What makes our clinic's laser toning different?

• 1. Precision treatment with over 2000 shots of energy We generally do not rush treatments with low power and few shots. By precisely delivering sufficient energy, we reduce skin irritation and can expect desired results.
• 2. Intensity adjustment tailored to pigment type and depth Various pigmentary lesions such as melasma, acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM), and blemishes all differ in their depth of occurrence and characteristics. Considering this, we carefully adjust the intensity and parameters for each lesion area, even in complex cases, applying energy cautiously for melasma and more aggressively for ABNOM.
• 3. Real-time adjustments based on skin reactions during treatment The treatment doesn't end just by applying the laser. Even during the treatment, we directly check skin changes with the patient using a mirror. If necessary, we meticulously adjust the laser's spot size, intensity, and even the handpiece on the spot to perform a precise, customized treatment.
• 4. Precise diagnosis using Mark-Vu diagnostic device We do not rely solely on intuition or experience for diagnosis. Using the Mark-Vu diagnostic device, we meticulously analyze the exact type of pigment, its distribution within the skin, and its depth. Based on these diagnostic results, we establish a suitable treatment plan for each patient.
• 5. Multi-layered approach to complex pigmentary lesions When melasma and acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM) appear simultaneously, focusing strongly on only one lesion can potentially worsen the other. At our clinic, we first stably manage and calm melasma, and then proceed with intensive management of ABNOM located in the dermal layer.

What's special about our clinic's laser toning?

Laser toning is a commonly used treatment for improving pigmentary disorders. However, treatment results can vary significantly depending on the equipment used, the number of shots applied, and the intensity of the treatment.

Various pigmentary disorders such as melasma, blemishes, and acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM) differ in their depth within the skin and the reaction of surrounding tissues. Therefore, a meticulous and precise plan before treatment is crucial.

1. Sufficient energy with over 2,000 shots

According to several research papers, low-power laser toning shows relatively safe yet effective treatment results within the range of 1500 to 2500 shots.

At our clinic, we typically perform sufficient irradiation with over 2,000 shots. We plan the treatment to achieve the desired effects without causing unnecessary skin irritation.

Simply operating the equipment alone makes it difficult to achieve the desired skin changes.

The number of shots, laser output, irradiation speed, spot size, and other factors must be meticulously adjusted to match each individual's pigment depth, distribution range, and skin sensitivity.

2. Customized toning considering disease characteristics

1) Melasma

Melasma is one of the common pigmentary disorders that tends to spread widely on both sides of the face.

Since melanocytes, which produce melanin pigment, are excessively activated, strong stimulation can actually worsen melasma.

At our clinic, we precisely identify the extent and depth of melasma using a Mark-Vu skin diagnostic device. Subsequently, we begin treatment using a toning laser with a short pulse duration of 5 nanoseconds (ns).

We strive to reduce the possibility of unwanted side effects by selectively destroying only melanosomes within cells, without directly stimulating melanocytes.

During the treatment, the attending doctor adjusts the laser intensity and areas requiring focus while looking at the mirror with the patient. To ensure no area is neglected, we replace handpieces or finely adjust parameters during the procedure.

The process involves checking skin changes with a mirror not only before treatment but also during and after the procedure.

2) Acquired Bilateral Nevus of Ota-like Macules (ABNOM)

This condition, like melasma, involves pigment located in the dermal layer of the skin, but it tends to require higher energy intensity than melasma.

If melasma and ABNOM appear simultaneously, a delicate and gentler approach is needed for melasma, while stronger energy should be applied to ABNOM. The technical expertise of the medical staff is crucial for simultaneously applying these two contrasting strategies.

Especially if a strong treatment is performed without first stably managing melasma, there is a possibility that existing melasma could worsen.

At our clinic, we provide a thorough differentiation and personalized treatment plan before the procedure. Through this process, we reduce the burden of unexpected side effects and delicately adjust the laser intensity to improve ABNOM lesions as well.

For ABNOM treatments as well, the medical staff directly customizes parameters after a Mark-Vu diagnosis. All factors, including spot size, number of shots, and output energy, are meticulously adjusted according to the skin type.

3) Other pigmentary lesions

Pigments that respond relatively quickly, such as lentigines, freckles, and blemishes, are easier to improve with the application of appropriate wavelengths. However, if these lesions appear along with melasma or ABNOM, the treatment process can become complex.

Even in such cases, accurate differentiation must precede, and a customized strategy is required for each session, checking the patient's skin reaction with a mirror and delicately adjusting the laser output and even the handpiece. Our clinic's laser toning is less about following a fixed procedure and more about melanin pigment treatment tailored to each individual's skin characteristics.

Pico Toning vs. Laser Toning: What's the Difference?

Pico toning has the theoretical advantage of being able to break down pigments more finely by utilizing extremely short laser pulses measured in picoseconds.

In contrast, laser toning operates in nanosecond units, delivering energy to the skin over a relatively longer duration.

Both toning treatments can be used to selectively destroy melanin pigment, brighten skin tone, and improve various pigmentary disorders such as melasma, blemishes, and acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM).

Due to the difference in laser irradiation time, pico toning may feel faster in its response speed during the initial 2-3 treatments. However, some research also suggests that the cumulative whitening effect after consistent treatment for 10 or more sessions is similar for both methods.

Laser toning is a clinically proven treatment method with over 20 years of history. It can be considered a more stable option, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like melasma that react sensitively to irritation.

Due to its characteristic of delivering high-intensity energy in a short time, pico toning may occasionally cause temporary redness or a stinging sensation after treatment.

Indeed, many clinical studies comparing the two treatment methods using the same 1064nm wavelength report no prominent significant differences in skin brightness improvement, reduction in melasma severity, or decrease in melanin index.

Consequently, what should be considered to expect laser toning effects comparable to pico toning?

For effective treatment, more than 10 repeated sessions are considered. This treatment method requires continuous management.

During the treatment, energy is adjusted by observing the skin reaction within the range of 1.0~2.0 J/cm². It is desirable to delicately adjust the energy according to the individual's skin condition.

It is recommended to apply a sufficient number of shots, at least 2000 shots, for each treatment. To achieve the desired results, the necessary number of shots must be ensured.

Maintaining a 1-2 week interval is effective. If the treatment interval becomes longer, the cumulative effect of the treatment may decrease.

It is important to receive treatment from skilled medical staff who can adjust in real-time according to the individual's skin type and treatment response. A delicate treatment plan tailored to each skin type is necessary.

When the above conditions are well met, various research results suggest that similar levels of results can be expected compared to Picotoning.

The contents mentioned above were written based on research papers.

Referenced papers include Medicina (Kaunas), 2022; Lasers in Medical Science, 2021; Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2021.

What is Laser Toning?

Laser toning is a treatment that gradually breaks down pigments deep within the skin by irradiating low-energy lasers multiple times, making the overall skin tone even.

This treatment differs from simply strongly removing pigments. Instead, it repeatedly applies subtle laser stimulation to gently break down melanin pigment and aid in the skin's regeneration process.

It can be applied to various pigmentary disorders such as melasma, freckles, and ABNOM (Acquired Bilateral Nevus of Ota-like Macules) without causing significant skin irritation. It is currently one of the popular pigment treatment methods.

1. Type of Laser Used: Q-switched Nd:YAG

Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is primarily used for laser toning.

The 1064nm wavelength of this laser can deeply penetrate into the upper dermis where melanin pigment is concentrated. It has the advantage of selectively targeting and destroying only pigments without damaging the skin surface.

It can protect the skin barrier while focusing on pigment removal. Therefore, it can be suitably used for individuals with sensitive or thin skin.

2. Inducing 'Tone-Up' through Low Energy and High Repetition

Unlike general pigment treatments that remove pigments with strong lasers in a single go, laser toning uses low energy to repeatedly irradiate the laser thousands of times.

This treatment method minimizes damage to skin tissue while gradually and finely destroying melanin particles. The decomposed melanin is then absorbed and expelled by our body's immune system (macrophages).

As a result, an even improvement in skin tone and a brighter complexion can be expected.

3. Dendrite Destruction and Removal of Intracellular Melanin

Laser toning not only breaks down pigments but also has the function of inhibiting the melanin production pathway itself.

The core of this action is the destruction of melanocyte dendrites.

Dendrites are pathways that transfer mature melanosomes (melanin carriers) produced by melanocytes to the epidermal layer of the skin.

When the laser damages these dendrites, melanin carriers are unable to move to the epidermis. This leads to the inhibition of new pigment formation on the skin surface.

Furthermore, melanin pigment accumulated inside melanocytes can be directly broken down. This can also help in clearing existing hyperpigmentation.

These actions primarily occur with lasers having short pulse durations, measured in 'nanoseconds' or 'picoseconds'.

Therefore, it acts as an important mechanism in treatments such as laser toning or picotoning.

3 Key Elements of Laser Toning

3 Main Treatment Principles of Laser Toning

Laser toning goes beyond simply eliminating pigments; it works by regulating the entire process from melanin production to its transport.

1. Breakdown and Removal of Existing Pigment Particles

For pigmentary disorders other than melasma, such as freckles or ABNOM (Acquired Bilateral Nevus of Ota-like Macules), improvement can be expected by removing melanin with appropriately controlled high energy settings.

However, melasma reacts sensitively to external stimuli, requiring very delicate control. Special care must be taken to prevent melanocytes from becoming over-activated due to excessive stimulation.

2. Inhibition of Melanosome Transport through Dendrite Destruction

By preventing melanosomes produced in pigment cells from moving to the epidermal layer of the skin, the formation of new hyperpigmentation is inhibited in advance.

3. Direct Breakdown of Intracellular Melanin within Melanocytes

The laser directly breaks down melanin pigment within melanocytes, contributing to a reduction in melanin concentration. Through this, a skin-brightening effect can be expected.

Expected Effects of Laser Toning

• 1. A tone-up effect that brightens skin tone can be expected. Subtle laser stimulation gently breaks down melanin pigment, helping dull skin gradually become clearer.
• Selectively destroys melanosomes without stimulating melanocytes. This can help improve sensitive melasma and hyperpigmentation.
• Pigmentation located in the dermal layer, such as ABNOM (Acquired Bilateral Nevus of Ota-like Macules), is deeper than melasma. By adjusting the customized intensity to reach dermal pigmentation, improvement of lesions can be expected.
• This principle involves destroying the dendritic sheath, which is the pathway for pigment migration. This inhibits melanin from emerging, suppresses pigment regeneration, and helps reduce concerns about recurrence.
• During the laser treatment process, skin regeneration is promoted, and an additional benefit of improved fine wrinkles and smoother skin texture can be expected.
• We use a method of multiple irradiations at low output. This minimizes skin irritation, allowing even those with sensitive skin to feel less burdened by the procedure.

Recommended for Laser Toning

• Those concerned about uneven and dull skin tone
• Those concerned about pigmented lesions like melasma, blemishes, and freckles gradually darkening or newly appearing
• Those with dermal pigmentation such as ABNOM (Acquired Bilateral Nevus of Ota-like Macules)
• Those with thin and sensitive skin who are considering pigment improvement treatments
• Those hoping for simultaneous improvement in pigmentation issues, fine wrinkles, and skin texture
• Those who want to continuously manage gradual skin changes while minimizing skin irritation

Laser Toning Procedure Steps

• STEP 1. Precise skin diagnosis using Mark-Vu. We accurately identify the depth and extent of pigmentation that is difficult to confirm with the naked eye.
• STEP 2. Establish an individual treatment plan through a 1:1 consultation with the director.
• STEP 3. After setting personalized parameters, proceed with laser toning (final confirmation with the director in front of a mirror before the procedure).
• STEP 4. During the procedure, reconfirm and check the target treatment areas using a mirror.
• STEP 5. After the procedure, check the treated area in a mirror, and we will provide guidance on the subsequent progress and aftercare methods.

A Message from the Chief Director

We understand that many people have long been troubled by pigmentation issues such as melasma or ABNOM.

It is not uncommon for individuals to feel anxious, wondering 'Can it really get better?' or 'Will it actually get darker?'

Therefore, we believe that pigment treatment should not be merely a procedure that solely uses machines.

We meticulously examine the skin and consider it a crucial principle to perform treatment with precise intensity on the necessary areas.

The treatment approach for pigmented lesions can vary depending on skin depth and sensitivity.

Laser toning should not be a haphazard procedure. We spare no effort for improvement through careful diagnosis and meticulous treatment. We will always do our best to help you achieve satisfactory results.

Post-Treatment Precautions

• ㆍCleansing and makeup are possible from the day of the procedure. It is particularly important to pay close attention to sun protection.
• ㆍAfter the procedure, we recommend paying extra attention to soothing and moisturizing irritated skin.
• ㆍSwelling or redness may appear after the procedure. Most subside gradually over time, but if they persist for several days, it is best to contact the clinic or visit for a check-up.