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Some people feel that their skin looks generally dull because of noticeable melasma, freckles, or blemishes whenever they look in the mirror.
Especially during periods of increased UV exposure, previously faint pigmentation can become more concerning. Laser toning is one of the treatments many people look into to improve these pigmentation concerns.
However, as laser equipment and delivery methods have become more diverse, many people wonder about the differences between conventional toning and pico toning, as well as which approach is suitable for melasma or blemishes.
Today, we will focus on the PicoPlus laser to explore how it targets pigmentation and why treatment plans should vary according to each person’s skin concerns.
Are Melasma and Blemishes All the Same Type of Pigmentation?
Not all brown pigmentation that appears on the face has the same cause or depth.
There are various types of pigmentation conditions, including melasma, freckles, blemishes, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The depth and distribution of the melanin pigment can also differ.
Therefore, when planning laser toning, it is important to first examine what type of pigmentation is present and at what depth, rather than simply trying to remove visible pigmentation with strong energy.
Melasma, in particular, can be sensitive to stimulation. Using excessive energy that does not suit the condition of the skin may cause unexpected reactions, such as the pigmentation becoming darker.
This is why the appropriate wavelength and energy should be selected after assessing the skin tone and the type and depth of the pigmentation.
PicoPlus Uses Multiple Wavelengths
PicoPlus is a laser device that can use two pulse modes: picosecond and nanosecond.
It also offers various wavelengths, including 532 nm, 595 nm, 660 nm, and 1064 nm, along with several types of handpieces. This allows treatment plans to be tailored to the type of pigmentation and the condition of the skin.
A picosecond refers to one-trillionth of a second.
Compared with the conventional nanosecond range, the pulse duration is much shorter. Energy can be delivered over a brief period to break pigmentation particles into smaller fragments.
Using these characteristics, pico toning can be applied to various pigmentation concerns, including melasma, blemishes, and freckles.
How Do Conventional Nanolasers and Pico Toning Differ?
One of the main differences between conventional nanosecond lasers and picosecond lasers is the length of time over which energy is delivered.
One nanosecond is one-billionth of a second, while one picosecond is one-trillionth of a second. In terms of time units, a picosecond is therefore 1,000 times shorter than a nanosecond.
Picosecond lasers use a photoacoustic effect, delivering energy over an extremely short period to break melanin pigment into very fine particles.
A key feature is that energy can be delivered to the target pigmentation while reducing the time available for heat to spread to the surrounding tissue.
Therefore, when considering laser toning, it is helpful to look beyond the name of the device and also check what type of pigmentation is being treated, as well as which wavelength and delivery method are used.
If You Are Concerned About Pores and Skin Texture as Well as Pigmentation
Pico lasers may be used not only for pigmentation management but also for concerns such as skin texture, pores, and fine lines, depending on the handpiece and delivery method used.
Creating fine stimulation in the skin may induce collagen remodeling during the recovery process.
For this reason, a pico fractional approach may also be used with the aim of improving enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and fine lines.
However, pico toning for pigmentation and the fractional approach for skin renewal should not be considered the same treatment.
Even when the same pico laser device is used, the handpiece, delivery method, and energy settings may vary according to the skin concern. It is therefore important to first identify the issue you most want to improve.
Stronger Treatment at Once Is Not Always the Answer
When blemishes are noticeable, it is easy to want to remove them all with one strong treatment.
However, the approach should vary depending on the type of pigmentation.
Pigmentation such as melasma, which may recur, should be managed at an appropriate intensity and interval while monitoring the condition of the skin. On the other hand, depending on the pigmentation, a different type of laser may be considered for certain blemishes or freckles with relatively clear borders.
Therefore, rather than simply deciding on a number of laser toning sessions and repeating the same method, it is important to monitor changes in the skin and pigmentation throughout the treatment process and adjust the energy and treatment direction accordingly.
People Who May Consider Pico Toning
If melasma, blemishes, or freckles repeatedly become noticeable, or if you are concerned that your overall skin tone looks dull, you may consider pico toning.
If you are also concerned about pores, skin texture, or fine lines in addition to pigmentation, a comprehensive management plan using a pico laser can be developed according to the current condition of your skin.
However, if your skin is sensitive or inflamed, or if the type of pigmentation is unclear, the condition of your skin should first be assessed thoroughly.
Melasma, in particular, can differ in distribution and depth from person to person, and responses to treatment may also vary. An individualized plan suited to the condition of your skin is therefore needed rather than a standardized treatment.
Even when pigmentation appears to be the same shade of brown, the appropriate treatment may differ depending on whether it is melasma, freckles, or blemishes.
PicoPlus can use various wavelengths and pulse modes, allowing it to be used to develop detailed treatment plans according to the condition of the skin and the characteristics of the pigmentation.
Therefore, if you are considering laser toning, it is important to first assess the type and depth of the pigmentation, as well as your skin tone and sensitivity, rather than simply comparing which device is most well-known.
If you have several concerns, including melasma and blemishes as well as pores or skin texture, consult thoroughly to assess the current condition of your skin. Then, consider developing a management plan by selecting the appropriate wavelength and treatment method.
