Pico toning pain: is it mild enough to get without anesthesia?

Pico toning pain is about a light stinging, like a rubber band snapping gently, and a warm sensation, and it is often done without numbing cream. However, in areas with dark pigment, or areas where bone is close and skin is thin, such as around the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose, the stinging may feel a little stronger.

Why does pico toning sting?

Pico toning fires the laser for an extremely short time called a picosecond to break melanin pigment into fine particles. The moment the light is absorbed by pigment, a small shock and heat are generated, which is felt on the skin as a popping sting.

Toning sends low energy evenly across the whole face, so it stings less than the strong settings used for mole removal or tattoo removal. The treatment time is short, so the stinging doesn't last long either.

When pico toning pain feels stronger

• Areas with dark pigment, such as melasma or blemishes, absorb more light and sting more.
• Areas where bone is close and skin is thin, such as the cheekbones, forehead, and bridge of the nose, produce a resonating sensation.
• If your skin is tanned or your skin barrier is weakened, the burning sensation increases even at the same settings.
• Skin that has been using retinol or exfoliating products is sensitized and may feel more stinging.

If you are sensitive to pain, we may add cooling during treatment or adjust energy and speed, and if needed, using numbing cream is decided during consultation.

Care after pico toning pain

At our Suwon clinic, after consultation you wash your face yourself and then PicoSure toning is performed; the treatment takes about 10 minutes or less.

Slight redness and a burning sensation after treatment soon subside. You can wash your face and wear makeup on the same day, but avoid scrubs and peels for about a week, and apply moisturizer and sunscreen thoroughly. If the burning sensation lasts more than a day or blisters and scabs form over a wide area, please contact the clinic.

Laser toning in Suwon: how do pico toning and Genesis toning differ?

See PicoSure toning treatment details

FAQ

Q. Is pico toning pain the same every session?

A. As pigment fades, less light is absorbed, so some people feel the stinging gradually lessens. Conversely, on days when your skin is tanned or sensitive, it may sting more even at the same settings, so we adjust based on your skin condition that day.

Q. Is pico toning pain similar to laser mole removal?

A. Mole removal uses strong settings that shave or burn the lesion, so numbing cream is commonly used. Pico toning sends low energy evenly, so the stinging is spread out over a wide area, and it is usually done without anesthesia.

Q. What should I do if my face feels hot right after pico toning?

A. A burning sensation and slight redness right after treatment are common reactions and usually subside soon. Cool your face gently with a cold damp towel and apply moisturizer, and if it gets worse after a day or blisters form, please contact the clinic.