The same laser London clinics use.
Sun spots, melasma, freckles, and age spots treated with SmartPICO — a dual-wavelength picosecond laser platform used in leading aesthetic clinics.
Around 40% less to book it.
Why pay London prices?
The same picosecond technology. A different postcode. A noticeably different price.
Comparison based on typical published per-session pricing at central London aesthetic clinics offering picosecond laser pigmentation treatment. Exact pricing depends on treatment area, pigment depth, and number of sessions required. Individual assessment required.
What makes a picosecond laser different?
SmartPICO delivers laser energy in picosecond pulses — roughly a thousand times shorter than older nanosecond lasers — breaking pigment into finer particles with less surrounding heat.
Picosecond Technology
Shorter pulses break pigment into finer particles using less heat than traditional lasers, allowing the body to clear pigment naturally over time.
Dual Wavelength
Two wavelengths target pigment at different depths in the skin, allowing treatment to be adjusted according to the type and depth of pigmentation.
Multiple Pulse Modes
Settings are adjusted according to pigment type, skin response, and treatment goals — personalised rather than one-size-fits-all.
Lower heat, gentler recovery
Because SmartPICO delivers energy in ultra-short picosecond pulses, less heat is transferred to the surrounding tissue. This lower-heat approach can reduce the risk of post-treatment darkening compared with older, heat-based laser systems.
The gentler energy delivery also makes picosecond lasers a considered option for a range of skin tones, with individual assessment and careful aftercare guidance provided as standard.
Individual results vary. A thorough consultation and patch test are required before treatment.
What can SmartPICO treat?
A range of pigmentation concerns can be assessed for treatment with the SmartPICO platform.
Sun spots & age spots
Flat brown marks associated with cumulative sun exposure over time.
Freckles & lentigines
Concentrated pigment spots that can darken with continued sun exposure.
Melasma
Patchy pigmentation often associated with hormonal changes or sun exposure, treated cautiously and individually.
Café-au-lait marks
Flat, evenly pigmented birthmarks where response to laser can vary from person to person.
Post-inflammatory pigmentation
Dark marks left after acne, injury, or previous cosmetic treatments.
General skin tone unevenness
Photorejuvenation sessions aimed at overall tone and texture rather than one individual mark.
Important: Every case is assessed individually before treatment. Not every mark is suitable for laser, and some concerns may benefit from a different approach. A consultation is required to determine suitability.
From consultation to your treatment plan
Book a consultation
Pigmentation is examined and discussed to determine whether SmartPICO is the appropriate approach for your specific concern.
Patch test & plan
A small test area is used to assess how your skin responds before agreeing the full treatment plan and schedule.
Treatment sessions
Sessions are typically spaced weeks apart to allow the skin to clear pigment naturally between visits.
Aftercare & review
Comprehensive sun protection guidance and follow-up appointments to monitor how the skin responds over time.
A diagnostics clinic, not a beauty bar.
At Drskin Central Diagnostics, pigmentation is assessed properly before any treatment is recommended. Clinical judgement is applied across every service we offer — because understanding the cause of a skin concern is as important as treating it.
You will receive an honest assessment of whether SmartPICO is suitable for your specific pigmentation, along with clear guidance on expected outcomes, aftercare, and any alternative approaches that may be more appropriate.
Same laser platform. No reason to pay a London premium.
SmartPICO is the underlying technology. It is not exclusive to a particular postcode.
- Central London clinic overheads
- Same SmartPICO technology
- Higher per-session pricing
- Longer travel for Suffolk & Essex patients
- SmartPICO technology — identical platform
- Ipswich clinic setting
- Around 40% below typical London per-session pricing
- Direct train from London in just over an hour
Pricing comparison is based on typical published per-session rates at central London clinics. Individual clinics may vary. Exact pricing confirmed after consultation.
Consultation first. Exact price second.
Pigmentation varies significantly in size, depth, and treatment area. The exact session or package price is confirmed only after a thorough in-person assessment.
Multiple areas or a full course of sessions? Ask about package pricing at your consultation.
Based in Ipswich. Worth the trip from London.
Patients travel from across Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk — and directly from London — for assessment and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is this really the same treatment as London clinics offer?
Yes. SmartPICO is a specific picosecond laser platform. The technology is the same whether it is operated in central London or in Ipswich. The difference is clinic overheads and location — not the laser itself.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on the type, depth, and size of pigmentation, as well as how your skin responds. Some concerns may show visible improvement in fewer sessions; others require a longer course. This will be discussed honestly during your consultation and refined after your patch test.
Is it suitable for darker skin tones?
Picosecond lasers are a considered option for a range of skin tones because the shorter pulse duration delivers less heat to surrounding tissue. However, every case is assessed individually. Your skin type, pigmentation type, and medical history will be reviewed during consultation to determine suitability and minimise risk.
Does treatment hurt, and is there downtime?
Most patients describe the sensation as a series of quick snaps against the skin. A topical anaesthetic can be applied beforehand if appropriate. Downtime is typically minimal compared with older laser types, though some redness, mild swelling, or temporary darkening of the treated area can occur. Full aftercare instructions are provided, and individual experiences vary.
Can melasma be treated with this laser?
Melasma can be treated with picosecond lasers, but it requires a particularly cautious approach because melasma is often triggered or worsened by heat and inflammation. Your pigmentation will be assessed individually during your consultation, where the most appropriate treatment approach — laser or otherwise — can be discussed openly.
Book your pigmentation consultation.
Find out what's treatable, how many sessions you'd realistically need, and your exact price — around 40% below typical London rates for the same laser platform.
Book Your Consultation