Treatment Overview
PicoLO Laser is a next-generation picosecond laser system developed in Korea, designed specifically for pigmentation, tattoo removal, and congenital pigmented lesions such as birthmarks. It works by delivering ultra-short picosecond pulses (one trillionth of a second) that shatter melanin pigment into microscopic particles, which are then naturally eliminated by the body.
Because PicoLO uses extremely short pulses, it generates less heat than nanosecond lasers, reducing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Asian skin. This makes it a preferred choice in Korean dermatology for safe, effective birthmark removal, including congenital pigmented nevi, café-au-lait spots, and nevus of Ota.
Purpose & Benefits
- Birthmark Removal: Targets and fragments pigment clusters in congenital and acquired birthmarks.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Low thermal effect minimizes risk of PIH rebound.
- Fast Clearance: Breaks pigment into finer particles than Q-switched lasers, allowing faster fading.
- Skin Rejuvenation Bonus: Stimulates collagen, improving skin texture around treated areas.
- Minimal Downtime: Gentle treatment compared to older pigment lasers.
Ideal Candidates
PicoLO Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with pigmented birthmarks (café-au-lait spots, nevus of Ota, Becker’s nevus).
- Individuals with stubborn or recurrent pigmentation not responding to older lasers.
- Patients who want faster clearance with lower risk of scarring.
- Adults and children (under specialist care) with benign pigmented lesions.
Possible Risks & Complications
PicoLO Laser is safe under expert Korean protocols, but potential side effects include:
- Temporary Redness & Warmth: Resolves within hours to a day.
- Mild Swelling or Sensitivity: Subside within 1–2 days.
- Temporary Darkening of Pigment: Treated area may darken before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH or hypopigmentation if settings are too strong (minimized in Korea with conservative protocols).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Picosecond Wavelengths (532 nm & 1064 nm):
- 532 nm for superficial pigmented lesions.
- 1064 nm for deeper dermal birthmarks.
- Fractional Pico Mode: Improves skin texture and helps with large or resistant lesions.
- Multi-Pass Treatments: Gradual clearance while protecting surrounding skin.
Protocol: Typically 4–8 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, depending on birthmark type and depth.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness, tingling, or warmth.
1–3 Days: Pigment darkens slightly, then begins to fade.
1–2 Weeks: Lightening of the treated birthmark becomes noticeable.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
- Use hydrating and soothing creams.
- Avoid strong exfoliants, acids, and retinoids for 5–7 days.
- Protect skin from direct sunlight and heat exposure.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Mild lightening of superficial pigment.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable fading of birthmarks.
- After 4–6 Sessions: Significant clearance of many pigmented lesions.
- Long-Term: Many birthmarks are permanently improved or cleared; resistant cases may need maintenance.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
- Dermatologist determines birthmark type (pigmented, dermal, mixed).
- Customized PicoLO protocol designed.
Preparation
- Gentle cleansing and application of protective eyewear.
- Numbing cream may be applied.
PicoLO Laser Session
- Step 1: 532 nm wavelength for superficial pigment.
- Step 2: 1064 nm wavelength for deeper dermal pigmentation.
- Step 3: Fractional mode used for texture and resistant pigment.
- Duration: 15–30 minutes depending on lesion size.
Post-Treatment Care
- Cooling mask or antioxidant serum applied.
- Sunscreen emphasized before discharge.
Follow-Up
- 4–8 sessions recommended for optimal results.
- Often combined with Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, or Fractional CO₂ for complex birthmarks.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Homegrown Technology: PicoLO was developed in Korea and is widely adopted across Seoul clinics.
- Asian Skin Protocols: Customized fluence and multi-pass methods to minimize PIH risk.
- Combination Packages: PicoLO often bundled with boosters (PRP, exosomes, whitening drips).
- Globally Recognized Clinics: Seoul dermatology centers are leaders in safe pigment clearance.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Small Birthmark (per session): USD 200 – 350
- Larger Birthmark (per session): USD 300 – 500
- 4–8 Session Package: USD 1,200 – 3,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Glutathione drips, Vitamin C, TXA serums): USD 100 – 200
- Boosters (PRP, exosomes, PN): USD 200 – 500
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic PicoLO Program (3 sessions): USD 700–900
- Advanced Birthmark Program (PicoLO + Whitening Drips): USD 1,200–1,600
- Premium Program (PicoLO + Fractional CO₂/Boosters): USD 2,000–3,000
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: PicoLO for congenital pigmented lesions.
- Banobagi Dermatology: PicoLO + Alexandrite for stubborn birthmarks.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: PicoLO + whitening serums and boosters.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: PicoLO + Fractional lasers for texture + pigment.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium PicoLO programs with regenerative boosters.
