Acne Scar Treatment · Pico Laser

Pico Laser for Acne Scars and Marks in Mount Gravatt, Brisbane

Pico laser uses ultra-short pulses to improve mild scarring and brown marks with very little downtime.

Specialist consultations from $395 · No referral needed to book · Treatment costs confirmed in writing before you start · See fees

TreatsMild scarring and brown marks
SessionsUsually 4–6, 6 weeks apart
DowntimeRedness for a few hours
SURFACEDERMISFAT
1Ultra-short laser pulses2Tiny renewal zones under the surface3Texture gradually refines
Illustration: how pico laser treats mild scarring
DERM

A dermatologist-led clinic, founded by Dr Mitch Robinson, FACD, who teaches laser to dermatologists and registrars and has fellowship training in complex scarring.

Meet Dr Mitch

Pico Laser for Acne Scars at a Glance

TreatsMild scarring, texture and brown marks
DevicePicoSure Pro
TakesAbout 20–30 minutes
SessionsUsually 4–6, 6 weeks apart
RecoveryMild redness for a few hours
Skin typesSuits most, with settings for your skin

What Pico Laser Treats

Pico laser is a gentle option in our acne scar treatment plans. It suits mild scarring and brown marks, and works well as a finishing step after stronger treatments.

It won't lift deep scars, and we'll tell you honestly if another treatment would do more for your skin.

  • Mild, shallow scarring and rough texture
  • Brown marks after acne (post-inflammatory pigmentation)
  • Uneven tone alongside scarring

Pico Laser and TCA CROSS for Mild Scars in Asian Skin

For mild acne scarring in Asian skin, Dr Mitch often combines pico laser with TCA CROSS. Pico laser refines texture and tone across the area, while TCA CROSS treats individual narrow scars. Both are gentle on the skin surface, which lowers the risk of dark patches compared with more aggressive resurfacing.

This combination usually takes 4 to 6 sessions, spaced 6 weeks apart.

  • Mild ice pick and boxcar scarring
  • Rough texture and enlarged pores
  • Brown marks alongside scarring

How Pico Laser Works

We use PicoSure Pro with a focusing lens for scars and texture.

1

Pulses are delivered

The laser fires pulses lasting trillionths of a second.

2

Renewal under the surface

A focusing lens concentrates the energy into tiny points beneath the skin, triggering renewal without breaking the surface.

3

Gradual refinement

Texture and tone improve over a course of sessions as collagen remodels and pigment clears.

What to Expect

There is little to no downtime.

On the day

  • A snapping sensation, often with cooling
  • About 20 to 30 minutes
  • No numbing needed for most people

Recovery

  • Mild redness for a few hours
  • Makeup usually the next day
  • Daily sunscreen between sessions
  • Improvement builds across the course

Often Combined With

Pico laser pairs well with treatments for red marks and deeper scars.

TCA CROSS

  • For narrow individual scars
  • Combined with pico in Asian skin
Learn about TCA CROSS →

DermaV Laser

  • For red marks after acne
  • Can alternate with pico
Learn about DermaV Laser →

Subcision

  • For rolling scars
  • Pico refines afterwards
Learn about Subcision →

Risks and Side Effects

All procedures carry risks. Suitability, recovery and results vary between individuals.

Possible side effects

  • Redness and swelling
  • Temporary darkening or lightening of the skin
  • Rarely, pinpoint bleeding or blistering

Lowering the risk

  • Avoiding tanning before treatment
  • Settings chosen for your skin type
  • Sun protection between sessions

Common Questions

Pico Laser for Acne Scars: Common Questions

Will pico laser fix deep acne scars?

No. It suits mild scarring and marks. Deeper scars need subcision, TCA CROSS, punch techniques or CO2 laser.

How many pico sessions will I need?

Usually 4 to 6, spaced 6 weeks apart, often combined with TCA CROSS for mild scarring in Asian skin.

Is pico laser suitable for darker skin?

Often yes, with appropriate settings. We assess this at consultation.

Is there any downtime?

Very little. Most people have mild redness for a few hours.

Can pico laser treat red marks?

Red marks respond better to vascular laser such as DermaV. Pico is better for brown marks.

How much does pico laser cost?

It depends on the area and number of sessions. You get a written quote after your consultation.

Find Out What Will Work for Your Scars

Book a consultation with Dr Mitch. He'll name your scar types, explain what treatment can and can't do, and give you a written plan with the total cost before you decide.

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Clinical content overseen by Dr Mitch Robinson, FACD (AHPRA MED0001946771). Updated October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. All procedures carry risks; suitability, recovery and results vary between individuals.