Korean Picosecond Laser Device Guide: Wavelength, Indications & Prices for PicoWay, PicoSure, PicoPlus, Picocare Majesty

Picosecond laser treatments have become a “standard configuration” in Korean dermatology clinics. However, many people still struggle to choose between different devices — some say PicoWay delivers the best results, others find PicoSure gentler, and yet others note that PicoPlus is the only device approved specifically for melasma. While all are picosecond lasers, different devices use different wavelengths for different indications, leading to naturally different experiences and outcomes.

This article breaks down the mainstream picosecond laser devices available in Korea across four dimensions: 【wavelength, indications, pricing, and post-treatment care】.

◎Core Principles of Picosecond Laser: Photoacoustic Effect vs. Photothermal Effect

Traditional skin-toning lasers operate at nanosecond pulse widths (10⁻⁹ seconds) and rely primarily on the “【photothermal effect】” to destroy melanin using heat. Picosecond lasers operate at picosecond pulse widths (10⁻¹² seconds) and use the “【photoacoustic shockwave effect】” to instantly shatter melanin into dust-like fine particles, which are then metabolized and eliminated by macrophages. Because picosecond lasers do not rely on heat, they cause less damage to surrounding tissue, offering 【lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and shorter recovery time】.

◎Complete Breakdown of Mainstream Devices

PicoWay (Candela · USA)

Triple-Wavelength All-Rounder — by Cynosure, USA

【Wavelength Configuration】: 532nm / 785nm / 1064nm triple wavelengths. 532nm targets 【superficial pigmentation】 (freckles, sun spots, uneven skin tone); 785nm targets 【dermal melanin】 (melasma, zygomatic spots); 1064nm targets 【deep pigment deposits】 (acne scars, atrophic scars, nevus of Ota).

【Indications】: Freckles, sun spots, melasma, nevus of Ota, acne scars, wrinkles, tattoo removal.

Reference price: High-end imported device, approximately 200,000–500,000 KRW per session.

PicoSure (Cynosure · USA)

755nm Focus Lens Array Picosecond Laser — by Cynosure, USA

【Wavelength Configuration】: 755nm alexandrite picosecond laser. The 755nm wavelength has 【extremely high absorption by melanin】 and 【extremely low absorption by blood vessels (hemoglobin)】, selectively destroying melanin while 【minimizing vascular stimulation】. Particularly suitable for sensitive skin and those concerned about post-treatment redness.

【Indications】: Freckles, sun spots, melasma, acne scars, wrinkles, tattoo removal. Can also improve dark areas on elbows, knees, and underarms.

Reference price: Orta Clinic promotional price approximately 309,000 KRW per session. Seyeon Hospital: 230,000 KRW per session, 5-session package 990,000 KRW, 10-session package 1,950,000 KRW.

PicoPlus (Lutronic · Korea)

Only MFDS-Approved for Melasma — developed by Lutronic, Korea

【Wavelength Configuration】: 1064nm / 532nm / 595nm / 660nm 【four wavelengths】. Equipped with 6 handpieces, capable of addressing virtually all pigmentation disorders. Features 【picosecond + nanosecond dual pulse mode】.

【Indications】: Melasma, freckles, sun spots, nevus of Ota, acne scars, tattoo removal, and more. Especially suitable for melasma patients — this is currently the only device with official regulatory approval for melasma.

Reference price: Korean domestic product, affordable pricing. Seyeon Hospital: 55,000 KRW per session, 5-session package 250,000 KRW, 10-session package 450,000 KRW.

Picocare Majesty (WONTECH · Korea)

250ps Ultra-Short Pulse — by WONTECH, Korea

【Wavelength Configuration】: 532nm / 595nm / 660nm / 1064nm 【four wavelengths】. Far surpasses typical dual-wavelength systems, capable of handling a wider range of pigmentation and multi-colored tattoos.

【Technical Highlights】: World’s first 【250ps ultra-short pulse】 (standard picosecond lasers are approximately 450ps), resulting in less thermal diffusion and higher pigment fragmentation efficiency. Up to 【2GW peak power】. Dual focusing system generates LIOB effect, promoting collagen remodeling.

Reference price: High-end new device, typically priced higher than standard picosecond lasers.

Pico Extreme / PicoLO

Entry-Level Dual-Wavelength

【Wavelength Configuration】: Pico Extreme features 532nm/755nm/1064nm triple wavelengths; PicoLO features 1064nm/532nm dual wavelengths.

【Indications】: Freckles, sun spots, uneven skin tone, superficial pigmentation.

Reference price: Approximately 80,000–150,000 KRW per session.

◎Quick Device Comparison

◎Price Reference and How to Choose

【Entry-Level Trial Price】: Maypure Pico Toning first-time experience 【9,000 KRW】 (approximately 48 RMB). Beauty&Young single picosecond session 【80,000 KRW】 (approximately 430 RMB).

【Standard Single-Session Price】: PicoPlus single session 【55,000–250,000 KRW】; PicoSure single session 【230,000–309,000 KRW】; high-end imported devices (PicoWay) single session 【200,000–500,000 KRW】.

【Package Pricing】: 5-session packages typically 【10%–20%】 cheaper than cumulative single-session pricing.

【How to Choose:】

• 【Melasma as primary concern】: Choose PicoPlus, the only device with MFDS approval for melasma.

• 【Sensitive skin, concerned about redness】: Choose PicoSure, 755nm wavelength minimizes vascular stimulation.

• 【Mixed pigmentation types, seeking versatility】: Choose PicoWay, triple wavelengths provide the widest coverage.

• 【Seeking latest technology, sufficient budget】: Choose Picocare Majesty, 250ps ultra-short pulse + four wavelengths.

• 【Limited budget, first-time treatment】: Choose PicoPlus or Pico Extreme, Korean domestic devices offer excellent cost-effectiveness.

◎Post-Treatment Care: The Other Half of Results

Although picosecond lasers cause minimal thermal damage, post-treatment care remains critical.

• 【Sun protection is the top priority】: Strictly apply SPF 50+ sunscreen after treatment. For pigmentation removal treatments, continuous sun protection is recommended for up to 6 months post-treatment.

• 【Moisturizing and repair】: Skin tends to be dry after treatment; apply sufficient moisturizer or repair cream. Gently apply after cleansing, avoiding skin irritation.

• 【Avoid irritation】: Avoid sauna, steam bath, alcohol consumption, and strenuous exercise for 1 week post-treatment. Avoid irritating skincare products on the day of treatment.

• 【When to wash your face】: For non-ablative sessions (standard picosecond), gentle cold-water cleansing is acceptable the same evening; for ablative sessions, follow your doctor’s instructions.

The results of picosecond laser — 【50% depends on device selection and physician technique, 50% depends on post-treatment sun protection and care】. Choosing the right device without proper sun protection is a waste. The logic of Korean dermatologists is: 【Picosecond clears what’s already there; how you maintain results afterward is up to you】.

【Disclaimer:】

The information in this article is compiled from publicly available Korean sources, official brand releases, and industry reports. It is for reference only. For specific device selection, treatment plans, and pricing, please consult a professional physician through an in-person evaluation. This article does not constitute medical advice or endorsement of any brand or device.