Treatment Overview
The Pico Laser is one of the most advanced and popular treatments in Korea for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, acne marks, freckles, sun damage, and overall skin tone correction.
Unlike traditional Q-switched lasers, Pico Lasers deliver ultra-short picosecond pulses (one trillionth of a second) that shatter pigment particles into much finer fragments, allowing the body to clear them more efficiently with less heat damage.
Korean dermatologists frequently recommend Pico Lasers for stubborn pigmentation and patients who have not responded well to Nd:YAG toning, thanks to its precision and lower risk of rebound pigmentation.
Purpose & Benefits
- Advanced PIH Clearance: Breaks pigment into smaller particles than Nd:YAG, promoting faster clearance.
- Minimal Heat Damage: Safer for Asian skin prone to PIH rebound.
- Skin Revitalization: Stimulates collagen remodeling, improving pores and fine lines.
- Versatile: Treats freckles, melasma, tattoos, and acne scarring alongside PIH.
- Quick Recovery: Lower downtime compared to older lasers.
Ideal Candidates
Pico Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with stubborn or recurrent PIH after acne or injury.
- Individuals with mixed pigmentation (epidermal + dermal).
- Adults seeking both pigment removal and skin rejuvenation.
- Those with sensitive or Asian skin types needing lower-risk treatment.
Possible Risks & Complications
Pico Lasers are FDA/KFDA-approved and considered safe, but potential side effects include:
- Redness & Swelling: Mild, usually resolves in 24–48 hours.
- Flaking/Dryness: Light exfoliation as pigmentation lifts.
- Temporary Darkening: Pigment may appear darker before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH rebound or hypopigmentation (minimized with Korean low-energy protocols).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Picosecond Mode (532 nm & 1064 nm): Shatters superficial + deep pigment.
- Fractional Pico: Improves acne scars, pores, and overall texture.
- Multi-Pass Low-Fluence Toning: Gentle, layered passes for Asian skin safety.
Protocol: Typically 3–5 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Maintenance every 6–12 months recommended.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness, tingling.
1–3 Days: Pigment may darken before lightening.
1 Week: Noticeable clarity and smoother texture.
Aftercare Tips:
- Daily SPF 50+ sunscreen use.
- Hydration with creams/serums.
- Avoid retinoids, acids, scrubs for 3–5 days.
- Minimize direct sunlight and saunas during cycles.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Brighter tone, slight pigment lightening.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Clearer skin with reduced PIH.
- After 3–5 Sessions: Major pigment clearance, refined texture.
- Long-Term: Results last 9–12 months; touch-ups needed if new acne causes PIH.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
- Dermatologist assesses PIH depth, skin sensitivity, and prior treatments.
- Pico is chosen for stubborn pigment or acne scarring.
Preparation
- Gentle cleansing and protective eyewear.
- Numbing cream applied if necessary.
Pico Session
- Step 1: 532 nm pulses for surface PIH/freckles.
- Step 2: 1064 nm for deeper acne marks.
- Step 3: Fractional Pico for texture + brightening.
- Duration: 20–30 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
- Cooling mask or healing serum applied.
- Sunscreen before discharge.
Follow-Up
- 3–5 sessions recommended for PIH clearance.
- Often combined with Nd:YAG, Fraxel, or whitening drips for synergy.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Asian-Specific Protocols: Low fluence to avoid PIH rebound.
- Combination Packages: Pico + Nd:YAG, Pico + Rejuran, or Pico + Whitening drips.
- Global Reputation: Seoul dermatology clinics lead in pigmentation safety.
- Affordable Bundles: Multi-session programs cost less than in Western clinics.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 200 – 400
- 3–5 Session Package: USD 900 – 1,800
- Premium Program (Pico + Boosters/Fraxel): USD 1,500 – 3,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Whitening drips (Glutathione/Vit C): USD 100 – 200
- Skin boosters (Rejuran, PN, exosomes): USD 200 – 500
- Calming kits: USD 50 – 100
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic Pico PIH Program (3 sessions): USD 700–1,000
- Advanced Brightening (Pico + Whitening Drips): USD 1,200–1,500
- Premium PIH Program (Pico + Fraxel + Boosters): USD 2,000–3,000
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Pico + Nd:YAG for acne PIH.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Dual Pico programs for freckles + melasma.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Pico + Rejuran/boosters for brightening.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Pico + Fraxel combo for PIH + scars.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium Pico packages with regenerative care.
