- Duration
- Depends on the number of shots; explained after consultation
(numbing time separate) - Recommended sessions
- Usually several sessions about 4 weeks apart
(explained after consultation) - Downtime
- Redness and fine pinpoint crusts possible for a few days
Pico Fractional is a non-ablative fractional laser; changes build up over several sessions, and the degree depends on scar depth and skin condition. Deep scars may need other scar treatments alongside it, and the realistic goal is to make scars less noticeable rather than to remove them.
01Overview
Pico Fractional
Refining scars and skin texture by splitting a picosecond laser into fine points
Pico Fractional is a fractional laser treatment in which the PicoWay Resolve handpiece delivers a laser in picosecond (one-trillionth of a second) pulses, divided into a pattern of fine points.
- Duration
- Depends on the number of shots; explained after consultation
(numbing time separate) - Recommended sessions
- Usually several sessions about 4 weeks apart
(explained after consultation) - Downtime
- Redness and fine pinpoint crusts possible for a few days
- How long it lasts
- Improvements tend to last
(builds up over sessions / varies by individual)
02What to expect
Changes over time
The very short pulses create tiny stimulation points inside the dermis without significantly peeling the skin surface, and collagen regeneration takes place as these points heal.
01Right after treatment
Redness, warmth and fine pinpoint marks may be visible.
02Days 1–3
Pinpoint crusts or flaking form and then fall away. Please do not pick them off.
031–4 weeks
Redness subsides, and collagen regeneration continues in the dermis.
04Over the sessions
Over several sessions, changes in scar depth and skin texture build up.
05Follow-up
At each session, we review your response and adjust the combination with other scar treatments.
03Device & Technology
PicoWay · Resolve handpiece Device
Picosecond pulses
Very short pulses on the order of one-trillionth of a second, delivering energy while limiting the spread of heat.
Resolve handpiece
A fractional handpiece that delivers the laser divided into a uniform pattern of fine points.
Combined scar treatment
Used together with Subcision and TCA CROSS in a planned order, depending on the scar type.
04Procedure
How your visit goes
01Specialist diagnosis
We check the type and depth of your scars, your skin type and pigmentation.
02Planning
We set the energy and density, and decide the order alongside other scar treatments such as Subcision and TCA CROSS.
03Treatment
After topical numbing cream, the specialist applies the Resolve handpiece with settings adjusted for each area.
04Aftercare
We explain soothing, moisturising and sun protection, and when to schedule your next session.
Every procedure is performed directly by a board-certified dermatologist.
05Aftercare
Recovery & care
- 01
Day of treatment
Redness and warmth are possible. Do not rub; cleanse gently and moisturise well.
- 02
Crusting and flaking
Do not pick off pinpoint crusts. Letting them fall away naturally is important for preventing pigmentation.
- 03
1–4 weeks
Apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily, and reapply every two hours when outdoors.
- 04
Follow-up
The timing of your next session is decided based on how well you have recovered.
06FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What kind of treatment is Pico Fractional?
It is a treatment in which the Resolve handpiece of the PicoWay device delivers a picosecond laser divided into a pattern of fine points. It stimulates the inside of the dermis without significantly peeling the skin surface, encouraging collagen to be rebuilt during the healing process.
How is it different from PicoWay used for pigmentation?
It is the same PicoWay device, but the handpiece and purpose differ. Pigmentation treatment focuses on breaking pigment particles into fine pieces, whereas Pico Fractional uses the Resolve handpiece to divide energy into points and focuses on driving regeneration in the dermis.
How is it different from CO2 Fractional laser?
CO2 Fractional is an ablative laser that creates fine thermal channels in the skin, so it addresses scars directly with considerable strength, but the recovery period is also longer. Pico Fractional causes less surface damage and is less demanding to recover from, but changes build up over several sessions. Which suits you is decided after examination, based on scar depth, skin condition and your schedule.
What kinds of scars is it suited to?
It is mainly used for shallow, broad depressed scars and skin texture that has become rough along with pores. For narrow, deep scars like icepick marks, we often plan TCA CROSS alongside it, and for tethered scars that fade when the skin is stretched, Subcision.
Does it hurt, and is there a recovery period?
It is performed after topical numbing cream to reduce the stinging. Redness and fine pinpoint crusts may appear for a few days after treatment, but in most cases daily life is possible. The degree depends on the energy settings and your skin.
How many sessions do I need?
Improving scars and skin texture often requires several sessions, usually continued at intervals of about 4 weeks. The exact number of sessions and intervals are decided based on your scar condition and your response at each session.
Are there side effects, or cases where it is not suitable?
Redness, fine pinpoint bleeding and crusts may occur, and pigmentation may rarely occur. If you have infection or wounds in the treatment area, have recently tanned, are taking photosensitising medication or oral acne medication, or are pregnant, please be sure to tell us during your consultation.
How much does Pico Fractional cost, and how do I book?
The cost varies with the treatment area, number of shots and number of sessions, so it is confirmed after examination. Non-covered treatment fees can be found on the pricing page of our website. Booking and consultations are available via Naver Booking, our KakaoTalk channel, or phone (+82-51-710-1891), and you can also consult with us via LINE.
Fees
Pricing depends on area, number of shots and number of sessions, and is confirmed after consultation.
See the fee schedule →References 5
- Approval: PicoWay · Resolve handpiece · US FDA 510(k) — includes acne scar indication for the 1064nm Resolve · MFDS (Korean FDA) approved
- Manufacturer: Candela (USA)
- Korea MFDS medical device registry
- Korean Dermatological Association
- Reviewed by: Dr. Tae Hoon Kim, Medical Director
⚠ Cautions & contraindications
- Active infection or open wound in the treatment area
- Recent strong sun exposure or tanning (increased risk of pigmentation)
- Photosensitivity disorders or taking photosensitising medication
- Pregnancy (not recommended due to insufficient safety data)
- Currently taking or recently took oral acne medication (isotretinoin type)
- Please tell us during consultation if you are prone to keloids
Summary & comparison
| Treatment | Target layer | Main change | Duration | How long it lasts | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pico Fractional | — | Refining scars and skin texture by splitting a picosecond laser into fine points | Depends on the number of shots; explained after consultation (numbing time separate) | Improvements tend to last (builds up over sessions / varies by individual) | Redness and fine pinpoint crusts possible for a few days |
| PicoWay / PicoWay Resolve | L1 Epidermis | A picosecond laser that shatters pigment into fine particles | 10-30 minutes | Builds over a course of sessions (maintenance needed) | Toning: immediate return; spot and tattoo removal: small scabs for a few days |
| Potenza | L2 Dermis | RF microneedling that treats skin problems at the root | 30-40 minutes | Builds over a course of sessions (individual results vary) | Redness and fine scabs possible for 1-3 days |
| Vbeam Perfecta | — | A vascular laser that targets the vessels behind redness | 10-20 minutes | Builds over sessions (an ongoing-management treatment) | Temporary redness; rarely purpura (bruising) for a few days |
| Smoothbeam | — | An acne laser that goes straight to the sebaceous glands | 15-25 minutes | Builds over a course of sessions (individual results vary) | Temporary redness for a few hours to a day |
Treatments used for the same concern, placed side by side. Which one fits is decided in consultation after the layer is identified.
Aftercare
Pore · scar lasers
These treatments create micro-injuries to trigger regeneration, so care over the following days is directly linked to the result.
Recovery course
- Day of treatmentRedness, warmth and swelling are clearly visible. Focus on soothing and moisturising.
- Days 2–4Fine crusts and flaking appear. Do not peel them off.
- Days 5–7Flaking settles and makeup can be worn comfortably.
- Months 1–3Changes in scars and pores appear over this period. If sessions are split, keep to the interval.
Precautions
- Sun exposure: for at least 2 weeks; apply sunscreen daily
- Sauna, hot baths, strenuous exercise and alcohol: for 3–5 days
- Exfoliating products: for 2 weeks
When to contact the clinic
- Weeping, pus or fever
- Redness getting worse beyond 2 weeks
- Blisters similar to cold sores if you have a history of herpes
Next session · next visitSessions are usually 3–4 weeks apart. Scars often need several methods combined.
Full aftercare guide →
Next step
Wondering if this treatment fits you?
Tell us what concerns you, and after your consultation we will explain the suitable treatment, schedule and fees in detail.