Treatment Overview
Pico Toning is a Korean dermatology protocol that uses picosecond laser technology for skin brightening, pigmentation treatment, and tattoo removal. Unlike older nanosecond Q-Switched lasers, Pico Toning delivers ultra-short pulses (trillionths of a second) that generate a photoacoustic effect, shattering pigment and tattoo ink particles into microscopic fragments.
In Korea, Pico Toning for Tattoo Removal is often recommended for patients seeking a gentler approach with less downtime compared to ablative methods. It not only clears tattoos but also improves skin quality around the tattoo area, reducing risks of scarring and pigmentation imbalance — especially important for Asian skin types prone to PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Pigmentation / Tattoo Removal family (Pico Toning, PicoSure, Discovery Pico, PicoPlus, Q-Switched Nd:YAG):
- Pico Toning: Best for pigmentation + small/medium tattoos + tone improvement.
- PicoSure: Best for resistant tattoos (blue/green) + rejuvenation.
- Discovery Pico: Best for large/multi-colored tattoos.
- PicoPlus: Best for safe tattoo clearance + dual wavelengths.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG: Best for black/blue tattoos + melasma.
Purpose & Benefits
- Tattoo Removal: Fades and clears tattoos safely over multiple sessions.
- Pigment Precision: Targets ink without harming surrounding skin.
- Skin Tone Refinement: Improves clarity and evenness around tattoo area.
- Scar Prevention: Lower risk of tissue damage compared to older lasers.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Minimizes risk of hyperpigmentation.
- Dual Action: Tattoo clearance + rejuvenation effect.
Ideal Candidates
Pico Toning Tattoo Removal in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with small to medium tattoos in black, blue, red, or multicolor.
- Individuals who want tattoo fading plus skin brightening/rejuvenation.
- Adults seeking minimal downtime and lower risk of scarring.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- Pico Toning: Best for tattoos + skin tone improvement.
- PicoSure: Best for resistant multi-colored tattoos.
- Discovery Pico: Best for large or stubborn tattoos.
- PicoPlus: Best for safe multi-color clearance + dual wavelengths.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG: Best for older dark tattoos.
Possible Risks & Complications
Pico Toning is very safe, but mild temporary effects may occur:
- Redness & Warmth: Lasts 1–2 days.
- Frosting Effect: Temporary whitening of tattoo site.
- Scabbing or Flaking: Common as ink particles rise to surface.
- Rare Risks: Hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, or blistering (rare in expert care).
Surgical Techniques Used
Pico Toning uses picosecond laser pulses with multi-depth targeting:
- Photoacoustic Energy: Breaks pigment into microscopic particles.
- 1064 nm Wavelength: For black, blue, and deep pigments.
- 532 nm Wavelength: For red, orange, and superficial pigments.
- Protocol: 5–10 sessions spaced 6–8 weeks apart depending on tattoo size, color, and depth.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Whitening/frosting, redness, slight swelling.
- 1–3 Days: Temporary scabbing or crusting.
- 1–2 Weeks: Tattoo fades gradually, skin texture improves.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply healing ointment regularly.
- Avoid scratching or picking scabs.
- Use SPF 50+ on treated area daily.
- Avoid hot baths, swimming, and strong sun until healed.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Visible tattoo fading.
- Short-Term (2–3 Sessions): Significant reduction of ink visibility.
- Medium-Term (5–7 Sessions): Most tattoos cleared or substantially faded.
- Long-Term: Resistant pigments may need touch-ups.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor evaluates tattoo type, colors, and size.
- Preparation – Cleansing, application of numbing cream.
- Pico Toning Session – Picosecond pulses delivered across tattooed area.
- Post-Care: Cooling, ointment, and protective covering if necessary.
- Follow-Up: Multi-session plan recommended for full clearance.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea specializes in Pico Toning protocols for tattoo removal + skin rejuvenation.
- Clinics use latest-generation FDA/KFDA-approved Pico systems.
- Dermatologists are skilled in treating Asian skin tattoos with minimal PIH risk.
- More affordable than Western tattoo removal packages.
- Seoul offers signature “Pico Toning Glow + Tattoo Removal” programs.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Pico Toning Tattoo Removal in Korea:
- Small Tattoo (per session): USD 80 – 150
- Medium Tattoo (per session): USD 150 – 300
- Large Tattoo (per session): USD 300 – 600
- Package (5–10 sessions): USD 800 – 3,500 depending on tattoo size & color complexity
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN boosters, Healing infusions): USD 100 – 400
💡 Pico Toning is often referred to in Korea as “the brightening tattoo removal laser”, since it clears tattoos while also improving skin tone and texture.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Pico Toning for tattoos + brightening.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Specialized Pico Toning protocols for tattoos + pigmentation.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Tattoo removal with Pico Toning + boosters.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Pico Toning + Rejuran for healing & glow.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium Pico Toning tattoo removal + regenerative care.
