By LIV Clinic · Medically reviewed by Dr. Narathai Vichienkalayarut, M.D. · Published September 20, 2026

Picosecond pulses are a thousand times shorter than nanosecond ones — which is why they shatter pigment instead of cooking skin.

Is Pico laser available on Koh Samui? Picosecond (Pico) laser treatments are offered at selected clinics in Thailand, more commonly in larger cities; availability on Koh Samui varies by clinic, so confirm directly — doctor-led clinics such as LIV Clinic can advise which pigmentation treatments suit your skin.

What Pico laser is

Ultra-short pulses

A narrative review explains the picosecond laser emits pulses lasting 300 to 500 picoseconds, producing more significant fragmentation of melanin with minimal risk of scarring and thermal injury to surrounding skin.

Why that matters

Because the energy is delivered so fast, pigment shatters mechanically rather than through prolonged heating — which lowers the risk of heat-related pigment problems.

What it treats

Picosecond lasers are used for:

• Pigmentation and sun spots
• Melasma, usually as a second-line option
• Tattoo removal
• Acne scars and skin texture
• General skin rejuvenation

What the evidence shows

For melasma

A randomised controlled trial compared picosecond Nd:YAG and picosecond alexandrite lasers with topical hydroquinone, noting that topical hydroquinone remains first-line therapy while picosecond lasers are effective and safe options.

For acne scars

Picosecond lasers are also being studied against established options for atrophic acne scars, including in a randomised trial comparing them with fractional CO2 laser.

Pico compared with other options

For melasma specifically, topicals plus strict sun protection remain the foundation.

Important cautions for pigmentation

Over-treating can backfire

Guidance on melasma notes the major complication of treatment is inflammation-associated hyperpigmentation, so all treatments must be weighed against the risk of making pigment worse if too aggressive.

Skin type matters

Settings must be matched to your phototype — particularly relevant for Asian skin, which is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Availability on Koh Samui

Confirm before travelling

Picosecond platforms are more common in city clinics, so check directly whether a Koh Samui clinic has one before planning around it.

Alternatives on the island

LIV Clinic offers laser and radiofrequency treatments and can advise which pigmentation approach suits your skin — see our guide to melasma treatment in Thailand.

What to expect from treatment

A course, not one session

Pigmentation treatments typically need several sessions, with results building gradually and maintenance often required.

Sun protection is essential

Without daily sun protection, pigmentation returns — which makes aftercare as important as the treatment itself in a tropical climate.

How to approach pigmentation treatment

A sensible sequence:

1. Have a consultation so the cause of your pigmentation is identified.
2. Ask which device the clinic has and whether it suits your skin type.
3. Start with topical therapy and sun protection where appropriate.
4. Consider laser as part of a plan, not a standalone fix.
5. Request a patch test for more pigmented skin.
6. Commit to daily sun protection long term.

Pigmentation treatment at LIV Clinic Koh Samui

At LIV Clinic, Dr. Narathai assesses pigmentation before recommending treatment, and will advise honestly which approach suits your skin. Book a consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Safety and consultation

Picosecond laser treatment is a medical procedure and, like any energy-based or resurfacing treatment, carries some risk — common temporary effects can include redness, mild swelling and sensitivity, while less common effects such as pigment changes are minimised by correct settings for your skin type. Results vary from person to person, and no specific outcome can be promised. This article is general information, not medical advice.

At LIV Clinic, every treatment begins with an in-person assessment by Dr. Narathai Vichienkalayarut, M.D., who reviews your skin, medical history and goals before recommending a personalized plan. Book a consultation to find out whether this treatment suits you.