What Is Pico Laser? Explaining the 3 Irradiation Modes, Expected Effects, and Potential Risks

“I’ve been noticing more age spots and freckles lately.”
“I’d like to improve the appearance of my acne scars.”
“I want to remove a tattoo I got years ago.”

Do any of these concerns sound familiar?

Pico laser is a treatment device that may help address pigmented spots, uneven skin tone, and similar concerns. By using ultra-short laser pulses, it can help minimize damage to the skin and reduce discomfort during treatment.

On this page, we have compiled information on the potential benefits, advantages, and disadvantages of pico laser. We also cover pricing and downtime, so please read through to the end.

At our clinic, we propose a treatment plan suited to each individual patient and provide care focused on outcomes. We take the time to carefully listen to your concerns and symptoms, so please use the button below to book a consultation.

What Is Pico Laser? Addressing Pigmented Spots and Tattoos

Pico laser is a laser treatment that may help reduce pigmented spots and melasma.

By delivering ultra-short laser pulses, it targets and breaks down the melanin pigment responsible for spots and other discoloration.

Traditionally, spot removal relied on “Q-switched lasers,” which operate in the nanosecond range (one billionth of a second).

Pico laser, by contrast, operates in the picosecond range (one trillionth of a second) — pulses that are significantly shorter than those of conventional Q-switched lasers.

Compared with Q-switched lasers, pico laser is associated with less discomfort, a lower likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and reduced post-treatment risk, making it a next-generation treatment option.

IC Clinic Uses the “EnlightenSR”

IC Clinic uses the pico laser device “EnlightenSR,” which has received approval from both the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
(Reference: Insurance Coverage for Medical Devices | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)

The EnlightenSR is a pico laser that allows precise adjustments to accommodate a wide range of skin types.

“SR” stands for “Skin Revitalization.” It is designed to address a variety of skin concerns, including pigmentation such as spots and discoloration, signs of aging, and acne scars.

Downtime is generally minimal, and many patients find it easier to notice skin changes with fewer treatment sessions, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.

Three Irradiation Modes of Pico Laser

Pico laser offers three irradiation modes:

• Pico Toning
• Pico Fractional
• Pico Spot

A key feature of pico laser is its ability to address each patient’s individual skin concerns by selecting the most appropriate irradiation mode.

Below, we explain each of the three modes in detail.

① Pico Toning

Pico Toning is a treatment that delivers low-energy laser pulses across a broad area of the face to gradually reduce melanin.

Conventional high-powered lasers carry a risk of stimulating melasma and potentially worsening the condition.

Pico Toning, however, is suitable for melasma and may be an option even for patients who have been turned away by other laser treatments.

It also involves relatively little discomfort during treatment, and requires minimal downtime.

For more details, please refer to the page below. If you are interested in Pico Toning, we encourage you to take a look.

Is Pico Toning Effective for Pigmented Spots & Melasma? Treatment Process, Recovery, and Session Intervals Explained | IC Clinic

② Pico Fractional

Pico Fractional is a treatment that directs concentrated, pinpoint laser energy into the deeper layers of the skin to promote the regeneration of new skin.

It may help with acne and acne scars, the appearance of fine lines, and overall improvement in skin firmness and texture.

Because Pico Fractional causes minimal disruption to the skin’s surface, it is associated with little discomfort and a relatively short downtime period. Some redness may occur after treatment, but in many cases it subsides within one to several days.

The page below provides further details on Pico Fractional treatment — please feel free to read it if you would like to know more.

What Is Pico Fractional Laser? Two Potential Benefits and Pricing Explained | IC Clinic

③ Pico Spot

Pico Spot is a treatment that concentrates laser energy on specific areas of concern such as spots for targeted removal.

By delivering high-powered laser pulses, it can work to reduce spots, freckles, and pigmentation from sources such as semi-permanent makeup in a relatively short time.

There may be a sensation similar to a snap of a rubber band, though the impact on the surrounding skin is generally limited.

Results vary among individuals, but downtime is generally minimal, and in many cases patients can apply makeup immediately after the procedure. The risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following treatment is also considered low.

Three Potential Effects of Pico Laser Treatment

Pico laser treatment may offer the following three potential benefits:

• Reduction of Pigmented Spots & Melasma
• Improvement of Acne Scars and Enlarged Pores
• Tattoo and Body Art Removal

By selecting from three irradiation modes, pico laser can be applied to a wide range of skin concerns.

Below, we explain each potential effect in detail.

① Reduction of Pigmented Spots & Melasma

Pico laser is a laser treatment that targets melanin pigment, which means it may be effective for reducing spots and melasma caused by excess melanin.

Results vary among individuals, but spots may become less noticeable after one to two treatment sessions in some cases.

In addition, while conventional laser treatments were often not suitable for melasma, pico laser may offer a viable approach.

Pico Toning, which uses low-energy laser pulses, can be used to gradually lighten melasma over a course of sessions.

Featured article:
Recommended Dermatology Clinics for Laser Spot Removal: Dermatology vs. Cosmetic Surgery — Which Is Better? Insurance Coverage, Pricing, and Treatment Effects Explained

② Improvement of Acne Scars and Enlarged Pores

Pico laser may also help address acne scars and enlarged pores.

When acne inflammation progresses, it can damage the surrounding tissue, leaving behind crater-like depressions (atrophic scarring).

Pico Fractional delivers targeted micro-pulses to stimulate skin regeneration, making it potentially useful for improving not just active acne but also crater-type acne scarring.

It may also help with enlarged pores caused by UV exposure and aging. Tightening the appearance of pores may help restore skin’s natural resilience and improve skin texture and the way makeup applies.

③ Tattoo and Body Art Removal

Pico laser may also be effective for removing tattoos, body art, and semi-permanent makeup.

Because it can break down pigment particles into finer fragments than conventional lasers, it may help fade tattoos and semi-permanent makeup with fewer treatment sessions.

That said, it is not possible to fully remove a tattoo in a single laser session. The number of sessions required varies depending on factors such as ink depth and color, and in some cases more than ten sessions may be needed.

A thorough consultation with our physician can provide a general estimate of the number of sessions required.

If you are considering tattoo or semi-permanent makeup removal, or the reduction of spots or melasma, we welcome you to visit our clinic.

Three Advantages of Pico Laser

In addition to its potential to address a range of skin concerns, pico laser offers the following three advantages:

• Reduced Impact on the Skin
• Shorter Downtime After Treatment
• Noticeable Results with Fewer Sessions

While laser treatments generally involve some degree of skin impact and downtime, pico laser is associated with a lower level of such risks. Below, we explain each advantage in detail.

① Reduced Impact on the Skin

A key characteristic of pico laser is its limited impact on the skin.

Because pulses are delivered in picosecond intervals, thermal stress on the skin is minimal, and discomfort during treatment tends to be mild.

Sensitivity to discomfort varies from person to person, but most patients describe the sensation as similar to a light snap of a rubber band.

② Shorter Downtime After Treatment

Another characteristic of pico laser is its relatively short downtime after treatment.

Downtime refers to the period following laser treatment during which symptoms such as swelling, puffiness, or bruising may occur before the skin returns to its normal state.

Conventional CO2 fractional lasers typically required an extended downtime period, with the treated area needing to be protected with tape or dressings.

Because pico laser places less stress on the skin, downtime is generally minimal.

In most cases, there is no need to cover the treated area with tape, and patients can typically apply makeup immediately after the procedure under medical guidance.

Please note, however, that the skin is quite sensitive following treatment. When cleansing or performing facial massage, take care to avoid applying strong pressure to the treated area.

③ Noticeable Results with Fewer Sessions

Pico Toning is a laser treatment that breaks pigment particles into very fine fragments, which are then more readily eliminated through the body’s natural metabolic processes.

As a result, it is a treatment approach that may allow patients to notice changes in their skin with a relatively smaller number of sessions.

However, not every patient will notice results after just one session.

Depending on the condition being treated, common pigmented spots may show improvement with approximately one to three Pico Spot sessions in some cases.

For acne scars, enlarged pores, or fine lines, approximately five to ten sessions of Pico Toning or Pico Fractional may be expected to yield noticeable results.

Sessions are typically scheduled approximately once a month.

Disadvantages of Pico Laser

Pico laser has the following potential disadvantages:

• Treatment costs tend to be somewhat higher
• There is a possibility of post-treatment skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation
• Post-treatment moisturizing and sun protection are necessary

Pricing varies depending on the clinic, but pico laser treatment tends to be priced somewhat higher than other options.

Costs also differ based on the specific treatment and the area being targeted, so we recommend discussing your budget and pricing with the clinic beforehand.

There is also a possibility of experiencing post-treatment skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation or skin irritation. These reactions are generally temporary, but depending on individual skin characteristics, there is a possibility that hyperpigmentation may persist in some cases.

In addition, to help prevent skin irritation, it is important to maintain proper moisturizing and sun protection practices after treatment.

Are There Risks with Pico Laser? Characteristics of Those More Prone to Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Pico laser involves minimal thermal effect, which means the impact on the skin is generally low, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is considered less likely to occur.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a phenomenon in which strong thermal energy causes skin inflammation, temporarily resulting in new areas of discoloration.

While pico laser is considered a lower-risk option, the possibility of hyperpigmentation cannot be entirely ruled out.

Characteristics that may indicate a higher likelihood of hyperpigmentation include:

• Skin that tans easily
• Disrupted skin cell turnover (skin metabolism)

For those whose skin tans easily, consistent sun protection measures are recommended; for those with disrupted skin cell turnover, regular exfoliation care may help reduce the likelihood of hyperpigmentation.

If you have concerns about your skin condition, please do not hesitate to consult with us.

Pico Laser Treatment Process

The pico laser treatment process at our clinic is as follows:

1. Medical Consultation and Skin Assessment
   The attending physician will assess your skin condition. As pico laser uses three different wavelengths, we will propose an approach tailored to your individual skin type and characteristics.
2. Laser Irradiation
   After confirming the size and shape of the area to be treated, laser irradiation will be performed. You may feel a light crackling sensation on your skin, similar to small firework sparks. Once irradiation is complete, the treated area will be thoroughly cooled.
3. Aftercare
   Under the guidance of the attending physician, you may apply makeup and return home immediately after the procedure. However, please make sure to maintain consistent moisturizing with toner and lotion, and to apply sunscreen for UV protection. Depending on the treatment, your next session will be scheduled approximately one month later.

Depending on the treatment, your next session can be scheduled approximately one month after the previous one.

Recovery Progress After Pico Laser

After pico laser treatment, the treated area typically progresses as follows:

1. The treated area may temporarily turn white immediately after laser irradiation
2. It may then darken and develop a scab-like appearance
3. After approximately one week, new skin forms and the scab naturally flakes off
4. The area where the scab has fallen off gradually takes on a pinkish tone
5. Over approximately one to two months, the treated area settles and blends with the surrounding skin

※ Recovery progress varies among individuals. If you notice any unusual changes to your skin, please consult a physician promptly.

Pico Laser Pricing

Pico laser pricing at our clinic varies depending on the treatment.

Please refer to the pricing tables below, organized by concern, for detailed information:

• Pricing table for Pigmented Spots & Melasma
• Pricing table for Wrinkles
• Pricing table for Clogged Pores
• Pricing table for Acne Scars (Indentations)

For Pico Laser Treatment, Visit IC Clinic

Pico laser is a treatment that may offer benefits for concerns such as pigmented spots and melasma.

By delivering laser energy in picosecond (one-trillionth of a second) pulses, it works to minimize impact on the skin while targeting pigment within the deeper skin layers.

Pico laser may help address the following types of pigmentation:

• Pigmented Spots & Melasma
• Acne Scars and Enlarged Pores
• Tattoos and Body Art

If you have any skin concerns, we encourage you to consult with IC Clinic. We will propose a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin type and budget.

At our clinic, we propose a treatment plan suited to each individual patient and provide care focused on outcomes. We take the time to carefully listen to your concerns and symptoms, so please use the button below to book a consultation.