Pico toning is a treatment that uses laser pulses measured in picoseconds to break down pigment in the epidermis and dermis, and is used for melasma, blemishes and pigmentation.
Pico toning is a treatment that delivers laser energy for an extremely short time, measured in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second), to break the pigment within the skin into fine particles. Because the pulse is so short, the pigment is shattered before heat can spread to the surrounding tissue, so there is less heat damage to the surrounding skin than with a nanosecond laser. The finely broken pigment is then gradually cleared through the body's metabolic processes.
It is used for melasma, blemishes, freckles, lentigines, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dull skin tone. The wavelength, energy and delivery method differ depending on whether the pigment lies in the epidermis or the dermis, and whether it is a pigment that reacts to stimulation, as melasma does. The basic principle is to manage pigment over several sessions at low energy rather than trying to erase it in one strong treatment.
Atelier Plastic Surgery also uses the pico laser for skin care after surgery. At consultation we identify the type and depth of the pigment and set the energy and interval to suit your skin condition.
Low energy is delivered evenly across the whole face to gradually reduce pigment in the epidermis and dermis. For pigment that reacts to stimulation, such as melasma, strong energy can actually aggravate the pigment, so treatment is carried out over several sessions at low energy.
For pigment with clearly defined edges, such as blemishes, freckles and age spots, the energy is raised and applied only to that area. A thin crust (scab) forms after treatment and falls off a few days later, leaving the pigment lighter.
If pores or fine lines are present along with pigment, Pico MLA is planned as well; if the skin is dry and sensitive, a skin booster is added. Combining care that supports skin recovery after pigment treatment helps reduce pigment rebound.
These may vary depending on your condition; we will give you precise details at your consultation.
Epidermal blemishes, dermal pigment and melasma each respond differently. If the whole face is treated at the same energy, some pigment may clear while other pigment actually darkens. At consultation we distinguish the type of pigment and vary the delivery method by area.
Melasma has a tendency to darken again in response to strong stimulation. Rather than trying to erase it in one go, we divide treatment into sessions at an energy your skin can tolerate and adjust the energy as we observe the response.
Pigment returns under the influence of ultraviolet light, hormones, friction and other factors. Treatment alone does not maintain the result, so we also guide you on sun protection and daily habits that reduce irritation to the skin.
The skin may be slightly red and feel warm, and this mostly settles within a few hours. You can wash your face and wear makeup the same day.
A thin crust may form on spot-treated areas. Do not pick it off; let it fall away naturally, and be diligent with moisturizing and sun protection. Avoid saunas and strong friction.
The crust falls off and the pigment begins to look lighter. The newly exposed skin is sensitive to ultraviolet light, so apply sunscreen carefully.
The next session is carried out. We adjust the energy according to how your skin responds.
As the sessions accumulate, you can expect the skin tone to become evenly brighter. Pigment can return, so a maintenance schedule is set as needed.
After pico toning, temporary redness, warmth and stinging may occur, and these mostly improve within a few hours to a few days. If the energy is too high or the skin is sensitive, blistering, crusting or pigmentation may develop, and after repeated treatments, rarely, hypopigmentation may appear, in which patches of skin turn white. Melasma may temporarily darken or recur in response to the stimulation of treatment. If sun protection after treatment is insufficient, pigment can easily return. Treatment may be restricted if you are pregnant, are taking photosensitizing medication, have recently had a strong sunburn, have an active infection or skin condition in the treatment area, or are prone to keloids. The degree of improvement and the number of sessions needed vary by individual.
The content on this page is general medical information provided in accordance with the Medical Service Act. The results of surgery and treatments and the recovery period may vary by individual. All surgeries and treatments carry a risk of side effects, so please decide after a thorough consultation with a specialist.
Pico MLA that spares the epidermis and stimulates only the dermis to support regeneration
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