sensitive as it begins the repair process – this differs for each person but some experience darkening in areas of pigment that have been treated, dry patches or minor crusting or flaking of the skin which soon sheds to reveal the tighter, brighter skin underneath.
If you have an important event coming up, it’s recommended we factor this in to your treatment plan. Let us know so we can help you plan around this.
​How long until I notice results?
Pico Genesis and PicoGEN FX are powerful advanced laser treatments. The repair response from the skin will take some time to take effect and it is totally normal for skin to appear a little worse before it looks better.
Within 4-6 weeks you will start to enjoy the full results and these improve further over time.
How many treatments will I need?
You will notice a difference in your skin after just one treatment! A course of 2-3 treatments is usually recommended to see optimal results; this may vary depending on your skin concerns and the area we are treating.
We will put together a treatment plan specifically for your skin.
​I have hormonal pigment does Pico Genesis treat this?
This is where it gets really exciting! In most cases yes Pico will effectively target hormonal pigment. There isn’t much on the market for hormonal pigment, a lot of treatments can make it worse! (No thanks!) but the Pico Genesis technology is incredible. It uses gentle non-heating laser making it perfect for pigment that hasn’t been able to be targeted before, including darker skin tones!
​I’m a darker skin ethnicity, is it safe for me?
Yes! We are so excited to bring this advanced laser technology to Pukekohe. There is nothing on the market that will treat pigment on a darker skin tones like the Cutera Enlighten 3 machine and we are proud to have one of only three machines in Auckland.
How much are Pico Genesis and PicoGEN FX treatments?
This will vary based on the area we need to treat and the concern we are treating. Book in for a no obligation skin consult where we will discuss your skin concerns, the areas to be treated and we will put together a treatment plan and cost for you.
​Is it safe?
Absolutely. Cutera is the world’s leader in advanced laser technology and is FDA and CE approved.
We always conduct a thorough consultation to ensure laser is the right treatment for you, and will prepare you with any skin care you might need to use prior to your treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.
​How do I choose which treatment to have?
Book in for your free laser consult so we can discuss the best treatment for your skin concerns.
​Is Pico Genesis and PicoGEN FX right for everyone?
There are only a few contraindications to be aware of with this laser such as being pregnant and some medications. We always start with a free consult to ensure laser is the perfect choice for you.
