PicoSure in Seoul, Korea
PicoSure is a picosecond laser that shatters pigment with photomechanical energy rather than heat, fading freckles, sunspots and acne marks while brightening tone with minimal downtime at NEST Clinic, Gangnam.
- Session 10–20 min
- Downtime Minimal
- Sessions 1–8
- Spacing 2–4 weeks
🌸 Quick answer
What is PicoSure and what does it treat? PicoSure is an advanced picosecond laser that uses ultra-short, photomechanical pulses to fracture pigment clusters while sparing surrounding skin from heat. That means it fades freckles, sunspots, post-acne marks and dullness with less irritation and quicker recovery. A Focus lens mode also smooths acne scars, fine lines and pores by stimulating collagen. Sessions take 10–20 minutes, and the number depends on your concern.
What is PicoSure?
PicoSure fires pulses in trillionths of a second, vibrating and fracturing pigment rather than burning it. Because it relies on photomechanical rather than heat energy, recovery is quick and comfort is high. At NEST Clinic the main 755 nm mode targets pigmentation, while the Focus lens mode rejuvenates texture, pores and fine lines — and settings are calibrated for Asian skin. It is often combined with skin boosters or calming lasers for a smoother glass-skin glow. For a comparison of pico devices see our pico laser page.
What it treats
- Freckles, sunspots and age spots
- Melasma (gentle settings)
- Post-acne pigmentation (PIH)
- Dull, uneven skin tone
- Mild acne scars, fine lines and pores
Treatment modes
- 755 nm main mode for pigment
- Focus lens for texture and pores
- Combination pico for overall glow
- Optional mode for tattoo ink
- Calibrated for Asian skin
Before & after: what changes
Pigment often darkens briefly before clearing — spots lift gradually over the week or two after each session rather than vanishing at once.
Who is PicoSure for?
A good fit if you
- Have pigmentation, dark spots or sun damage
- Have uneven or dull skin tone
- Have mild acne scars or texture concerns
- Want preventative brightening and rejuvenation
Less suitable if you
- Have very dark skin (needs expert evaluation first)
- Have an active acne flare-up
- Have recently tanned skin
- Expect one session to clear deep pigment
How a PicoSure session works
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Skin and pigment check
The doctor reviews your concern and skin tone and chooses the 755 nm or Focus mode.
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Cleansing and eyewear
Skin is cleansed and protective eyewear is fitted before treatment.
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Laser pulses
Light pulses pass across the area with a snapping, rubber-band feel that most find very tolerable.
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Soothing finish
A soothing cream and SPF finish a session of about 10–20 minutes.
Recovery and results timeline
Most people have mild redness for 1–3 hours and slight darkening of spots before they fade. Light flaking may occur, and makeup can usually go on the next day.
- Within days Immediate brightening
- 1–2 weeks Pigment visibly fades
- 2–3 sessions Smoother texture
- Consistent sessions Long-lasting clarity
PicoSure cost in Seoul
Pricing varies by area and session depth. International patients pay the same local price, confirmed at consultation.
| Single session | ₩150,000 – ₩350,000 |
|---|---|
| Focus lens mode | ₩200,000 – ₩450,000 |
| Packages (3–5 sessions) | Better value, commonly offered |
| Session time | 10–20 minutes |
| Spacing | 2–4 weeks apart |
| Downtime | Minimal; brief redness |
How many sessions by concern
- Brightening: 1–3 sessions
- Pigmentation: 3–6 sessions
- Melasma or stubborn spots: 5–8 gentle sessions
- Texture and pores: 2–3 Focus-mode sessions
Aftercare tips
- Use SPF 50+ diligently
- Avoid saunas and heavy workouts for 24 hours
- Skip exfoliants for 3–5 days
- Avoid intense sun exposure for 1–2 weeks
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Kyungyeon Lee · Chief Medical Doctor, NEST Clinic
Seoul National University (B.Sc.) and Seoul National University College of Medicine (M.Sc.); residency training at Seoul National University Hospital. Former director of VS Line Clinic, Apgujeong.
PicoSure FAQ
How many PicoSure sessions will I need?
Brightening often takes 1–3 sessions, pigmentation 3–6, and melasma or stubborn spots 5–8, spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Your doctor will set a plan after assessing your skin.
Does PicoSure hurt?
Most people feel a snapping, rubber-band sensation that is very tolerable. Sessions are short and soothing care is applied afterwards.
Is PicoSure safe for darker skin tones?
It can be, with expert evaluation and careful settings. Very dark skin needs a cautious approach, and melasma is treated gently to avoid rebound pigmentation.
How is PicoSure different from laser toning?
PicoSure uses ultra-short photomechanical pulses that break pigment more aggressively and faster, while laser toning is a gentler, repeat-often brightening approach. They are sometimes combined.
When will I see results?
Many people notice brightening within a few days, pigment fading over 1–2 weeks, and smoother texture after 2–3 sessions, improving with consistent treatment.
Can I get PicoSure during a short trip to Seoul?
Yes. Sessions are quick with minimal downtime, so visitors often start in Seoul and continue the series at home or on a return visit.
Often considered with PicoSure
Brighter, clearer skin with PicoSure?
Send a photo of your pigmentation and our English-speaking team will suggest the right mode and session count for your skin tone.