Treatment guide · Laser Treatments

Discovery Pico in Seoul

A high-power picosecond laser often chosen for tattoo removal and stubborn pigment.

Ask the clinic for: 디스커버리 피코

Discovery Pico explained

Discovery Pico is a picosecond laser made by Quanta System in Italy. It is known for high peak power, which is useful for tattoo removal. It is also used for pigmentation and pico toning.

How Discovery Pico works

The laser fires picosecond and nanosecond pulses at 1064 nm and 532 nm, with a 694 nm option on some models. The short, high-power pulses break ink and pigment mainly by a pressure effect. Immune cells then remove the fragments over the following weeks.

Who Discovery Pico is for

• Black and dark tattoo removal
• Some coloured tattoos, depending on wavelength
• Freckles, sun spots and age spots
• Pico toning for uneven tone
• Stubborn pigment that did not respond to other lasers

Who should avoid Discovery Pico

• Pregnant women (most clinics delay non-essential laser)
• Recent tan or sunburn
• Active infection or open wounds in the area
• Recent isotretinoin use (discuss timing with the doctor)
• Those with a history of keloids in the tattoo area

What happens at the appointment

1. Consultation and test of the area
2. Cleansing and numbing cream for tattoos or spots
3. Eye protection and laser treatment
4. Cooling and an ointment or dressing if needed
5. Aftercare instructions and session plan

Aftercare and flying home

• Keep treated tattoos clean and covered as advised
• Do not pick crusts or blisters
• Use SPF 50 sunscreen and cover the area outdoors
• Avoid swimming, saunas and hot baths for a few days after tattoo treatment
• Use gentle skincare after facial toning

Side effects and risks

• Redness and swelling after treatment
• Whitening, blistering or crusting after tattoo removal
• Small crusts for 5–7 days after spot treatment
• Rare: lasting light or dark patches, texture change or scarring

How much does Discovery Pico cost in Seoul?

₩100,000–₩300,000 per session (about US$75–220 per session) — Price depends on whether it is toning, spot removal or tattoo removal, and tattoos are priced by size and colour. Fewer Seoul clinics have this device than Korean pico lasers. Prices are estimates and change with promotions.

Why get Discovery Pico in Korea?

Seoul clinics offer many pico laser options, so visitors can compare brands and prices easily. Tattoo removal needs many sessions, so it suits expats more than short-stay tourists.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Discovery Pico cost in Seoul?

Discovery Pico toning usually costs about ₩100,000–₩300,000 per session in Seoul. Tattoo removal is priced by size and is often higher.

Does Discovery Pico hurt?

Toning feels like light snapping. Tattoo removal feels like a rubber band snap and is usually done with numbing cream.

How many Discovery Pico sessions do I need for a tattoo?

Many tattoos need about 5–10 or more sessions, spaced 6–8 weeks apart. Ink colour, depth and age all matter.

Can I fly after Discovery Pico tattoo removal?

You can usually fly the next day. Keep the area clean and covered, and do not pop blisters.

Is Discovery Pico safe?

It is generally safe with correct settings. Risks include blisters, temporary colour changes and, rarely, scarring.

Is Discovery Pico better for tattoos than other pico lasers?

Its high power can help with dark ink, but no laser clears every tattoo. The doctor's experience and the ink matter more than the brand.

Where to get it in Seoul

Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.