Cutera's Pico Genesis safely and effectively reduces and removes signs of hyperpigmentation.
Pico Genesis is a non-invasive laser treatment that helps fade pigmentation concerns such as sunspots, freckles, melasma, and post-inflammatory discolouration. It works to gradually brighten the complexion and create a more even skin tone over time, with minimal downtime.
Effective at improving uneven skin tone due to sun exposure, Pico Genesis assists in the often chronic inflammatory condition melasma, in addition to resolving post-inflammatory skin discolourations that can remain following breakouts or other skin traumas. Pico Genesis is for all skin types, including darker skin tones.
Pico Genesis may be recommended for treating unwanted pigmentation with minimal downtime, while Pico Genesis FX targets both pigmentation and textural concerns, such as scarring and large pores, with a longer recovery period.
Pico Genesis delivers rapid, low-energy pulses of laser light into the skin using a specialised handpiece. This energy targets unwanted pigment and encourages natural skin renewal. Over time, this can help brighten areas of discolouration and refine the skin’s texture, tone, and clarity.
Sometimes likened to the sensation of ‘electric rain’ on the face. Intense ‘snapping’ feelings can occur but are rare and will dissipate within seconds.
To ensure the best possible outcome from your Pico Genesis FX treatment, please follow the guidelines below:
The treatment area must be free of natural and artificial tan.
If you are prone to cold sores, consider using an over-the-counter antiviral prophylactic.
Discontinue topical Vitamin A (retinol) products for up to two weeks before treatment.
A skin cancer check must have been completed within the last twelve months.
To help minimise swelling or itchiness, you may take two Telfast and two Claratyne daily, starting two days before your appointment.
For the first five days post-treatment, or until all post-treatment skin reactions have fully settled, it’s important to support your skin with the following care:
Use only a gentle cleanser morning and night.
Apply a moisturiser or your prescribed post-treatment product as directed.
Avoid direct sun exposure. When outdoors, wear a broad-brimmed hat and apply (and reapply) SPF 50 sunscreen throughout the day.
Refrain from vigorous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, or any heat-based wellness treatments for at least 48 hours.
Continue taking two Telfast and two Claratyne daily until visible responses have subsided.
Following these guidelines will help optimise your results and support a smooth recovery.
Downtime typically lasts around five to seven days. During this time, you may experience:
Moderate to significant redness is commonly experienced immediately after treatment.
Redness may persist for up to five to seven days.
Treated pigment may darken before fading over seven to fourteen days.
A mild to moderate histamine response (itchiness or small bumps) may occur and can last up to ten days.
Your clinician will follow up after your first session, and we encourage you to contact the clinic if you experience any responses that are outside of the expected range.
Results, downtime and treatment response will vary from person to person.
Pico Genesis may not be suitable if any of the following apply:
Pregnancy
Use of certain medications, including oral isotretinoin, corticosteroids, blood thinners, or photosensitising drugs.
Immune-compromised conditions (e.g. HIV, lupus, scleroderma).
History of light sensitivity or previous reactions to light-based treatments.
Presence of active cold sores, skin cancer, infections, open wounds, or burns.
History of keloid formation, excessive scarring, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Cosmetic injectables within the past two weeks.
Inability to tolerate discomfort or commit to downtime.
To address specific concerns, a course of three treatments is typically recommended at six–week intervals, followed by a review. Your clinician will determine the most appropriate number and spacing of sessions based on your individual skin goals.
To maintain results, treatments may be recommended every three to six months, particularly in cases of recurring pigmentation such as melasma. Your clinician may suggest alternative or supportive therapies to maintain long-term outcomes.
In addition to not proceeding with Pico Genesis FX, alternative treatments may include IPL, Laser Genesis, Q-Switch, Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, chemical peels, or topical and oral therapies. Your clinician will guide you through the most appropriate options and ensure expectations are aligned with what this procedure can reasonably achieve.
The path to gorgeous skin
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We’ll talk, and find out all about you and your skin; its history, its concerns and where you want to take it next.
We’ll create a plan
Once we’ve got the full story, we’ll create a treatment and homecare plan tailored to you.
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