Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation: The Science, Benefits, and What You Need to Know

You've tried everything for those stubborn dark spots. The expensive vitamin C serums. The chemical peels that left your face red for days. The hydroquinone cream your dermatologist prescribed. Maybe you even lit a metaphorical candle to the skincare gods, hoping for a miracle.

And yet, those patches remain. Mocking you from the mirror each morning.

Here's the truth: hyperpigmentation is one of the most stubborn skin concerns out there, and traditional treatments often fall short. But there's a reason dermatologists are increasingly turning to pico laser for hyperpigmentation as their go-to solution.

This isn't just another trendy treatment. It's backed by growing clinical evidence and offers something most topical treatments can't: precision at the cellular level. Whether you're dealing with acne scars that won't fade, melasma from hormonal changes, or sun damage accumulated over years, understanding how pico laser works could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the science, explores who it works best for, walks you through what to actually expect during treatment, and gives you the real-world details most articles skip over. Let's dive in.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, accumulates in certain areas of the skin. This creates dark patches or an uneven skin tone that can range from light brown to deep black, depending on your natural complexion and the underlying cause.

Common Causes

Post-inflammatory response: After your skin experiences trauma from acne, eczema, burns, or injury, melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) can go into overdrive, leaving behind dark marks long after the original condition heals.

UV exposure: Years of sun exposure trigger melanin production as a protective mechanism. The result? Sun spots, age spots, and freckles that cluster in sun-exposed areas like your face, hands, and shoulders.

Hormonal changes: Melasma, often called the "pregnancy mask," appears as symmetrical patches on the face due to hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, birth control use, or menopause.

Medications and medical conditions: Certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and conditions like Addison's disease can trigger pigmentation changes.

Risk Factors

Chronic sun exposure without adequate protection remains the number one risk factor. But other contributors include uncontrolled acne, overuse of harsh skin-lightening creams that damage the skin barrier, and genetic predisposition. People with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV-VI) are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation because their melanocytes are naturally more reactive.

📊 Key Data: Studies show hyperpigmentation is one of the top three most reported dermatological issues worldwide, affecting people across all skin types and ages (PubMed).

Traditional Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

Before pico laser became widely available, patients had limited options, each with its own drawbacks.

Topical agents: Hydroquinone, the gold standard for decades, works by inhibiting melanin production. But it can cause irritation, rebound hyperpigmentation when stopped, and there are concerns about long-term safety. Alternatives like retinoids, vitamin C, kojic acid, and azelaic acid are gentler but require months of consistent use with often unpredictable results.

Chemical peels: Glycolic acid and salicylic acid peels remove the top layers of skin, encouraging cellular turnover. They work well for superficial pigmentation but carry risks of irritation, temporary redness, and incomplete results, especially for deeper pigment.

Microneedling: This treatment creates controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production and allow better penetration of topical treatments. While effective for texture and some pigmentation, it requires careful microneedling aftercare and multiple sessions.

The common thread? These treatments work on the surface or rely on the skin's gradual turnover process. None of them can target pigment particles directly at the cellular level, which is where pico laser changes the game entirely.

What is a Pico Laser? How It Works Scientifically

Pico laser represents a fundamental shift in how we approach pigmentation treatment. The technology delivers ultra-short pulses of energy measured in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second). To put that in perspective, a picosecond is to one second what one second is to 31,700 years.

The Mechanism

When these incredibly brief energy pulses hit pigment particles in your skin, they create a photoacoustic effect. Instead of heating the pigment (which can damage surrounding tissue), the rapid pulses shatter the pigment into microscopic fragments, almost like turning a boulder into sand.

Your body's immune system then recognizes these tiny fragments as debris and gradually clears them through the lymphatic system. This process happens naturally over the weeks following treatment.

Why Picoseconds Matter

Traditional lasers use nanosecond pulses (one billionth of a second), which are still incredibly fast but rely more on photothermal action (heat). The extra speed of picosecond technology means:

• More precise targeting of pigment without affecting surrounding tissue
• Less heat generation, reducing the risk of burns or new pigmentation
• Ability to break down pigment into smaller particles that clear faster
• Safer treatment for darker skin tones

🧪 Study Reference: Research published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology demonstrates that picosecond lasers effectively reduce melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with fewer side effects compared to traditional Q-switched lasers.

What Does a Pico Laser Session Actually Feel Like?

This is the question everyone wants to know but most articles skip over. Let's get real about the experience.

Pain Level

Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin repeatedly. It's uncomfortable but generally tolerable. The pain level varies depending on the treatment area. Bony areas like the forehead and under-eye region tend to be more sensitive than fleshy areas like cheeks.

Your provider will likely apply a topical numbing cream 30-45 minutes before treatment, which significantly reduces discomfort. Some clinics also use cooling devices during the procedure to minimize pain.

Session Duration

A typical facial treatment takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Smaller, targeted areas like hyperpigmentation around the mouth might only take 10 minutes. Full-body areas like the back require 45-60 minutes.

Immediate Aftermath

Right after treatment, your skin will look red and feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn. Some people develop pinpoint bleeding or petechiae (tiny purple spots) that resolve within a day or two. Any swelling typically subsides within 24-48 hours.

The Timeline from Consultation to Results

Week 0: Initial consultation – Your dermatologist assesses your skin type, pigmentation severity, and medical history. They'll discuss realistic expectations and create a treatment plan.

Weeks 1-2: First treatment – After the session, expect redness and possibly some darkening of the pigmented areas before they lighten. This is normal as your body begins breaking down the shattered pigment.

Weeks 3-6: Second treatment – You'll start noticing gradual lightening. The pigmented areas may flake slightly as damaged skin sheds.

Weeks 8-12: Third treatment – Results become more visible. Many patients see 40-60% improvement by this stage.

Months 4-6: Maintenance phase – Depending on your initial severity, you may need 1-2 additional sessions. By month six, you should see your final results, with continued subtle improvement as your skin completes its renewal cycle.

Choosing a Qualified Provider: Red Flags to Avoid

Not all clinics offering pico laser are created equal. Here's what to look for and what to run from:

Green flags:

• Board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon performing the treatment
• Clinic uses FDA-cleared devices (PicoSure, PicoWay, Enlighten)
• Provider asks detailed questions about your medical history and sun exposure
• Clear before-and-after photos of patients with similar skin tones to yours
• Transparent pricing with no pressure to commit immediately
• Comprehensive aftercare instructions provided in writing

Red flags:

• Treatments performed by aestheticians or technicians without direct physician supervision
• Prices significantly lower than market average (likely using outdated equipment or undertrained staff)
• Promises of complete pigment removal in one session
• No patch test offered for darker skin tones
• Vague answers about which specific laser device they use
• Aggressive sales tactics or package deals that seem too good to be true

Trust your instincts. If something feels off during the consultation, it probably is.

Pico Laser for Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is perhaps where pico laser shines brightest. Those stubborn brown marks left behind after acne breakouts can linger for months or even years with topical treatments alone.

Pico laser targets the clustered melanin deposits that form during the inflammatory healing process. Because PIH pigment typically sits in the upper to mid-dermis, the precision of picosecond pulses allows for effective treatment without triggering additional inflammation, which is crucial since inflammation is what caused the pigmentation in the first place.

Patients with acne-prone skin often worry about post-laser breakouts, but pico laser doesn't disrupt the skin barrier the way ablative treatments do, making it a safer option for those still managing active acne alongside existing scarring.

Pico Laser for Face Pigmentation

Facial pigmentation from sun damage, melasma, or freckles responds particularly well to pico laser. The face receives the most sun exposure over a lifetime, making it the most common area for treatment.

The versatility of pico laser allows dermatologists to adjust settings for different facial zones. The forehead and cheeks, which have thicker skin, can tolerate slightly higher energy levels. The delicate skin around the eyes requires more conservative settings.

One advantage of treating facial pigmentation with pico laser is the ability to achieve overall brightening and tone improvement through a technique called pico toning, which we'll discuss later.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Around Mouth

Perioral hyperpigmentation, those darker patches around the mouth, can result from hormonal changes, sun exposure, or scarring from conditions like perioral dermatitis. This area is notoriously difficult to treat with topical agents because the skin is thin and sensitive.

Pico laser offers a gentler approach that doesn't irritate this delicate zone the way harsh bleaching creams or aggressive peels might. The key is working with a provider experienced in treating perioral areas, as the proximity to mucous membranes requires careful technique.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Under Arms

Underarm discoloration is incredibly common, often caused by friction from clothing, repeated shaving, deodorant ingredients, or hormonal factors. Many people feel self-conscious about this area, especially during summer months.

Traditional bleaching creams can be irritating and need constant reapplication. Pico laser provides a more permanent solution by directly addressing the melanin deposits causing the darkening. Because underarm skin is less sun-exposed than facial skin, results often appear faster and last longer with proper care.

The treatment is safe and well-tolerated in this area, though patients should plan to avoid shaving for a few days post-treatment and switch to gentle, fragrance-free deodorants during the healing period.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Bikini Area

Intimate area hyperpigmentation from ingrown hairs, shaving irritation, or natural friction can impact confidence. The bikini area presents unique challenges due to sensitivity and higher infection risk if proper aftercare isn't followed.

Pico laser effectively reduces pigmentation in this zone, but success depends heavily on meticulous post-care. Patients must keep the area clean, dry, and free from tight clothing or excessive sweating for several days after treatment. Hair removal should be paused for at least two weeks pre and post-treatment to minimize irritation.

Choose a provider who regularly performs treatments in this area and can discuss specific hygiene protocols with you openly.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation on Body

Body hyperpigmentation from back acne scars, chest sun damage, or discoloration on arms and legs responds well to pico laser, though treatment considerations differ from facial areas.

Body skin is often thicker, which can mean pigment sits deeper and requires more sessions to achieve comparable results. The flip side is that body skin tends to heal faster and with less visible redness than facial skin.

Sun protection after treatment becomes especially important for commonly exposed areas like arms and shoulders. Many dermatologists recommend scheduling body treatments during fall or winter months when you can more easily cover treated areas.

Pico Laser for Under Eye Pigmentation

Dark circles under the eyes are complex because they can be caused by several factors: pigmentation, thin skin showing underlying blood vessels, loss of volume, or a combination. Pico laser specifically addresses pigment-based dark circles, not vascular or structural causes.

The under-eye area requires the most skill and precision. The skin here is the thinnest on the body, and the proximity to the eyes means only experienced dermatologists should perform this treatment. Conservative energy settings are essential to avoid complications.

Realistic expectations are crucial. If your dark circles are primarily vascular (you can see blue or purple tones and veins), pico laser won't be the right solution. A skilled provider will help you identify the cause before recommending treatment.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Results

Let's talk about realistic expectations because this matters more than any marketing promises.

Early results: Within 2-3 sessions, most patients notice their hyperpigmentation beginning to lighten. The treated areas may initially darken for 7-10 days before fading, which can be alarming if you're not prepared for it. This temporary darkening is actually a positive sign that the treatment is working.

Mid-treatment results: By sessions 3-4, you should see noticeable improvement, typically 40-60% reduction in pigmentation intensity. Some areas respond faster than others. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation tends to clear quicker than melasma, which can be stubborn.

Long-term results: Final outcomes emerge 3-6 months after completing your treatment series. Your skin continues improving during this period as cellular turnover completes its cycle and residual pigment clears.

Maintaining results: This is where aftercare products become genuinely important. Supporting your skin's healing process with the right ingredients can accelerate recovery and enhance results. Products containing exosomes, growth factors, and peptides help optimize cellular communication and tissue repair after laser treatment. Exosomes, in particular, are tiny vesicles that carry proteins and genetic material between cells, effectively enhancing the skin's natural healing signals. When applied post-laser, exosome serums can help reduce inflammation, support collagen production, and potentially improve the overall quality of your results. That said, the laser does the heavy lifting - these products are supporting actors, not the main event.

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) is non-negotiable. Even brief sun exposure can trigger new pigmentation and undo your results.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Dark Skin

This deserves special attention because historically, laser treatments have been risky or ineffective for darker skin tones.

Traditional lasers often caused paradoxical hyperpigmentation in Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI, making the problem worse rather than better. The heat generated by older technology would trigger melanocytes to produce even more pigment as a protective response.

Pico laser's photoacoustic mechanism dramatically reduces this risk. The minimal heat generation means darker skin can be treated more safely. However, it's not entirely risk-free. Finding a provider with extensive experience treating darker skin tones is essential.

The American Academy of Dermatology confirms that picosecond lasers carry less risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin compared to Q-switched lasers, but conservative treatment protocols and proper aftercare remain critical.

Test spots on a small, inconspicuous area before treating larger zones can help assess your skin's response and minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Cost

Let's address the elephant in the room: pico laser isn't cheap, and understanding why helps you evaluate whether it's worth the investment.

Average Pricing

Expect to pay $300-$800 per session in the United States, with significant variation based on several factors:

Geographic location: Major metropolitan areas with high costs of living (New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco) typically charge at the higher end. Smaller cities may offer more affordable rates.

Provider credentials: Board-certified dermatologists generally charge more than medical spas, but you're paying for expertise that significantly impacts safety and results.

Device type: Clinics using newer, FDA-cleared devices like PicoSure or PicoWay may charge premium rates compared to generic picosecond lasers.

Treatment area size: Treating isolated spots costs less than full-face treatments. Body areas requiring longer session times naturally cost more.

Package Deals and Financing

Most clinics offer package discounts when you commit to multiple sessions upfront. A typical package might be 4-6 sessions with 10-20% savings compared to paying per session. While this can provide value, don't feel pressured to commit before seeing how your skin responds to an initial treatment.

Many practices now offer financing through companies like CareCredit or Cherry, allowing you to split payments over 6-24 months. Just be aware of interest rates and terms before committing.

Insurance Coverage

Here's the reality: pico laser for hyperpigmentation is considered cosmetic, which means insurance won't cover it. Even if your pigmentation causes psychological distress, standard health insurance policies exclude cosmetic laser treatments.

The exception might be certain cases of melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation directly related to a medical condition your insurance is treating, but approval is rare and requires extensive documentation from your dermatologist.

Is It Worth the Cost?

That depends on your individual situation. Consider:

• How much you've already spent on topical treatments that haven't worked
• The psychological impact of your hyperpigmentation on your quality of life
• Your realistic expectations (pico laser significantly improves but rarely completely eliminates stubborn pigmentation)
• Your ability to commit to proper aftercare and sun protection

For many patients, the investment proves worthwhile when they consider years of unsuccessful topical treatments and the confidence boost from clearer skin.

Pico Laser for Hyperpigmentation Side Effects

Understanding potential side effects helps you make an informed decision and recognize when something requires immediate attention.

Common, Expected Side Effects

Immediate post-treatment (days 1-3):

• Redness and warmth similar to sunburn
• Mild swelling, especially around sensitive areas like the eyes
• Tingling or tenderness in treated areas
• Temporary darkening of pigmented spots (this is normal and indicates the treatment is working)

Short-term (week 1-2):

• Pinpoint scabbing or crusting over treated spots
• Flaking or peeling as damaged skin sheds
• Temporary dryness or tightness
• Mild bruising, particularly after under-eye treatments

These side effects are part of the normal healing process and should resolve without intervention beyond gentle skincare and sun protection.

Rare but Serious Complications

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Ironically, the treatment meant to reduce pigmentation can sometimes cause new pigmentation if your skin is irritated, you get sun exposure too soon, or the settings were too aggressive for your skin type. This is more common in darker skin tones and typically resolves over time but may require additional treatment.

Hypopigmentation: Excessive treatment or improper settings can destroy too many melanocytes, leaving lightened patches. This is more difficult to correct than hyperpigmentation and may be permanent.

Blistering or burns: Rare with experienced providers but can occur if energy settings are too high or if you have underlying skin sensitivity that wasn't identified during consultation.

Infection: Any time the skin barrier is compromised, infection becomes possible. Proper aftercare and hygiene minimize this risk.

Scarring: Extremely rare with non-ablative pico laser but theoretically possible if the skin is traumatized or if you pick at scabs during healing.

When to Contact Your Provider

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that isn't controlled by over-the-counter pain relievers
• Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever)
• Blistering or open wounds
• Allergic reaction to post-care products (severe itching, hives, swelling)

Who Should Avoid Pico Laser

Not everyone is a good candidate for pico laser treatment. Being honest about contraindications protects your safety and prevents wasted money on treatments that won't work for you.

Absolute Contraindications

Active skin infections: Any bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in the treatment area must be completely resolved before proceeding. This includes active acne cysts, herpes outbreaks, or impetigo.

Keloid tendency: If you have a history of keloid scarring, laser treatments carry significant risk of triggering new keloid formation.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: While there's no definitive evidence that laser treatments harm pregnancies, the lack of safety data means most dermatologists won't treat pregnant or breastfeeding patients.

Recent isotretinoin use: If you've taken Accutane (isotretinoin) within the past 6-12 months, your skin may have impaired healing capacity, increasing the risk of scarring.

Photosensitizing medications: Certain antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones), St. John's Wort, and other medications increase your skin's sensitivity to light and energy, raising the risk of burns or adverse reactions.

Active autoimmune skin conditions: Conditions like lupus, which can cause photosensitivity, may be exacerbated by laser treatment.

Relative Contraindications

Unrealistic expectations: If you expect one session to completely eliminate deep, years-old pigmentation, you'll be disappointed. Candidness during consultation prevents frustration later.

Inability to avoid sun exposure: If your job or lifestyle makes strict sun protection impossible, pico laser results won't last, and you risk making pigmentation worse.

Very recent sun exposure or tan: Tanned skin has elevated melanin levels throughout, which can absorb laser energy and cause burns. Wait at least 4-6 weeks after sun exposure or tanning bed use.

Limited financial resources: If paying for a full treatment series will cause financial stress, it's better to wait until you're in a better position. Stopping mid-treatment won't give you the results you're hoping for.

Pico Laser vs Q Switch for Hyperpigmentation

Understanding the differences between these technologies helps clarify why many dermatologists have shifted their preference to pico laser.

Q-switch lasers remain excellent for certain applications, particularly tattoo removal and some superficial pigmentation. However, for hyperpigmentation that hasn't responded to other treatments or for patients with darker skin tones, pico laser's superior precision and safety profile make it the preferred choice.

Pico Laser vs CO2 Laser for Hyperpigmentation

These are fundamentally different treatments, and understanding that helps you know which, if either, is right for you.

CO2 laser is more aggressive and resurfaces the entire skin, which can improve pigmentation as a secondary benefit but comes with substantial downtime and risk. Pico laser specifically targets pigment without removing skin layers, making it safer and more appropriate when pigmentation is the primary concern.

Some patients ultimately need both: CO2 for deep scarring and texture, followed by pico laser to address any residual pigmentation. Your dermatologist can help you determine the best approach for your specific concerns.

Aftercare: Do's and Don'ts

Your results depend as much on how you care for your skin post-treatment as on the treatment itself. Here's your comprehensive aftercare roadmap.

First 24-48 Hours: Immediate Care

DO:

• Keep the treated area clean with gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
• Apply ice packs wrapped in a soft cloth for 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
• Sleep with your head elevated to minimize facial swelling
• Stay well-hydrated
• Take acetaminophen if you experience discomfort (avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, which can increase bruising)

DON'T:

• Touch, pick, or scratch treated areas
• Apply makeup (wait 24 hours minimum, 48 hours ideally)
• Use any active ingredients (retinoids, acids, vitamin C)
• Exercise or do anything that causes heavy sweating
• Take hot showers, baths, or visit saunas
• Consume alcohol, which can increase swelling and bruising

Week 1: Active Healing Phase

DO:

• Wash your face twice daily with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser
• Apply a bland, fragrance-free moisturizer several times daily
• Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every two hours if going outside
• Let any scabs or flaking skin fall off naturally
• Continue sleeping with head elevated if swelling persists

DON'T:

• Exfoliate, either physical or chemical
• Use any products containing retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide
• Get direct sun exposure, even with sunscreen
• Pick at crusting or peeling skin
• Apply any new skincare products you haven't used before

Weeks 2-4: Continued Healing

DO:

• Continue religious sun protection (this cannot be emphasized enough)
• Gradually reintroduce gentle active ingredients if your provider approves
• Support your skin's healing with quality serums containing growth factors, peptides, or exosomes to optimize cellular repair and reduce recovery time
• Maintain excellent hydration both topically and internally

DON'T:

• Resume aggressive exfoliation or intensive treatments
• Use tanning beds (never, actually)
• Skip sunscreen, even on cloudy days
• Schedule other facial treatments without consulting your provider

Long-Term Maintenance

DO:

• Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily, reapplying every two hours during sun exposure
• Wear wide-brimmed hats and seek shade during peak UV hours
• Maintain a consistent skincare routine focused on hydration and protection
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended
• Consider periodic maintenance treatments to sustain results

DON'T:

• Assume your results are permanent without ongoing protection
• Neglect sun protection just because your pigmentation has cleared
• Wait until pigmentation returns before doing maintenance treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

Does pico laser work for hyperpigmentation?

Yes, multiple clinical studies confirm pico laser's effectiveness for various types of hyperpigmentation, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and sun-induced pigmentation. Success rates vary based on pigmentation type, depth, and individual factors, but most patients see 40-80% improvement after a complete treatment series.

Which pico laser is best for hyperpigmentation?

FDA-cleared devices with the most clinical data include PicoSure (by Cynosure), PicoWay (by Syneron Candela), and Enlighten (by Cutera). All three have proven track records. The "best" device is less important than having a skilled, experienced provider who understands how to adjust settings for your specific skin type and pigmentation.

Is pico laser for hyperpigmentation permanent?

Results can be long-lasting, but "permanent" is complicated. The laser clears existing pigmentation, but it doesn't prevent new pigmentation from forming. Ongoing sun exposure, hormonal changes, or skin inflammation can trigger new hyperpigmentation over time. With proper sun protection and maintenance care, many patients maintain their results for years, though periodic touch-up treatments may be beneficial.

How many sessions of pico laser for hyperpigmentation are required?

Most patients need 3-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. Superficial pigmentation may respond in fewer sessions, while deep, stubborn pigmentation (especially melasma) may require more. Your dermatologist will assess your progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

How much does laser pico cost?

Individual sessions typically range from $300-$800, with full treatment series costing $1,500-$4,500 depending on the factors discussed earlier (location, provider credentials, treatment area, device type). Package deals often provide 10-20% savings compared to per-session pricing.

What is the best laser to remove hyperpigmentation?

For most types of hyperpigmentation, especially stubborn cases and those in darker skin tones, pico laser offers the best combination of effectiveness, safety, and minimal downtime. Q-switch lasers remain viable for superficial pigmentation. The "best" choice depends on your specific pigmentation type, depth, skin tone, and tolerance for downtime.

Can Pico be used on dark skin?

Yes, pico laser is significantly safer for Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI compared to older laser technologies. The photoacoustic mechanism minimizes heat generation, reducing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However, treatment still requires conservative energy settings, experienced providers, and careful monitoring. Test spots and gradual treatment approaches help ensure safety in darker skin tones.

Can you do Pico laser when pregnant?

No, pico laser treatment is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Although there's no direct evidence that laser energy harms pregnancy, the lack of safety studies means the medical community advises waiting until after pregnancy and breastfeeding conclude. Hyperpigmentation often worsens during pregnancy due to hormonal changes (melasma), but it may improve postpartum, making it better to wait and assess before pursuing treatment.

What is a Pico Toning Laser for Hyperpigmentation?

Pico toning is a gentler treatment mode that uses lower-energy picosecond laser pulses delivered across the entire treatment area, rather than targeting individual dark spots. Instead of shattering concentrated pigment clusters, it works by gradually stimulating cellular turnover and collagen production while gently reducing melanin throughout the skin, creating an overall brightening effect and more even tone. This approach is ideal for patients seeking general facial luminosity, those with melasma who need overall tone improvement alongside spot treatment, or anyone looking for a "glow-up" with virtually no downtime - most people experience only mild pinkness that fades within hours.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist before starting any new skincare treatment, especially if you have pre-existing skin conditions or are pregnant/nursing.