Treatment Overview
The PicoSure Laser (by Cynosure) is the world’s first picosecond aesthetic laser, operating at 755 nm Alexandrite and 532 nm wavelengths. It delivers ultra-short pulses in trillionths of a second, breaking down melanin clusters with minimal heat damage.
In Korea, the PicoSure Laser is a popular choice for freckles removal, sunspots, PIH, and mixed pigmentation. It is particularly valued for its safety in Asian skin types, where reducing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is critical. Beyond pigment clearance, PicoSure also stimulates collagen and elastin remodeling, providing added benefits such as pore reduction, skin brightening, and rejuvenation.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (PicoSure, PicoPlus, PicoCare, Nd:YAG Toning, Dual Toning, Fraxel Dual, Clear + Brilliant, Carbon Peel, CO₂):
- PicoSure: Best for freckles + rejuvenation + glow.
- PicoPlus: Best for mixed-depth freckles + resistant pigment.
- PicoCare: Best for freckles + PIH + scars.
- Nd:YAG Toning: Best for dermal pigmentation.
- Dual Toning: Best for freckles + multi-layer pigment.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for freckles + sun damage + wrinkles.
- Clear + Brilliant: Best for mild freckles and prevention.
- Carbon Peel: Best for freckles + oil control.
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for freckles + scars + texture.
Purpose & Benefits
- Freckles Reduction: Efficiently shatters pigment particles for clearance.
- Low PIH Risk: Safer for Asian skin due to low thermal effect.
- Dual Function: Treats pigmentation while rejuvenating skin.
- Collagen Boost: Improves texture, pores, and early wrinkles.
- Radiance Effect: Brightens skin tone and enhances glow.
- Minimal Downtime: Faster recovery than ablative lasers.
Ideal Candidates
PicoSure Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with freckles or sun-induced pigmentation.
- Patients with recurrent freckles or pigmentation resistant to IPL.
- Individuals seeking freckles clearance + skin rejuvenation benefits.
Treatment Comparison:
- PicoSure: Best for freckles + rejuvenation + radiance.
- PicoPlus: Best for freckles + mixed pigmentation.
- PicoCare: Best for freckles + PIH + scars.
- Nd:YAG Toning: Best for deeper pigment.
- Dual Toning: Best for multi-layer freckles.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for freckles + photoaging + texture repair.
- Clear + Brilliant: Best for mild freckles or maintenance.
- Carbon Peel: Best for freckles + glow + oily skin.
Possible Risks & Complications
The PicoSure Laser is safe and FDA/KFDA-approved, but mild side effects may include:
- Temporary Redness or Warmth: Fades in a few hours.
- Mild Flaking/Dryness: Normal exfoliation after treatment.
- Temporary Darkening of Freckles: Before they fade.
- Rare Risks: PIH or uneven tone (rare with expert Korean protocols).
Surgical Techniques Used
- 755 nm Alexandrite: Targets melanin clusters effectively.
- 532 nm Wavelength: For superficial freckles and surface pigment.
- Focus Lens Array: Optional handpiece for collagen remodeling.
- Protocol: 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart; maintenance every 6–12 months as needed.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness and tingling.
- 1–3 Days: Freckles may darken slightly before fading.
- 1 Week: Brighter skin tone and visible freckles reduction.
Aftercare Tips:
- Daily SPF 50+ sunscreen to prevent recurrence.
- Use hydrating creams and soothing serums.
- Avoid retinoids, acids, and scrubs for 3–5 days.
- Minimize direct sun exposure during treatment cycles.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Fresher skin and initial freckles fading.
- Short-Term (2–3 Sessions): Noticeable lightening of freckles.
- Medium-Term (3–5 Sessions): Significant pigment clearance with glow.
- Long-Term: Results last 6–12 months; maintenance treatments may be required.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Assess freckles depth and pigment type.
- Preparation – Cleansing, protective eyewear, numbing cream if needed.
- PicoSure Session – Picosecond pulses delivered to freckles.
- Post-Care: Cooling mask, hydrating or whitening serums.
- Follow-Up: Multi-session plan, often combined with boosters or toning.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea is a leader in PicoSure protocols for freckles and pigmentation.
- Dermatologists specialize in safe, low-energy protocols for Asian skin.
- More affordable compared to Western treatments.
- Clinics combine PicoSure with Nd:YAG, Dual Toning, or skin boosters (Rejuran, PN, exosomes) for stronger results.
- Seoul is internationally recognized for pigmentation correction and skin rejuvenation programs.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (full face): USD 250 – 450
- 3–5 Session Package: USD 1,000 – 2,000
- Premium Package (PicoSure + Boosters/Combination): USD 1,500 – 3,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Rejuran, exosomes, PN boosters, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 The PicoSure Laser is often called a “rejuvenating freckles eraser” in Korea because it not only removes freckles but also revitalizes the skin for a clearer, younger-looking complexion.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): PicoSure freckles removal + boosters.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): PicoSure + Nd:YAG for pigment and freckles.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): PicoSure fractional mode for freckles + texture.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): PicoSure + Dual Toning for resistant freckles.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium PicoSure pigmentation + anti-aging programs.
