At Sozo Clinic, Pico Laser is known for treating a wide range of skin concerns — from pigmentation and acne scars to enlarged pores and even tattoo removal. But as with any treatment, results depend on your skin type, the concern being treated, and how well your skin responds over time.
This guide highlights real-world case types that reflect the range of results you might expect. Whether you’re hoping for a brighter complexion, smoother texture, or fading an old tattoo, these examples will help you understand:
- What outcomes are typical
- How long results take
- Where limitations exist
Let’s explore how Pico Laser performs across different skin goals — and what really makes a difference in your journey.
What Factors Affect Your Results
Your experience with Pico Laser is shaped by several key variables. Understanding these helps set realistic expectations — and can also guide better treatment planning.
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) may require gentler laser settings to reduce risk of PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). |
| Treated Concern | Superficial pigment (like sunspots) typically responds faster than deeper issues like acne scars. |
| Number of Sessions | Results are cumulative — it often takes multiple treatments to see full effects. |
| Aftercare | Consistent sun protection and doctor-approved skincare can significantly enhance outcomes and prevent recurrence. |
These factors work together — a mild concern in lighter skin may show faster improvement than a deeper issue in melanin-rich skin, which may need more cautious pacing.
Real Case Highlights by Treatment Goal
To help you visualise how Pico Laser performs in real-world scenarios, here are examples based on common treatment goals. Each case reflects the diversity of skin concerns — and how different factors influence outcomes.
Pigment Correction – Sunspots, Freckles & Melasma
Case 1: Sunspots (2 sessions)
- Before: Brown spots on cheeks, uneven tone from sun exposure
- After: Spots darkened, then flaked off over a few days; tone visibly brighter with minimal downtime
Case 2: Melasma (4 sessions + skincare)
- Before: Persistent symmetrical pigment on forehead and cheeks
- After: Significant fading and a more balanced tone; some pigment remained, requiring long-term maintenance
Takeaway: Superficial pigment like sunspots tends to respond quickly. Melasma requires more cautious, sustained care due to higher recurrence risk.
Texture & Pore Refinement – Acne Scars & Enlarged Pores
Case 3: Acne Scars (5 sessions)
- Before: Depressed rolling scars and residual redness from past breakouts
- After: Scars appeared shallower and skin smoother after five sessions — consistent with studies showing that picosecond lasers stimulate collagen and improve acne scars (Journal of the Korean Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery).
Case 4: Enlarged Pores (3 sessions)
- Before: Large pores across the T-zone, oily skin, and dull appearance
- After: Pores looked more refined, oil production better managed, complexion noticeably more radiant
Takeaway: Texture and enlarged pore improvements rely on gradual collagen stimulation. Results typically emerge after several sessions and tend to be subtle but meaningful.
Tattoo Removal
Case 5: Black Ink Tattoo (6 sessions)
- Before: Medium-sized black tattoo on the forearm, over 5 years old
- After: Approximately 90% clearance achieved; faint outline remained under direct light, with no visible scarring
Case 6: Multicolour Tattoo (8 sessions)
- Before: Red, blue, and green ink tattoo on the wrist; prior unsuccessful removal attempt
- After: Blue and green faded significantly, red moderately reduced; yellow ink persisted; mild ghosting remained
Takeaway: Black ink responds best to Pico Laser. Coloured tattoos — especially those with yellow or metallic pigments — tend to require more sessions and may not fully clear.
Skin Rejuvenation – Glow, Fine Lines & Tone
Case 7: Early Ageing Signs (3 sessions)
- Before: Dull complexion, fine lines around the eyes and mouth, and mild uneven tone
- After: Brighter, more even skin tone; improved firmness; fine lines appeared softened, especially around delicate areas
Takeaway: Skin rejuvenation with Pico Laser offers a subtle but noticeable glow-up. It’s ideal for early signs of ageing, with cumulative improvement over a few sessions and minimal recovery time.
Limitations & Realistic Expectations
While Pico Laser delivers measurable results, it’s important to understand its boundaries — and what influences outcomes over time.
When Results Are Subtle
Not every case will show dramatic change, especially when dealing with:
- Deep acne scars that may require adjunctive treatments like subcision or TCA CROSS
- Stubborn pigment conditions like melasma, which can recur despite improvement
- Individual variation in skin biology, healing speed, and response to laser stimulation
What Maximises Results
Pico Laser works best when combined with:
- Proper aftercare, including daily SPF and gentle skincare
- Additional treatments, like topical agents for pigment, or collagen-stimulating procedures for scars
- Consistency, with scheduled sessions and follow-ups based on your provider’s advice
Final Thoughts – What These Cases Can Tell You
Real before-and-after results from Pico Laser show that the treatment can visibly improve a range of skin concerns — from pigmentation and acne scars to pore size, early ageing, and tattoos. But the most important takeaway is this:
Results vary. Personalisation matters. Consistency pays off.
Photos and case summaries capture progress, but they don’t show the full picture — like how your skin responds session by session, how you care for it in between, or how it fits into your overall skincare journey.
If you’re considering Pico Laser, a consultation with Dr. Justin Boey is the best next step. They can assess your goals, skin type, and history to create a realistic and effective plan tailored just for you.