A Special Approach to Pigmentation Toning Treatments

1. Focusing on Density During Treatment

At our clinic, we carefully manage the number of daily appointments to ensure

ample treatment time.

We prioritize sufficient focus on each area as needed.

Through one-on-one consultations between the director and the patient, the laser's intensity, number of shots, and mode can be adjusted even during the treatment.

2. 3-Mode Toning System Considering Area-Specific Characteristics

Pigmentation varies across different body areas in terms of cause, skin thickness, and depth of pigment.

Therefore, our clinic applies three distinct toning systems instead of a single mode.

• Dual Toning (RTP)
• This is used for sensitive or thin-skinned areas, focusing on minimizing heat burden.
• Fractional 1064
• Applied to thick, long-standing pigmentation, it can bring about changes deep within the dermal layer of the skin.
• Basic 1064nm Toning
• Used for shallow, widely distributed pigments, it can help to equalize overall skin tone and slow down the recurrence of hyperpigmentation.

Even with the same equipment, applying different treatment combinations tailored to area-specific characteristics can lead to more effective results.

3. Principle of Minimum 1500 Shots Per Area

Considering the minimum threshold at which pigmented lesions begin to respond (typically 1000-1500 shots),

our clinic plans treatments with a minimum of 1500 shots per area.

This is not simply about meeting a quota,

• depth
• density
• response speed
• but rather intentionally accumulating laser shots by comprehensively considering these three factors.

4. Managing Treatment Progress with Data

It is often difficult to accurately determine the depth of pigmentation on body areas with diagnostic equipment.

At our clinic, before-and-after photography is a standard part of the process.

This holds more significance than just comparing before and after.

It is used as an important criterion for determining the intensity, mode, and pattern of subsequent treatments.

Principles of Pigmentation Toning Treatment (Summary)

1) Selective Decomposition of Melanin Pigment

By repeatedly irradiating low-power laser with a 1064nm wavelength multiple times,

the goal is to reduce damage to surrounding tissues and gradually break down only the pigment particles.

2) Reducing Stimulation to Melanin-Producing Cells

By delivering short bursts of energy in nanoseconds,

without excessively stimulating the activity of melanin-producing cells (melanocytes),

it can selectively reduce only the melanin pigment within the cells.

3) Partial Inhibition of Pigment Migration Pathways

By partially reducing the activity of the pathways (dendrites) through which melanin pigment rises to the epidermis,

it can help slow down the rate at which new hyperpigmentation recurs.

Guide to Special Treatment Modes for Body Toning Programs

RTP Dual Toning Method

• Laser energy is delivered by dividing it into two pulses.
• It may be suitable for areas with thin or sensitive skin.
• It can help reduce the possibility of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) after treatment.

Fractional Toning Technique

• This method delivers laser energy deep into the dermis.
• You can expect an improvement in skin texture along with old pigmentation.

Recommended Treatment Cycle

• Generally, it is recommended to receive treatments consistently at 1-2 week intervals, for a minimum of 10 sessions.
• For low-output toning, it is important that the effects accumulate through repeated treatments.
• Melanin pigment removal, debris processing by macrophages, and skin regeneration processes occur simultaneously.
• This is because these three processes occur in approximately 7-14 day cycles.
• Treatments for maintenance can be considered at 3-6 week intervals.

Treatment Procedure (Update)

1. You may choose ointment anesthesia if necessary.
2. We carefully analyze the skin thickness, pigment depth, and sensitivity of each treatment area.
3. Based on the analysis results, we determine the appropriate toning mode among general, RTP, and fractional options.
4. We check and set the areas for improvement with the patient while looking in a mirror.
5. More than 1500 shots of laser will be applied to the designated areas.
6. We will explain in detail the mode, intensity, and total number of shots used during the treatment.
7. With the patient's consent, photos may be taken for before-and-after comparison of the treatment progress.

Situations where toning is recommended for improving body pigmentation

• Pigmentation in the underarm and bikini line areas that occurred after hair removal or waxing.
• Pigmentation on the inner thighs and buttocks due to frequent pressure or friction from clothing or daily habits.
• Pigmentation in specific areas caused by friction from bra straps or athletic wear.
• Pigmentation that has been present for a long time in thick-skinned areas like the knees or elbows.
• Red or brown marks caused by acne on the back or buttocks.
• Body pigmentation that is difficult to improve with at-home care alone.
• Treatment can also be considered when pigmentation in a specific area remains particularly dark and is a concern.

Post-Treatment Care Instructions (Summary)

• Facial cleansing and makeup are possible on the day of treatment.
• Temporary redness or a warm sensation after treatment is a normal reaction.
• It is recommended to apply sunscreen diligently and focus on moisturizing care.
• If discomfort persists longer than expected or symptoms worsen, please visit the clinic for a consultation.