Treatment Overview
The PicoCare Laser (by Wontech, Korea) is an advanced picosecond laser system that delivers ultra-short pulses (trillionths of a second) to shatter pigment particles into tiny fragments with minimal heat damage. Unlike nanosecond Q-Switched lasers, PicoCare provides faster, safer, and more precise melanin clearance, making it especially effective for stubborn melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Asian skin types.
In Korea, the PicoCare Laser is widely used for mixed or resistant melasma cases that do not fully respond to Nd:YAG toning or IPL. Its picosecond energy not only targets melanin but also stimulates collagen remodeling, improving both pigmentation and skin texture.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (PicoCare, PicoPlus, PicoSure, Nd:YAG Toning, Dual Toning, Gold Toning, Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, CO₂):
- PicoCare: Best for stubborn/resistant melasma + PIH + scars.
- PicoPlus: Best for multi-wavelength melasma and tattoos.
- PicoSure: Best for melasma + rejuvenation.
- Nd:YAG Toning: Best for dermal melasma.
- Dual Toning: Best for multi-layer melasma.
- Gold Toning: Best for vascular-linked melasma.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for melasma + sun damage/texture.
- Clear + Brilliant: Best for mild melasma and prevention.
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for melasma with scars/texture (used cautiously).
Purpose & Benefits
- Melasma Lightening: Breaks down stubborn melanin clusters.
- PIH Reduction: Effective for post-acne or post-inflammatory pigmentation.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Minimal risk of rebound pigmentation.
- Collagen Remodeling: Improves skin elasticity and texture.
- Pore & Scar Refinement: Fractional handpiece helps reduce scars and pores.
- Longer-Lasting Results: Slows melasma recurrence when combined with toning.
Ideal Candidates
PicoCare Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with resistant or recurrent melasma.
- Patients with PIH, café-au-lait spots, or mixed pigmentation.
- Individuals who want faster pigment clearance with minimal downtime.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- PicoCare: Best for resistant melasma + PIH + scarring.
- PicoPlus: Best for multi-layer and stubborn melasma.
- PicoSure: Best for pigment + rejuvenation.
- Nd:YAG: Best for standard dermal melasma.
- Dual Toning: Best for multi-layer melasma control.
- Gold Toning: Best for vascular melasma.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for melasma + texture + UV damage.
- Clear + Brilliant: Best for mild or maintenance melasma.
Possible Risks & Complications
PicoCare is safe and FDA/KFDA-approved, but mild side effects may include:
- Redness or Warmth: Temporary, resolves within hours.
- Dryness or Flaking: Short-lived skin renewal.
- Temporary Pigment Darkening: Common before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH or hypopigmentation (rare in Korean clinics with cautious settings).
Surgical Techniques Used
PicoCare Laser uses picosecond technology with multiple wavelengths:
- 1064 nm: Treats deep dermal pigment and melasma.
- 532 nm: Targets superficial epidermal pigment.
- Fractional Handpiece: Improves scars, pores, and texture while supporting melasma care.
- Protocol: 3–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart; maintenance every 6–12 months for recurrent melasma.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness or tingling.
- 1–3 Days: Temporary darkening or micro-crusting of pigment.
- 1–2 Weeks: Noticeable lightening of melasma.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily (mandatory for melasma).
- Use hydrating creams and serums to maintain barrier health.
- Avoid picking at crusts or scabs.
- Avoid retinoids, acids, or scrubs for 3–5 days.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Subtle brightening and tone clarity.
- Short-Term (2–3 Sessions): Visible fading of melasma patches.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Sessions): Significant improvement in pigmentation and texture.
- Long-Term: Results last 6–12 months; maintenance sessions may be needed for chronic melasma.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor evaluates melasma type (epidermal, dermal, or mixed).
- Preparation – Cleansing, protective eyewear, numbing cream if needed.
- PicoCare Session – Picosecond pulses delivered to melasma-affected areas.
- Post-Care: Cooling mask, hydration boosters, or antioxidant serums.
- Follow-Up: Multi-session program tailored for melasma stabilization.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea is the home of PicoCare technology, ensuring top expertise.
- Dermatologists are highly skilled in resistant melasma treatment for Asian skin.
- Clinics combine PicoCare with Nd:YAG, Gold Toning, or Dual Toning for better outcomes.
- More affordable than Western melasma treatments.
- Seoul is internationally known for pigmentation and melasma programs with advanced lasers.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for PicoCare Laser in Korea:
- Single Session (full face): USD 200 – 400
- 3–6 Session Package: USD 800 – 2,000
- Premium Package (PicoCare + Nd:YAG/Gold Toning + Boosters): USD 1,200 – 3,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, Rejuran, PN boosters, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 The PicoCare Laser is often called “the stubborn melasma eraser” in Korea, because of its ability to treat recurrent or resistant pigmentation safely and effectively.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): PicoCare + toning for resistant melasma.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): PicoCare for mixed and recurrent pigmentation.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): PicoCare fractional + boosters for melasma + scars.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): PicoCare + Gold Toning for vascular melasma.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium PicoCare melasma programs with regenerative add-ons.
