Picosecond Laser Treatment for freckles, dark spots in Bangkok

  At Mingkwan Clinic in Bangkok, Thailand, we offer Picosecond Laser (Picolaser) treatments, a highly effective solution for reducing freckles, melasma, sunspots, and dark spots. In this article, you’ll learn how Picosecond Laser works, its benefits, and why it’s a top choice for skin pigmentation treatment. Keep reading to discover more!

What is the Picosecond Laser (Pico Laser)?

  The Picosecond Laser is an innovative advancement in laser technology, designed to be superior to traditional laser systems. It emits ultra-short pulses—measured in trillionths of a second—delivering high-energy treatment while generating minimal heat. This results in highly effective pigment breakdown, fewer treatment sessions, less pain, and fewer side effects.

How is the new Picosecond Laser different from the older Q-Switch Laser?

  The Picosecond Laser delivers significantly higher energy than the Q-Switch Laser and fires pulses that are 1,000 times shorter. This allows for much finer pigment fragmentation without causing excessive heat buildup in the surrounding tissue. As a result, the Picosecond Laser offers superior treatment outcomes, requires fewer sessions, causes less discomfort, and has fewer side effects—making it a better option in every aspect.

  Additionally, some Picosecond Laser models feature a specially designed microlens array, which creates numerous microscopic air bubbles under the skin. This stimulates skin repair and collagen production, making it highly effective in treating acne scars, wounds, and fine wrinkles.

What Can the Picosecond Laser Treat?

  The Picosecond Laser can effectively treat two major categories:

1. Pigment Problems: Including uneven skin tone, melasma, freckles, dark spots, and tattoo removal.
2. Texture Problems: Including enlarged pores, acne scars, rough skin texture, scars, fine lines, and stretch marks.

How Many Picosecond Laser Sessions Are Needed to See Results? How Far Apart Should They Be?

• For uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation: 2-6 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart.
• For sun spots and superficial freckles: 1-3 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
• For melasma: 4-10 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart.
• For acne marks and dark spots: 2-6 sessions, spaced 2 weeks apart.
• For deep freckles, Acquired, Bilateral Nevus of Ota-like Macules (ABNOM): At least 5-6 sessions, depending on severity, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
• For enlarged pores: 3-5 sessions, spaced 1 month apart.
• For acne scars, wounds, and stretch marks: Around 4-10 sessions, depending on severity and depth of the scars, spaced 1 month apart.
• For tattoo removal: The number of sessions depends on the ink quality and tattoo depth, spaced 4 weeks apart.

What Kind of Picosecond Laser Does Mingkwan Clinic Use?

• The clinic uses a genuine Picosecond Laser. Manufactured by a leading global laser company.
• This Picosecond Laser is an advanced model that has been improved from its previous generation, featuring a shorter pulse duration (450 ps) and the highest peak power of up to 1.8 GW. It also operates at four different wavelengths—532, 595, 660, and 1064 nm—making it capable of treating all types of pigmentation issues.
• Equipped with a Micro Lens Array (MLA) handpiece, this laser is designed to treat rough skin texture by stimulating collagen production at three adjustable depths.
• It is the most extensively researched Picosecond Laser for Asian skin.
• As a revolutionary skin treatment device, this laser ensures our patients receive the highest quality and most effective treatments possible.

What Treatment Programs Are Available at Mingkwan Clinic?

• PICO Bright and Rejuvenation (B&R)
  • Suitable for those looking to brighten their skin, even out skin tone, hydrate the skin, and reduce melasma and dark spots.
  • No downtime—no redness or bruising after treatment.
  • Recommended every 2-4 weeks.
• PICO Scarless and Poreless (S&P)
  • Ideal for those with enlarged pores, acne scars, rough skin texture, and scars.
  • After treatment, petechiae (small red spots) may appear, and deep scars may cause mild bruising (purpura), which typically resolves within 3-7 days.
  • Recommended every 4-6 weeks.
• Picolaser Tattoo
  • Suitable for tattoo removal on all colors, thanks to its multiple wavelength settings.
  • Recommended every 4-6 weeks.
• PICO Pink Lip
  • Designed for those with darkened lips.
  • Recommended every 2-4 weeks.
• PICO Pigment
  • Ideal for treating superficial and deep freckles.
  • After treatment, some patients may experience petechiae or scabbing, requiring 7-10 days of recovery.
  • Recommended every 4-6 weeks.

Does Laser Treatment Hurt?

• For brightening treatments, melasma reduction, and dark spot removal, patients may feel a mild snapping sensation on the skin (Pain score = 1/10), which is significantly less painful than Q-Switch Laser.
• For treating acne scars, enlarged pores, superficial and deep freckles, and tattoos, a higher energy setting is required. To minimize discomfort, a numbing cream is applied for about 30-45 minutes before the procedure (Pain score = 3/10).
• Additionally, a cooling air system is used during the treatment to enhance patient comfort and improve the overall experience.

Will My Face Bruise After Picosecond Laser Treatment? How Long Does Redness Last?

  It depends on the type of treatment being performed.

• For skin brightening, dark spot reduction, and melasma treatment, the skin may appear slightly pink for 6-24 hours. However, there will be no bruising, and no downtime is required. Makeup can be applied immediately after the procedure.
• For treating enlarged pores, acne scars, scars, and rough skin texture, the treated area may appear red and slightly swollen. Small pinpoint bleeding under the skin (petechiae) may occur, and deep acne scars may cause mild bruising (purpura). Redness and swelling will gradually subside, and scabs will naturally fall off within 3-7 days.

Does Laser Treatment Make the Skin Thinner?

  No, it does not. Picosecond Laser precisely targets pigmentation without damaging surrounding tissues. Instead of thinning the skin, it actually stimulates collagen and elastin production, making the skin thicker and more resilient over time. Naturally, the skin renews itself and sheds old cells every 28 days.

How Should I Prepare Before Getting a Picosecond Laser Treatment?

• Avoid excessive sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before the laser treatment.
• Inform your doctor before the treatment if you have any of the following:
  1. Current medications you are taking.
  2. Any known allergies, especially to topical anesthetics.
  3. Pre-existing medical conditions such as epilepsy, photosensitivity disorders, diabetes, or skin cancer.
  4. Pregnancy.
  5. A history of recurring herpes outbreaks.
  6. A history of having gold thread skin lifting treatments.
• Avoid laser treatment if you have any open wounds or unhealed abrasions.
• Postpone laser treatment if you have had botulinum toxin or filler injections within the past 2 weeks.

How Should I Take Care of My Skin After a Picosecond Laser Treatment?

• After the laser treatment, you must apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even if you are staying indoors. Use at least two finger-lengths of sunscreen to cover your face properly.
• Avoid direct and intense sunlight for at least 2 weeks. When going outside, use an umbrella or wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.
• Avoid exposure to extreme heat, such as saunas and hot baths, for at least 2 weeks after the laser treatment.
• Avoid facial massages, scrubbing, or any friction on the treated area for at least 1 week after the procedure.
• For the first 5 days after the laser treatment, cleanse your face gently and avoid harsh rubbing or excessive pressure.
• Avoid skincare products that contain skin-brightening agents or exfoliating ingredients, such as AHA, BHA, and retinol, for 1 week after the laser treatment.
• Apply any prescribed medications and take oral medications as directed by your doctor.
• For the PICO Bright and Rejuvenation treatment, there will be no scabbing or downtime, so you can apply makeup immediately after the procedure.
• For the PICO Scarless and Poreless treatment, some redness and pinpoint bleeding under the skin may occur, which will naturally fade within 3-7 days. Patients should avoid applying makeup for at least 1 day after the treatment.