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Addressing Skin Concerns Such as Dark Spots with Pico Laser: Effects and Precautions Explained

ピコレーザーでシミなど肌の悩みを解消!効果から注意点まで解説

The treatment known as Pico Laser is popular among people concerned about dark spots, dullness, and melasma. This advanced technology is characterized by higher efficacy, less pain, and shorter downtime compared with conventional laser treatments. Due to its properties, it is also used for Tattoo removal and permanent makeup removal.

This article provides a detailed explanation of the symptoms for which Pico Laser is recommended, its effects, and precautions to take when undergoing treatment. If you are interested in Pico Laser, please use this article as a reference.

Contents

What Is Pico Laser?

Pico Laser is a treatment that removes skin dark spots, dullness, and tattoos by irradiating the skin with a laser for an extremely short time measured in picoseconds. Compared with conventional lasers, it places less burden on the skin and is characterized by high treatment efficacy. Since it causes less pain than older lasers, treatment can be performed without anesthesia.

However, the treatment is not completely painless, so topical anesthesia or nitrous oxide sedation may be used for people with sensitive skin. In any case, it is a treatment method with greater benefits than conventional laser treatment.

Features of Pico Laser

Pico Laser has the following features.

  • A treatment that removes melanin pigments using shock waves while minimizing the thermal burden
  • A pinpoint treatment that works only on the treated area
  • Visible effects appear after fewer treatment sessions
  • Treatment can be completed in a short time
  • A treatment with reduced pain and short downtime
  • A lower risk of hyperpigmentation

Each feature is explained in detail below.

A treatment that removes melanin pigments using shock waves while minimizing the thermal burden

Pico Laser uses shock waves rather than heat to break down melanin pigments and effectively remove dark spots and freckles. Its irradiation time is measured in nanoseconds (one-billionth of a second), which allows melanin to be shattered while minimizing the thermal burden on the skin.

A pinpoint treatment that works only on the treated area

Because Pico Laser works only on specific treatment areas, it produces pinpoint effects without damaging the surrounding skin. Since it has little thermal effect on the surrounding skin, it can deliver its effects firmly to the affected area.

Visible effects appear after fewer treatment sessions

Compared with conventional laser treatments, Pico Laser can produce visible effects in fewer sessions, allowing treatment to be completed in a shorter period. Because it can treat areas more precisely than conventional lasers, the number of sessions may sometimes be reduced by up to 1/2.

Treatment can be completed in a short time

Pico Laser has a short irradiation time, and one session can be completed in approximately several minutes. Because the irradiation time is short and treatment can be performed precisely, the treatment can be completed quickly. It can be considered suitable for busy people and those who want to improve their condition as soon as possible.

A treatment with reduced pain and short downtime

Pico Laser causes little pain and has a short downtime after treatment, minimizing its impact on daily life. Because it uses a special irradiation method that prevents heat from spreading from the irradiated area, it is characterized by less pain and shorter downtime.
### A lower risk of hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a condition in which damage to cellular tissue causes new dark spots and similar changes to develop. Since Pico Laser destroys melanin pigments intensively with shock waves, the risk of hyperpigmentation is low, allowing dark spots and freckles to be treated safely.

What Effects Can Be Expected from Pico Laser?

The following effects can be expected from Pico Laser treatment.

  • Improve dark spots, freckles, dullness, and melasma
  • Also effective for Tattoo removal and permanent makeup removal
  • Improve enlarged pores and acne scars to create smoother, more beautiful skin

Each effect is explained below.

Improve dark spots, freckles, dullness, and melasma

Pico Laser is particularly effective for improving dark spots, freckles, dullness, and melasma. By finely breaking down melanin pigments, it can improve these conditions at their source and may create brighter, more translucent-looking skin. When dark spots are strongly pigmented, a method of gradually removing the melanin pigment by increasing the output is used. Even then, dark spots may become less noticeable after 1–2 treatments, so satisfactory results may be achieved even for deeply pigmented spots.

Melasma, which was once considered difficult to treat, can also be treated with Pico Laser. Melasma is an irregular, pale-brown patch that primarily develops on both cheeks and is often symmetrical. Causes include rubbing the skin during skincare, ultraviolet rays, and female hormones.

For melasma treatment, Pico Toning, which uses low-fluence irradiation, is correctly used rather than Pico Laser. The ability to treat areas that were said to be difficult to treat with conventional methods is a significant benefit. For more information about Pico Toning, please refer to the article below.

Also effective for Tattoo removal and permanent makeup removal

Pico Laser is also highly effective for removing tattoos and permanent makeup. It can finely break down tattoo pigments and gradually lighten them while helping prevent hyperpigmentation, which was difficult to avoid with conventional lasers. In addition, the reduced damage to the skin is an advantage because recovery after treatment is faster. It can also remove colors such as those used in color tattoos, which are considered difficult to eliminate.

Improve enlarged pores and acne scars to create smoother, more beautiful skin

Pico Laser is also effective for improving enlarged pores and acne scars. The laser reaches deep into the skin, tightening pores while smoothing the uneven texture of acne scars. It may also promote skin regeneration and help transform the skin into a healthy, smooth condition.

This treatment may also improve makeup application. Pico Laser treatment is recommended for people concerned about enlarged pores and similar issues.

The Irradiation Method for Pico Laser Is Selected According to the Symptoms

With Pico Laser, the optimal irradiation method can be selected according to the symptoms. The available types are as follows.

  • Pico Toning
  • Pico Fractional
  • Pico Spot

The features of each are explained below.

Pico Toning

Pico Toning is a method that improves dark spots and dullness over a wide area by irradiating the laser uniformly. Since it reduces melanin in the skin evenly, it can improve the overall tone of the skin. It is particularly effective for improving dullness and melasma.

Treatment is generally repeated. As a guideline, treatment is performed once every 2–4 weeks, for a total of 10 or more sessions. The number of sessions varies depending on the condition of the affected area and other factors, so please consult a doctor for details.

Symptoms for Which Pico Toning Is Recommended

Pico Toning is indicated for the following symptoms.

  • Lightly pigmented dark spots
  • Freckles
  • Melasma
  • Dullness
  • Hyperpigmentation

Of these, melasma is considered difficult to treat with other methods. If you are struggling with melasma, consider requesting treatment with Pico Toning.

Downtime and Side Effects of Pico Toning

Pico Toning is characterized by almost no downtime and few side effects such as redness. Even if downtime or side effects occur, they generally subside in approximately 1–2 days.

Pico Fractional

Pico Fractional is a treatment intended for skin rejuvenation. By irradiating the skin with a fine laser in a dot pattern, it creates microscopic injuries deep within the skin and promotes natural regeneration.

This method can promote an increase in collagen and elastin, and effects such as improvement of wrinkles, sagging, and skin quality can be expected. It is also effective for tightening pores and improving acne scars, making overall skin rejuvenation possible. Repeated treatment is also generally recommended, with a guideline of one treatment per month for a total of 5–10 treatments.

Symptoms for Which Pico Fractional Is Recommended

Pico Fractional is recommended for people concerned about the following symptoms.

  • Improvement of acne scars
  • Enlarged pores
  • Fine lines
  • Improving skin texture and firmness

Since the skin surface is not damaged during the treatment process, it is also recommended for people who want to minimize downtime.

Downtime and Side Effects of Pico Fractional

Downtime after Pico Fractional is relatively short and generally subsides in approximately 5 days to 1 week. Slight redness or swelling may appear after treatment, and scabs may form.

Pico Spot

Pico Spot is a treatment that concentrates laser irradiation on specific areas such as dark spots, freckles, and tattoos. Since it directly targets specific pigments, it can effectively remove dark spots in fewer sessions.

It is particularly effective for improving dark spots and freckles with strong pigmentation, as well as hyperpigmentation that is difficult to treat with other methods. Pico Spot enables highly precise treatment by effectively treating only the target area without burdening the skin as a whole.

For more information about Pico Spot, please also refer to this article.

Symptoms for Which Pico Spot Is Recommended

Pico Spot is recommended for people with the following symptoms.

  • Darkly pigmented dark spots and freckles
  • Moles
  • Tattoo removal
  • ADM and similar conditions

If you are concerned about specific skin issues or hyperpigmentation, you may wish to consider treatment with Pico Spot.

Downtime and Side Effects of Pico Spot

Although downtime after Pico Spot is relatively short, mild redness or swelling may continue for several days after treatment. Areas treated for longer than with other laser treatments may be particularly noticeable. In rare cases, hyperpigmentation may occur in the treated area, but this is also temporary and will gradually return to its original condition.

After treatment, take thorough measures against ultraviolet rays and moisturize your skin to prevent hyperpigmentation and inflammation. If scabs form, do not touch them and wait for them to come off naturally.

Precautions for Pico Laser Treatment

There are several precautions to take when undergoing Pico Laser treatment. They are as follows.

  • Do not rub the treated area to prevent hyperpigmentation
  • Thoroughly moisturize the skin and take measures against sun exposure
  • If you are concerned about side effects after treatment, consult us without hesitation

Do not rub the treated area to prevent hyperpigmentation

After Pico Laser treatment, care must be taken not to rub the treated area to prevent hyperpigmentation. Since the skin is in a delicate condition, irritation caused by friction may lead to hyperpigmentation.

When washing your face or drying it with a towel, treat your skin gently and avoid applying strong pressure. You should also be careful when using cosmetics and choose products that are less irritating. If a scab forms, wait for it to come off naturally and do not remove it forcibly.

Thoroughly moisturize the skin and take measures against sun exposure

After Pico Laser treatment, it is important to thoroughly moisturize the skin and take measures against sun exposure. The skin is prone to dryness after treatment and becomes sensitive to external irritation. Therefore, use moisturizing cream and lotion thoroughly to maintain the skin's moisture.

It is also essential to use sunscreen to avoid damage from ultraviolet rays. Particularly for several weeks after treatment, avoid strong sunlight and take thorough measures against sun exposure by combining physical UV protection, such as hats and parasols.

Sun protection should ideally be carried out thoroughly every day, regardless of the season or weather. This is because ultraviolet rays are always present, even on cloudy days when they may appear weak. Even brief time outdoors can expose the skin to damage from ultraviolet rays, so make sun protection part of your daily routine.

If you are concerned about side effects after treatment, consult us without hesitation

If you are concerned about side effects after Pico Laser treatment, it is important to consult a doctor promptly without worrying alone. Redness and swelling may rarely persist, but these symptoms usually improve over time. However, if you notice anything unusual or feel anxious, seek a specialist's advice as soon as possible.

Consulting at an early stage allows appropriate treatment and care to be continued. You should also confirm the appropriate post-treatment care methods with your doctor again and protect your skin correctly.

Improve Skin Concerns Caused by Dark Spots with Pico Laser!

Pico Laser is a treatment for improving skin concerns such as dark spots, freckles, and dullness. Since it causes little pain and downtime and can produce visible effects in a short period, it is chosen by many people.

It is particularly recommended for those who have not experienced effects from other treatments or who want to minimize the burden on their skin. Appropriate aftercare can help maintain the effects of treatment and preserve beautiful skin. With Pico Laser, achieve bare skin you can feel confident in.

If you are considering Pico Laser treatment, we invite you to consider treatment at LIVELY CLINIC. Our clinic has the latest equipment and doctors with specialized knowledge who can propose the most suitable treatment for each patient. Another feature is that you can rely on us with peace of mind, from counseling through aftercare. If you are undergoing Pico Laser treatment for the first time, please consult our clinic.

Pico laser Price list

Pico Toning

Full face
15,000 JPY
Full face / 10 session
13,000 JPY / session
Full face / 20 session
11,000 JPY / session
Both hands (back of hands)
12,000 JPY
Neck
12,000 JPY
Chest area
22,000 JPY
Upper back
30,000 JPY
Lower back
30,000 JPY
(Optional)Eyelids
11,000 JPY
(Optional)Lips
2,200 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, Hamamatsucho Clinic, Funabashi Clinic

*Hamamatsucho and Osaka Clinics: PicoSure; Funabashi Clinic: Pico 3 Pro

Pico Toning + Caresis (Pep View)

Full face 1 time
28,000 JPY
Full face 5-session
27,000 JPY / session
Full face 10-session
24,000 JPY / session
Full face 20-session
22,000 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, Hamamatsucho Clinic, Funabashi Clinic

*Hamamatsucho and Osaka Clinics: PicoSure; Funabashi Clinic: Pico 3 Pro

Pico Fractional

Full face
28,000 JPY
Both cheeks
18,000 JPY
Nose
6,600 JPY
Nose + Both cheeks
22,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, Hamamatsucho Clinic, Funabashi Clinic

*Hamamatsucho and Osaka Clinics: PicoSure; Funabashi Clinic: Pico 3 Pro

Pico Double (Toning + Fractional)

Full face
35,000 JPY
Both cheeks
22,000 JPY
Nose + Both cheeks
28,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, Hamamatsucho Clinic, Funabashi Clinic

*Hamamatsucho and Osaka Clinics: PicoSure; Funabashi Clinic: Pico 3 Pro

Pico Spot

within 5mm 1 spot
5,500 JPY
Additional +5mm
+ 5500 JPY
Both cheeks + nose
55,000 JPY
Full face
77,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, Hamamatsucho Clinic, Funabashi Clinic

*Hamamatsucho and Osaka Clinics: PicoSure; Funabashi Clinic: Pico 3 Pro

Genesis Laser

Full face
15,000 JPY
Full face, 5 sessions
13,000 JPY / session
Full face, 10 sessions
11,000 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, Hamamatsucho Clinic, Funabashi Clinic

*Funabashi clinic Pico3 Pro

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Medically reviewed by

Masao Hayashi

Masao Hayashi

Career

  • 2017 Graduated from Tokyo Medical University
  • 2019 Joined the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University
  • 2021 Aesthetic Surgery and Dermatology in Tokyo
  • 2023 THE CLINIC
  • 2024 LIVELY CLINIC