What is Pico Laser and Why is it Popular in Manila?
Pico laser (picosecond laser) is a type of laser that delivers extremely short pulses — measured in picoseconds (trillionths of a second). This ultra-short pulse duration generates a photoacoustic effect that shatters melanin and ink particles without the thermal damage of older nanosecond lasers.
For Filipino skin (Fitzpatrick types IV–V with high melanin), this is crucial. Traditional Q-switched nanosecond lasers heat the skin in ways that can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — meaning the laser treatment itself darkens the skin. Pico laser's minimal thermal effect dramatically reduces this risk.
Manila has embraced pico laser technology enthusiastically. Luminisce BGC, Flawless, Belo Medical Group, and K-Derma QC all operate pico laser machines. It's now the standard recommendation for melasma, acne hyperpigmentation, and tattoo removal in the Philippines.
Pico Laser Machines Available in Manila
- PicoWay (Syneron-Candela): Multiple wavelengths (1064nm, 532nm, 730nm). Used at Luminisce BGC. Considered one of the most versatile pico systems for dark skin tones.
- PicoSure (Cynosure): Original picosecond laser. 755nm wavelength with 532nm boost. Available at Belo Medical Group and select clinics. Excellent for stubborn pigmentation.
- Picoplus (Lutronic): Korean-made pico laser popular in Korean-style clinics in Manila. Multiple modes including toning, focus, and fracture. K-Derma QC uses this system.
- Discovery Pico (Quanta System): Available at some Healthway and hospital-affiliated clinics. Multiple wavelengths.
- Spectra Pico (Lutronic): Entry-level pico platform, more commonly seen at smaller clinics and chains.
- Helio II/Enlighten (Cutera): Dual-domain pico system. Less common in Manila but available at select premium clinics.
What Can Pico Laser Treat?
Pico laser is versatile and treats multiple skin concerns. For Filipino skin specifically: melasma (primary indication), post-acne hyperpigmentation, sun spots, freckles, cafe-au-lait spots, Hori's nevus, Ota's nevus (deeper pigmentation), and overall skin brightening/toning.
Pico laser is also excellent for acne scars when used in "fractional" mode (sending energy through micro-focused arrays that create controlled skin remodeling). This differs from the "toning" mode used for pigmentation.
Tattoo removal with pico laser is more effective than older Q-switched lasers — particularly for blue, green, and yellow pigments that are resistant to other wavelengths.
Pico Laser Session: What to Expect in Manila
Before the session: 4–6 weeks of topical priming (hydroquinone + sunscreen) is recommended by top Manila dermatologists to reduce melanin load and minimize PIH risk. Avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
During the session: Numbing cream is applied 30–45 minutes before. The laser head passes over the treatment area — you feel a snapping sensation (like a rubber band). Slight redness immediately after is normal. Session duration: 20–45 minutes depending on treatment area.
After the session: Redness and mild swelling for 1–3 days. Avoid sun completely for 7 days. Apply prescribed healing ointment for 3 days. SPF 50+ daily is mandatory. Some clinics recommend a follow-up 48-hour check.
Results timeline: Brightening may be visible within 1–2 weeks. For melasma, meaningful improvement takes 3–4 sessions (3 months). Maximum results at 6–8 sessions.
Pico Laser vs Q-Switched Laser: Which to Choose?
For most Filipino patients, pico laser is the superior choice — especially for melasma and hyperpigmentation. The reduced thermal damage means significantly lower PIH risk, which is the main complication concern on darker skin.
Q-switched laser is still effective and considerably cheaper (₱1,200–₱3,000 vs ₱3,500–₱10,000 for pico). For patients with fair-to-medium skin tone (Fitzpatrick III) or treating simple sun spots, Q-switched remains a viable option.
For anyone with prior bad experience with Q-switched (developed darker patches after treatment — a PIH reaction), switching to pico laser with an experienced operator is highly recommended.
