Laser technology continues to evolve every year, yet the Pico Laser family remains one of the most talked about innovations in modern aesthetics. Pico lasers deliver high clarity results in pigment reduction, skin brightening, and overall texture refinement, which explains their rising popularity worldwide. However, the challenge is that many people do not know how each Pico model differs, which one suits their skin concerns, and why results vary widely between clinics. This guide from Obliv Young clarifies everything in a deep and practical way so you can choose the right Pico treatment with confidence.
What Is a Pico Laser?
A Pico Laser is a type of picosecond laser that releases energy in trillionth of a second bursts, creating a powerful photoacoustic impact rather than relying on heat. This allows pigment to shatter into extremely fine particles while minimizing tissue damage. Recovery is faster, post laser darkening is reduced, and the skin barrier remains intact. Pico lasers are powerful enough to target deep pigment yet gentle on the surface, making them effective for melasma, freckles, dark spots, acne marks, tattoos, and even textural improvement in a single platform.
How Pico Lasers Work on the Skin
Pico energy affects the skin through two primary mechanisms.
First, the powerful photoacoustic impact breaks melanin into tiny particles that the skin gradually clears through natural repair pathways. This improves melasma, sunspots, and long standing acne marks.
Second, when energy penetrates the dermis, it creates microscopic spaces called LIOB that trigger collagen production as the skin attempts to repair these micro injuries. The result is smoother texture, refined pores, and gradual improvement of acne scars. Both processes occur without peeling the skin or relying on excessive heat, which reduces the risk of thinning or irritation.
How Many Types of Pico Lasers Exist?
Today, multiple companies manufacture Pico Laser systems, each designed with different strengths in pigment correction, depth of penetration, stability, and skin repair. Not every Pico machine is ideal for every skin concern, which is why understanding each model matters. Below are six major Pico systems widely used in professional clinics.
1. PicoSure
PicoSure by CynoSure USA is the first generation picosecond laser known for its 755 nanometer wavelength that targets melanin extremely well. It is popular for melasma, freckles, sunspots, and stubborn acne marks. Its Focus Lens Array helps distribute energy safely, making it a gentle yet effective option especially for sensitive or thin skin. It offers mild collagen stimulation and brightening without significant downtime.
2. PicoSure Pro
PicoSure Pro is the upgraded version offering enhanced energy stability and deeper melanin targeting while maintaining the 755 nanometer wavelength. It responds faster to pigment and tattoo removal and includes additional handpieces and modes for more precise customization. It is often chosen for patients who have undergone multiple treatments elsewhere with limited success.
3. PicoPlus
PicoPlus by Lutronic Korea stands out with multiple wavelengths including 1064, 532, 595, and 660 nanometers, allowing treatment of both superficial and deep pigment, redness, acne marks, and multicolor tattoos. Its flexibility allows doctors to create complex treatment plans for patients with mixed concerns such as melasma, freckles, redness, and acne scars. The deeper penetration also supports texture improvement over a course of treatments.
4. Enlighten
Enlighten by Cutera USA uses 1064 and 532 nanometer wavelengths combined with three energy modes Picosecond, Nanosecond, and Micropulse for superior versatility. Doctors can select modes precisely according to pigment type and skin sensitivity. It works well for dark spots, acne marks, melasma, freckles, and gentle full face rejuvenation because its energy delivery reduces heat buildup and irritation.
5. PicoWay
PicoWay by Candela USA features 1064, 532, and 785 nanometer wavelengths and is known for exceptionally short pulse durations that deliver high precision without heat accumulation. It excels in treating tattoos of all colors and resistant pigment conditions. The impact feels sharp and fast yet remains gentle, making it suitable for patients who want quick responses with minimal irritation.
6. Discovery Pico
Discovery Pico by Quanta System Italy uses Dual Pulse technology that switches between picosecond and nanosecond energies to treat deep pigment and intense tattoo colors effectively. It delivers high safe energy and is a strong option for stubborn pigmentation and medium to deep acne scars. Its stable output across wide treatment areas supports natural looking skin rejuvenation when done as a course.
What Is the Fair Price Range for Pico Laser?
Pico Laser pricing depends on the device brand and the doctor’s expertise.
In Thailand, full face sessions typically range from 3,000 to 10,000 THB. Premium machines such as PicoPlus or Discovery Pico are priced toward the higher end. Spot treatments for specific freckles or dark marks cost less, while fractional modes for acne scars cost more due to higher energy use and the skill required.
Prices that are unusually low may indicate imitation devices or unsafe parameter settings. Choosing a highly skilled doctor is just as important as choosing the right machine.
Advantages and Limitations of Pico Laser
Advantages
Pico Laser technology is designed to target pigment and improve texture simultaneously with greater precision than older lasers. Key benefits include:
- Shattering pigment more effectively which improves dark spots, acne marks, and sun damage
- Avoiding heat accumulation which reduces post laser darkening
- Stimulating deep collagen without thinning the surface
- Quick recovery and minimal downtime
- Treating multiple concerns including pigment, acne scars, and pores in one system
Limitations
Although highly effective, Pico is not a universal solution for everyone. Results depend on skin condition, pigment depth, device model, and the doctor’s technique.
- Incorrect energy settings can cause temporary redness or darkening
- Different devices give different results depending on the concern
- Costs are higher than basic lasers and usually require multiple sessions
- Deep melasma or deep acne scars may need combination treatments
- Counterfeit or low grade devices in the market pose significant safety risks
Obliv Young’s Perspective on Pico Laser
At Obliv Young, we see Pico Laser as a technology that elevates the standard for pigment treatment, but not as a device that guarantees results without proper medical evaluation. Outcomes depend heavily on skin analysis, precise energy settings, and the doctor’s experience. Too little energy fails to break pigment; too much increases irritation risks. Choosing a Pico machine is not enough. What matters is choosing a doctor who understands how to customize modes for each patient.
From our experience, the clearest improvements occur in patients with dullness caused by pigment accumulation, moderate melasma, sun freckles, acne marks, and shallow to moderate acne scars. When used appropriately and combined with suitable skincare, Pico Laser creates gradual but steady transformations while strengthening overall skin quality.