Home / Treatments / Dermatology / Pico Toning

Laser · 피코토닝

Pico Toning in Apgujeong

Low-energy picosecond laser passes over the whole face to lighten melasma, brighten dull skin and even out tone over a course.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 피코토닝
  • Procedure time: 10-20 min
  • Anesthesia: Usually none
  • Sessions: 5-10 sessions 1-2 weeks apart
  • Downtime: None; slight redness for an hour
  • Results: Brightening after 2-3 sessions; melasma over 5-10
  • Lasts: Pigment may return without sun protection
  • Typical price: ₩70,000–₩150,000 (per session, full face, VAT extra)

What is Pico Toning?

Pico toning is a Korean treatment style that passes a picosecond laser, usually at 1064 nm, over the whole face at low energy. Devices include PicoPlus by Lutronic, PicoWay by Candela and PicoSure by Cynosure.

It is one of the most booked treatments in Apgujeong for melasma, post-acne marks and general brightening because there is no visible downtime and it can be repeated every 1 to 2 weeks.

How it works

Picosecond pulses break pigment into tiny fragments with very little heat, which reduces the risk of rebound darkening seen with stronger lasers. Repeated gentle sessions gradually clear pigment and improve tone.

Who it suits

  • Melasma
  • Post-acne brown marks
  • Dull or uneven tone
  • Mild freckles
  • Maintenance between stronger treatments

Who should skip it or wait

  • Recent tanning
  • Pregnancy
  • Expectation of full clearance in one session
  • Raised moles or lesions (need assessment)

Side effects and risks

  • Temporary redness
  • Mild dryness
  • Rare rebound pigmentation
  • Rare white spots with very frequent sessions

Aftercare

  • SPF 50 every day and reapply outdoors
  • Avoid scrubs and peels for 3 days
  • Moisturize well

Planning around your trip

A single pico toning session shows little change, so if you are only in Seoul for a week, book 2 sessions about 5-7 days apart and continue at home.

Dermatology clinics near Apgujeong

  • ID Hospital (아이디병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Wooridul Hospital (우리들병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 6 min walk from Cheongdam Station
  • CHAUM Clinic ((의)성광의료재단 차움의원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 9 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station
  • Nanoori Hospital (나누리병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 12 min walk from Hakdong Station
  • VIEVIS NAMUH Hospital (비에비스나무병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Eonju Station
  • Sangsang Clinic (상상의원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Doctors Dermatology Clinic (닥터스피부과의원)
    Dermatology, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Teunteun Hospital (튼튼병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Cheongdam Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Pico Toning price in Apgujeong

₩70,000–₩150,000
per session, full face, VAT extra

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Korea Experience price guide (Jan 2026). Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Full Pico Toning price breakdown →

Pico Toning questions

Is pico toning better than laser toning for melasma?

Pico toning uses shorter pulses with less heat, which some doctors prefer for melasma. Both work best as a course combined with sunscreen and sometimes oral tranexamic acid.

Can I do pico toning every week?

Many clinics schedule it every 1 to 2 weeks. Very frequent high-energy sessions can cause white spots, so follow the doctor's interval.

Will I peel after pico toning?

No, the skin usually looks normal within an hour.

Can men do pico toning?

Yes, it is common for men with sun spots and uneven tone.

Do I need numbing cream?

Usually not. It feels like quick light snaps.

Can I go in the sun right after pico toning?

You can go outdoors, but use SPF 50, reapply often and wear a hat, since UV can undo the progress.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.