PicoWay® vs. Discovery Pico Plus™

Compare PicoWay® and Discovery Pico Plus™ lasers to find out which system delivers safer, faster, and more complete tattoo removal. PicoWay® offers four wavelengths and ultra-short pulses ideal for all skin tones. Discovery Pico Plus™ uses fewer wavelengths and includes nanosecond energy that may increase heat. See which laser excels in comfort, color clearance, and skin safety. Begin your removal journey with advanced technology and expert care.

PicoWay® vs. Discovery Pico Plus™:

Which Laser Delivers Better Tattoo Removal Results?

PicoWay® vs. Discovery Pico Plus™:

Which Laser Is Better for Tattoo Removal?

If you're researching the most advanced tattoo removal lasers, two powerful systems often enter the conversation: Candela’s PicoWay® and Quanta System’s Discovery Pico Plus™. Both use cutting-edge picosecond technology—but the results, safety profile, and clinical versatility tell a very different story.

At Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal in Colorado Springs, we’ve chosen PicoWay® because it delivers faster clearance, more color versatility, and superior skin safety for all Fitzpatrick skin types. Let’s break down the real differences between these two high-end systems so you can make an informed, confident decision.

Best Laser Tattoo Removal Technology in Colorado Springs

Key Differences: What Makes PicoWay® the Safer, Smarter Choice

Shorter Pulses = Greater Precision

PicoWay® delivers ultra-short picosecond pulses that produce a precise photoacoustic effect—shattering ink into finer particles with minimal heat. This allows for faster fading, reduced skin trauma, and a lower risk of scarring or pigmentation issues.

By comparison, Discovery Pico Plus combines picosecond and nanosecond modes, which generate more thermal energy, potentially leading to post-treatment inflammation, discomfort, and longer recovery times—especially on sensitive or darker skin.

More Wavelengths = More Ink Cleared

PicoWay® features four true wavelengths (532, 730, 785, and 1064 nm), allowing precise targeting of all tattoo ink colors, including difficult pigments such as green, yellow, red, and multi-layered designs.

Discovery Pico Plus provides three wavelengths; however, its 694 nm Ruby laser increases the risk for darker skin tones and lacks the same versatility and safety when treating complex, colorful, or faded tattoos.

All Skin Tones, Safely Treated

One of PicoWay®’s standout advantages is its FDA clearance for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI), meaning it has been clinically validated to perform safely and effectively on every complexion—from very light to deeply pigmented skin. PicoWay®’s ultra-short picosecond pulses generate minimal heat, which significantly reduces irritation, inflammation, and the risk of unwanted side effects. This controlled energy delivery helps protect melanin-producing cells, making it far less likely to trigger hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or textural changes. For clients with melanin-rich or sensitivity-prone skin, this level of safety and consistency allows for a more predictable, comfortable treatment experience with faster recovery and improved satisfaction.

Discovery Pico Plus, while powerful and capable of delivering strong results in certain scenarios, requires substantially more caution when used on darker skin—particularly because of the Ruby 694 nm wavelength. This wavelength is known to carry a higher risk of overheating the epidermis, which can lead to burns, blistering, or pigment disruption in Fitzpatrick IV–VI clients. The increased thermal effect also means practitioners must take more conservative settings and longer intervals between treatments, often slowing progress and reducing efficiency. As a result, Discovery Pico Plus is less universally safe and typically not the preferred option for patients who need gentle, melanin-friendly care and reliable outcomes across all skin types.

Trusted, Proven, Preferred

Candela’s PicoWay® system is trusted by leading dermatologists, medical spas, and laser clinics around the world, supported by extensive clinical research, long-term safety data, and widespread professional adoption. Its proven effectiveness across multiple treatment categories—including tattoo removal, pigmentation correction, acne scar remodeling, and wrinkle reduction—makes it one of the most versatile and respected platforms in the aesthetic industry. PicoWay®’s reputation is built on consistent results, advanced engineering, and a strong track record of delivering skin-safe outcomes for patients of every complexion. Because it performs reliably in both clinical studies and real-world practice, it has become a top choice for providers who prioritize patient safety, treatment efficiency, and long-term satisfaction.

Discovery Pico Plus is more commonly found in clinics throughout Europe and Asia, where different device regulations and market adoption patterns influence purchasing decisions. However, it has considerably less adoption within U.S.-based medical aesthetics, partly due to its more limited safety data across diverse skin types and fewer large-scale clinical studies validating its use. While capable in certain applications, Discovery Pico Plus does not offer the same breadth of evidence, global standardization, or provider confidence that PicoWay® has established over time. For practices focused on delivering predictable, inclusive, and widely verified laser outcomes, PicoWay® remains the more trusted and clinically supported choice.

Why Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal Chooses PicoWay®

At Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal, we don’t just remove ink—we help people reclaim confidence in their skin. That’s why we’ve committed to using only the most advanced technology that meets our high clinical standards. We exclusively use the PicoWay® laser system by Candela, a globally trusted device known for its safety, speed, and precision. PicoWay® stands out with its four true wavelengths (532, 730, 785, and 1064 nm), allowing us to treat virtually every ink color—from stubborn reds and greens to complex, layered tattoos. Its ultra-short picosecond pulses generate less heat than traditional lasers, resulting in faster ink clearance, shorter recovery times, and reduced risk of scarring or pigmentation issues.

In addition to unmatched tattoo removal capabilities, PicoWay® offers the versatility to treat skin conditions like pigmentation, acne scars, and wrinkles—making it a powerful all-in-one solution. It’s FDA-cleared for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI), making it one of the safest lasers on the market for patients with darker skin. At Mountain Edge, we’ve chosen PicoWay® because it delivers consistent results in fewer sessions, with greater comfort and safety for every client. When your skin matters, trust the technology that’s proven to perform.

Our Differentiators: Why Patients Trust Mountain Edge

Choosing where to go for tattoo removal is just as important as choosing how it’s done. Here’s why clients across Colorado trust Mountain Edge: Medically Supervised Expertise, Better Technology = Better Results, Real Results. Honest Expectations, Skin-First Approach

Medically Supervised Expertise

Your treatments at Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal are performed in a clinical-grade environment designed to meet the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Every session is overseen by trained and experienced specialists who are deeply knowledgeable in skin health, laser physics, and proper treatment protocols. This level of expertise ensures that each laser pulse is calibrated with precision, minimizing risk and maximizing results. By combining advanced training with a controlled, medical setting, we’re able to provide safe, consistent, and effective tattoo removal that prioritizes both your skin’s health and your long-term satisfaction.

Better Technology = Better Results

At Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal, we didn’t settle for “standard” technology or basic results. Instead, we made a deliberate choice to invest in the most advanced laser platform available—the Candela PicoWay® system. This cutting-edge technology allows us to provide superior tattoo removal outcomes, including fewer total sessions, more thorough ink clearance, and significantly reduced downtime between treatments. By choosing PicoWay®, we ensure that our patients benefit from the latest innovations in laser science—delivering faster, safer, and more comfortable results that far exceed what traditional systems can offer.

Real Results. Honest Expectations.

From your very first free consultation to your final laser session, our team at Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal is dedicated to providing a transparent and honest experience every step of the way. We take the time to fully explain your treatment options, outline realistic outcomes, and answer every question with clarity and care. You’ll never feel rushed, pressured, or left in the dark. Unlike some providers who overpromise quick fixes or try to upsell extra sessions, we focus solely on what’s necessary to achieve your goals. Our commitment is simple: genuine guidance, ethical treatment planning, and results you can trust.

Skin-First Approach

At Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal, we’re not just focused on erasing ink—we’re committed to your long-term skin health and overall well-being. Tattoo removal is a journey, and we approach it with the care and foresight it deserves. Using the PicoWay® laser system, we ensure each treatment is as gentle on your skin as it is effective on your ink. Our priority is to deliver results that leave your skin clear, healthy, and beautiful—not compromised or damaged. By focusing on both the outcome and the integrity of your skin, we help you move forward with confidence that lasts far beyond your final session.

The Risks of Choosing Outdated Laser Technology

Many budget-friendly or high-volume tattoo removal clinics still rely on Q-switched lasers, primarily because of their lower upfront cost. However, those savings often come at your expense. These older systems typically cause more pain during and after treatment, require more sessions due to slower ink fading, and carry a higher risk of side effects like blistering, scarring, or hyperpigmentation—especially on sensitive skin or darker tones.

They also struggle with bright or resistant ink colors, leading to disappointing results. That’s why at Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal, we believe technology should never be compromised—and we exclusively use the PicoWay® system to deliver the safest, most effective results possible.

Experience the Future of Tattoo Removal at Mountain Edge

Don’t settle for outdated laser technology and one-size-fits-all treatments. With the PicoWay® laser and the dedicated team at Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal, you get a smarter, safer, and faster path to clear skin.

Whether you’re looking for full tattoo removal, fading for a cover-up, or spot treatments, we tailor every experience to your needs—with cutting-edge science and compassionate care.

👉 Book your free consultation today and experience why Mountain Edge is Colorado’s leader in advanced laser tattoo removal.

Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal — Confidence, Uncovered.

Start with a Free Tattoo Removal Assessment

You’ve evolved—now your tattoo can too. We're here to make the removal process smooth, straightforward, and stress-free. Start with a free assessment and get expert advice tailored to your unique ink and goals.

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7150 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80920, USA

Phone: (719) 888-4247

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Jeffrey Winzenried
Jeffrey Winzenried
Founder & Content Specialist, Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal

Jeffrey brings a deep passion for skin aesthetics and laser science to his writing. Every article is carefully researched to provide clear, trustworthy, and actionable insights for those seeking tattoo removal.
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