Treatment Overview
The PicoLO Laser is a picosecond Nd:YAG laser system (532 nm + 1064 nm) widely used in Korean dermatology for advanced pigmentation treatments. Delivering ultra-short pulses measured in trillionths of a second, it breaks melanin into fine particles through a photoacoustic effect rather than heat, significantly reducing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
In Korea, PicoLO is highly regarded for its ability to treat freckles, sunspots, PIH, melasma, and overall skin dullness. It is often combined with brightening serums, whitening drips, or regenerative boosters to enhance results, making it one of the most popular choices for patients seeking clearer, brighter skin with minimal downtime.
Purpose & Benefits
- Efficient Pigment Clearance: Shatters melanin clusters for faster fading of spots.
- Dual Wavelengths: 532 nm for superficial pigment (freckles, sunspots), 1064 nm for deeper lesions (melasma, dermal PIH).
- Low PIH Risk: Minimal thermal damage, ideal for Asian and darker skin tones.
- Skin Brightening & Glow: Improves overall clarity, radiance, and tone.
- Texture Refinement: Stimulates collagen for smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Ideal Candidates
PicoLO Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with freckles, lentigines, sunspots, or solar damage.
- Those with melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Individuals seeking faster, more efficient pigment clearance compared to traditional Q-switched lasers.
- Patients prone to PIH who need safer, low-heat treatments.
- Anyone wanting both pigment reduction and skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Redness & Swelling: Mild, temporary, usually fades in hours to 1–2 days.
- Darkening of Pigmented Spots: Expected healing stage before spots flake or fade.
- Flaking or Crusting: May occur as pigment sheds naturally.
- Rare Risks: PIH rebound if aftercare or sun protection is neglected.
- Temporary Sensitivity: Skin may feel drier or more sensitive for a few days.
Surgical Techniques Used
- 532 nm Wavelength: Targets superficial pigment like freckles and sunspots.
- 1064 nm Wavelength: Reaches deeper pigment including melasma and PIH.
- Picosecond Pulses: Photoacoustic energy breaks melanin into micro-fragments.
- Spot + Full-Face Toning: Spot treatment for visible lesions + multi-pass toning for overall brightening.
- Combination Therapy: Often paired with whitening drips, exosomes, or V-Beam for comprehensive care.
- Protocol: Typically 3–6 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness or warmth, usually subsides quickly.
- 1–3 Days: Pigmented spots may darken.
- 3–7 Days: Spots flake off or fade; skin feels smoother.
- 1–2 Weeks: Noticeable brightening and more even tone.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily, reapply often.
- Avoid hot saunas, baths, and intense exercise for 48 hours.
- Use gentle, hydrating skincare (avoid acids, retinoids for several days).
- Keep skin moisturized with soothing creams.
- Do not pick at darkened or crusted areas.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Fresher glow, slight pigment fading.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Visible reduction in freckles, sunspots, and PIH.
- After 4–6 Sessions: Significant pigment clearance, smoother tone, improved glow.
- Long-Term: Results last months to years with good sun protection; touch-ups every 6–12 months are common.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Consultation & Skin Analysis
- Dermatologist evaluates pigmentation type and depth (epidermal vs dermal).
- Custom protocols designed for freckles vs melasma vs PIH.
2. Preparation
- Gentle cleansing of the skin.
- Application of numbing cream (optional, depending on sensitivity).
- Protective eyewear for patient and practitioner.
3. PicoLO Laser Session
- Step 1: Spot-by-spot laser passes on pigmented lesions.
- Step 2: Full-face multi-pass toning for overall brightening.
- Step 3: Cooling mask, antioxidants, or whitening infusion applied.
- Duration: 20–30 minutes.
4. Post-Treatment Care in Clinic
- Soothing cream and SPF applied before discharge.
- Optional LED or cooling therapy for comfort.
5. Follow-Up
- 3–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
- Often combined with whitening programs or regenerative boosters for enhanced results.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Advanced Pigment Protocols: Tailored for Asian skin, minimizing PIH risks.
- Combination-Oriented Care: PicoLO often paired with whitening drips, V-Beam, or Rejuran boosters.
- Multi-Functional Results: Improves both pigmentation and skin rejuvenation.
- Affordable Packages: Lower cost for multi-session programs compared to Western countries.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 200 – 400
- 3–6 Session Package: USD 700 – 1,600
- Premium Program (PicoLO + Whitening Drips + Regenerative Boosters): USD 1,500 – 3,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Vitamin C, TXA, Glutathione infusions): USD 100 – 200
- Boosters (PRP, Rejuran, Exosomes): USD 200 – 600
- LED or Cooling Mask Therapy: USD 30 – 80
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: PicoLO for freckles and melasma.
- Banobagi Dermatology: PicoLO combined with whitening drips for stubborn pigment.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: PicoLO with antioxidant serums for brightening.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Multi-pass PicoLO for PIH and sunspots.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium PicoLO programs with regenerative boosters.
