StarWalker MaQX · QX MAX
A high-power laser platform for hard-to-treat pigment

StarWalker MaQX · QX MAX is a high-power pigment laser with multiple wavelengths and pulse modes. The two are different generations of the device: they share the same mechanism, with slightly different beam characteristics, so we use whichever suits the condition of the pigment better. It switches wavelengths according to the depth of the lesion to break up pigment, and uses high-power single pulses to address dense pigment and tattoos. It is a device from Fotona of Slovenia, FDA cleared in the US and MFDS (Korean FDA) approved.

It is mainly used for difficult-to-treat pigmented lesions such as nevus of Ota and cafe-au-lait macules. It is also used for dense pigment that responded slowly to standard toning, or when tattoo removal is being considered. Even brown spots that look alike can differ in type and depth, so whether StarWalker is appropriate is first determined by a board-certified dermatologist's diagnosis.

The pulse method and power characteristics differ. Shallow, widespread pigment often favors PicoWay, while deep, dense lesions often favor StarWalker. Depending on the type and depth of pigment and your skin condition, it may be planned together with other lasers such as PicoWay or GentleMax Pro, so diagnosing the lesion comes first.

Yes, nevus of Ota, which has pigment in the dermis, can be treated with laser. However, it requires a long-term plan over multiple sessions, and response to treatment varies considerably between individuals. When we make the treatment plan, we also explain the possibility of recurrence.

Deep lesions need time for shattered pigment to be cleared and for the skin to recover, so we typically space sessions 4-8 weeks apart. If intervals are too short, stimulation may be added again to skin that has not fully recovered. The timing of the next session is adjusted based on the response to the previous one.

There is no fixed number; it depends on the type and depth of the lesion. Difficult-to-treat pigment often requires a long-term plan over many sessions. We advise you on the expected duration and number of sessions after assessing the lesion at consultation.

Many people feel moderate pain. Topical numbing cream is applied when needed, and the treatment takes about 10-30 minutes depending on the extent. How much pain you feel varies by area and individual.

Scabs and redness may form on the treated lesion and remain for several days. Scabs usually fall off within a few days to 1 week, and should be left to fall off naturally rather than picked. If you have an important event, we suggest choosing your treatment date with the scabbing period in mind.

Temporary pigmentation or redness may occur after treatment. Difficult-to-treat pigment can recur even after treatment, and the degree of response varies widely by lesion and individual. Before treatment, we explain the expected response and limitations in detail.

Avoiding sun exposure and tanning before and after treatment is important. Be sure to tell us at your visit if you have recently had strong UV exposure, are taking photosensitizing medication, or are pregnant. After treatment, apply sunscreen of SPF30 or higher daily and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

The cost depends on the lesion type, extent, and number of sessions, so it is confirmed after consultation. General reference prices can be found on the price list on our website. Consultations can be booked via Naver Booking, our KakaoTalk channel, or phone (+82-51-710-1891), and are also available via LINE.