Treatment Guides
Melasma and Dark Spots: What to Discuss Before Pico Toning
Before choosing a number of sessions, discuss the type of pigmentation, previous treatments and skin reactions in a pico toning consultation.
Do brown marks remain noticeable after summer, or does your skin tone look uneven in photographs? When considering pico toning, start by identifying the pigmentation you want to address rather than asking only how many sessions you need.
At RE:NINE Clinic, a pigmentation consultation considers your current skin, previous reactions and everyday sun exposure. Similar-looking brown marks may need different approaches.
Identify the marks before choosing treatment
Spread-out pigmentation, individual spots and marks left after acne can have different causes. Photos and searches cannot establish a diagnosis; have a clinician assess your skin.
Melasma does not have one universal laser solution. Sun protection and other treatments may form part of an individual plan. See the American Academy of Dermatology’s melasma guidance.
Choose a plan for your skin, not just a treatment name
Pico toning is a laser treatment used in pigmentation and skin-tone care. The same name does not mean the same approach suits every mark or skin type. Ask what the treatment is targeting and how your response will be reviewed.
Assess the extent of pigmentation and your skin condition before fixing sessions or intensity. If you also have concerns about firmness, several treatments do not automatically need to be performed together.
Prepare four things for your consultation
- When the marks appeared and when they became more noticeable.
- Previous laser treatments or peels, and any redness, irritation or pigment changes afterward.
- Current skincare products, medicines and relevant health information, including pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Outdoor activities, travel or photography dates, and which changes matter most to you.
Earlier photographs taken in similar lighting can help. Do not stop prescribed medicines on your own or introduce unusually strong new skincare before the consultation.
Discuss recovery and changes in pigmentation
Redness or warmth can occur after laser treatment, and pigmentation may temporarily look darker. Reactions depend on the procedure and individual skin. Contact the clinic if pain or skin changes are unexpectedly severe or persistent. See the AAD’s information on treating dark spots.
Do not judge results only by immediate brightness or assume every later session should use identical conditions. Follow your clinic’s care instructions and review schedule so the plan can be adjusted to your response.
Include sun protection before and after treatment
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, hats and shade. Avoid products that sting, and follow the sunscreen’s reapplication instructions. See the AAD’s everyday melasma care guidance.
If your trip involves many outdoor activities, discuss whether treatment and aftercare fit your plans. Choose a plan you can continue to follow after the consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How many pico toning sessions will I need?
There is no single number for everyone. The type and extent of pigmentation, skin condition and previous reactions inform a plan that may change with progress. A particular result within a set number of sessions cannot be guaranteed.
Can melasma and other dark spots be treated in the same way?
Not always. Even marks appearing together may have different causes and conditions. Assessment comes before choosing treatment and care.
Once marks fade, will they stay away?
Permanent results cannot be guaranteed. Sun exposure and individual conditions may make pigmentation noticeable again, so ongoing care and review remain important.
Prepare for a skin-tone consultation at RE:NINE Clinic
Tell us which areas concern you, your treatment history and important dates. Suitability for pico toning, whether to proceed and the specific plan are decided through a medical consultation.
Book a skin-tone and pigmentation consultation
2F, Seoul Center Building, 116 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul. Near Exit 6 of City Hall Station, subway Lines 1 and 2.
Weekdays 10:30–20:30; Saturdays and South Korean public holidays 10:30–17:00. Closed on Sundays and on the day of Seollal and Chuseok. Confirm appointment availability and closures before visiting.
This article provides general treatment information. Effects, skin reactions and recovery vary by individual. Clinic photographs illustrate the facilities, not treatment results.