What is body pico toning?
A picosecond (pico) laser fires pulses lasting trillionths of a second. At low, toning-level energy, those pulses shatter pigment granules into very small particles that the body clears over the following weeks. Because the pulse is so short, less heat spreads into surrounding skin, which matters on body areas that are prone to darkening after irritation.
On the face, the same technology is used for PicoSure toning. On the body, the areas are larger and the skin is often thicker and exposed to friction, so plans are longer and settings are adjusted for each zone.
Body pico toning is commonly requested for:
- Darker elbows and knees
- Underarm darkening from shaving, waxing or deodorant irritation
- Darker inner thighs and bikini line from friction
- Areola lightening
- Uneven tone or post-acne marks on the back and shoulders
Some darkening has a medical cause — for example, velvety thickened skin can be linked to insulin resistance, and rough bumpy arms are often keratosis pilaris. That is why the doctor looks first; for bumps on the upper arms, see our chicken skin arms page.
The aim is a more even tone that blends with the surrounding skin, not bleaching an area lighter than the rest of your body. The doctor sets realistic expectations at the first visit, because how far an area lightens depends on the cause, your natural skin tone and how well friction is controlled.
Areas, sessions and prices
Pricing depends on the size of the area and whether you choose a single session or a course:
| Area | Option | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 area (elbows, underarms, knees or areola) | 1 session | ₩180,000 |
| 1 area (elbows, underarms, knees or areola) | 5 sessions | ₩600,000 |
| Upper or lower body | 1 session | ₩600,000 |
| Full body | 1 session | ₩1,000,000 |
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. See the body pico toning price page.
Getting the most from a course
- Reduce friction: tight clothing, rough scrubs and repeated shaving can re-darken the area. Many people switch to laser hair removal for the underarms to stop shaving irritation.
- Protect from sun: exposed areas like the back of the arms need sunscreen between sessions.
- Be patient: body skin renews more slowly than the face, so change is gradual.
What changes over a body pico course
Most people see gradual lightening after 3–5 sessions, with a clearer difference by the end of a 5–10 session course. Results last longer when friction and irritation are reduced. For facial pigment and spots, see our sun spot treatment page.
How a body pico toning visit works
- Doctor consultation We look at the area, ask about shaving, friction and medication, and rule out causes that need other care.
- Preparation The area is cleansed (and shaved if needed) and you wear eye protection.
- Laser toning 10–20 minutes for a small area, longer for large zones; you feel light snapping.
- Soothing Calming gel and aftercare advice; you can dress and leave straight away.
Visitors in Seoul for a short stay can start with one or two sessions, but because body pigment fades slowly, a course is usually needed for a clear change. We can advise on home care to protect the result between visits.
Downtime, side effects and aftercare
Pico toning is gentle, but body skin can react differently from facial skin:
- Common: redness, warmth and slight swelling for a few hours; mild itching.
- Less common: tiny pinpoint scabs or temporary darkening for a week or two, especially in friction areas.
- Rare: blistering, lighter patches (hypopigmentation) or prolonged darkening, more likely on tanned or darker skin.
Tell the doctor before treatment if you
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding (areola treatment is usually postponed)
- Have a recent tan, sunburn or active rash in the area
- Use isotretinoin or photosensitising medication
- Have diabetes or a hormonal condition that may cause skin darkening
Aftercare
Avoid shaving, waxing, tight clothes, scrubs and hot baths on the area for 2–3 days. Moisturise well and use SPF on exposed skin. Message us on WhatsApp if anything looks unusual.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every body pico toning plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Body pico toning FAQ
How much does body pico toning cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, one small area such as elbows or underarms is ₩180,000 per session or ₩600,000 for 5 sessions, VAT excluded. Upper or lower body is ₩600,000 and full body ₩1,000,000 per session. See the body pico toning price list.
How many sessions does body pico toning take?
Most people need 5–10 sessions about 2–4 weeks apart. Friction areas such as underarms and inner thighs often need more than elbows.
Does pico toning on the body hurt?
It usually feels like light snapping or warm pricking. Numbing is rarely needed for toning settings.
Can pico toning lighten underarms permanently?
It can lighten them noticeably, but darkening can return if shaving irritation, friction or tight clothing continue. Maintenance sessions are common.
Is body pico toning safe for darker skin?
It can be used with conservative settings, but darker skin carries a higher risk of temporary pigment changes. The doctor will adjust the plan and may test a small area first.
