Pico laser is the gold-standard non-ablative laser for melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and skin texture in Asian skin. This guide explains the four major devices used in Bangkok, what each is best for, and current pricing.
Highlight: This page uses VERZO's consultation-first article template. The most useful next step is to understand fit, timing, safety, and follow-up before choosing any treatment.
30-Second Summary
This guide helps patients scan the key decision points before reading deeply.
Focus on:
- fit: whether the treatment matches your anatomy
- timing: whether your schedule allows normal recovery
- safety: what the doctor needs to check first
- aftercare: what to do after leaving the clinic
- follow-up: how to contact the team if you are traveling
Key Consultation Questions
Before booking, ask:
- What is causing the concern I see?
- Which options fit my anatomy and why?
- What result is realistic for me?
- What side effects or downtime should I plan for?
- What should I avoid before and after treatment?
- How does follow-up work after I leave Bangkok?
What This Topic Usually Covers
- Medical Education: a topic to discuss during consultation
- Pico Laser: a topic to discuss during consultation
- Pigmentation: a topic to discuss during consultation
- Melasma: a topic to discuss during consultation
- Asian Skin: a topic to discuss during consultation
- 2026: a topic to discuss during consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pico laser cost in Bangkok?
At VERZO CLINIC Bangkok, pico laser starts at ฿5,000 per session for a small-area treatment and ฿8,000-15,000 for a full-face session, depending on the specific device (PicoSure, PicoWay, PicoPlus, or Discovery Pico) and the patient's indication (melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun spots, tattoo removal, or skin texture). Most pigmentation protocols use 3-6 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart.
Which pico laser is best for melasma?
For Asian melasma, the 1064 nm wavelength of PicoSure and PicoPlus is generally preferred because it penetrates deep without thermally damaging the epidermis. PicoWay's 1064/532 nm dual wavelength is also strong on melasma. The doctor selects the device based on your specific melasma pattern (epidermal, dermal, or mixed) — verified with a Wood's lamp examination during the free consultation.
Pico laser vs Q-switched ND:YAG — what is the difference?
Both are non-ablative lasers targeting pigment. The difference is pulse duration: Q-switched delivers pulses in nanoseconds (10⁻⁹ seconds); pico lasers deliver in picoseconds (10⁻¹² seconds) — roughly 1,000× shorter. The shorter pulse fragments pigment via photoacoustic effect instead of heating it, which means less risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in Asian skin. Pico is the modern gold standard; Q-switched is still used in some niche cases.
Is there downtime after pico laser?
No social downtime — patients have mild pink flush for 1-3 hours and can apply makeup the next day. Some patients with darker pigmentation see micro-crusting (tiny dark dots) that flake off naturally in 5-10 days; this is expected and a sign the laser is working. Sun protection (SPF 50+) and gentle skincare are essential during the protocol.
How many pico laser sessions do I need for sun spots and melasma?
Sun spots and freckles typically clear in 2-4 sessions. Melasma is more complex and usually requires 6-10 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart, often combined with prescription tranexamic acid and strict sun protection. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars takes 4-6 sessions on average. The doctor builds a personalised protocol after assessing the skin under Wood's lamp.
Is pico laser cheaper in Bangkok than in Singapore or Korea?
Yes — pico laser in Bangkok costs roughly 40-65% less than the same device session in Singapore (SGD 350-650 ≈ ฿9,000-17,000) or Korea (₩400,000-800,000 ≈ ฿11,000-23,000). VERZO CLINIC at BTS Ekkamai is a 25-minute taxi from BKK; many international patients book a 3-session pico protocol across 2-3 trips to Bangkok over 2 months.
VERZO Consultation Standard
A strong consultation should give you:
- A clear assessment of the concern.
- A realistic plan with alternatives.
- Written aftercare and warning signs.
- A chance to wait if timing or suitability is not right.
Useful next reads: first visit at VERZO CLINIC, aftercare timeline, and contact VERZO near BTS Ekkamai.