GLASS LAB · Medical Aesthetics Evidence Index 303 cells · 19,226 papers · 5,969 top-tier evidence

Pigment · PIH

Laser toning qswitched or picosecond evidence for PIH

A 66.4 / 100 Supported 60 RCT/meta · 35 clinical/observational · 51 case · 198 total
Strong evidence · positive conclusion

This procedure group has the highest level of PubMed evidence for this indication, and the papers broadly support its effectiveness.

Grade combines the quantity and quality of the research, while direction is a separate signal showing how the papers assess effectiveness.

Includes meta-analysis/SR Median year 2018 Last 5 years 30% Positive results 62% Negative results 11 Korea/Asia 53

Known in Korea as

토닝밀크토닝수소토닝스펙트라레이저 토닝바디착색토닝레블라이트 SI셀룰라이트 토닝지우개 멀티토닝헬리오스 785

Procedure and brand names vary, but the evidence above applies to the same procedure mechanism.

Key papers

tier1 Investigating the efficacy and safety of the 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser in treating nevus of Ota: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine · 2026 · PMID 41731817

Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: The nevus of Ota is an uncommon pigmentary skin condition that causes bluish-gray pigmentation and is traditionally treated with a Q-switched laser. Emerging evidence suggests that the 755-nanometer picosecond alexandrite laser is a safe and effective therapeutic option. We sought to determine the overall effectiveness and safety profile of the 755-nanometer (nm) picosecond alexandrite laser for managing...

Journal Article, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

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tier1 Lasers and Energy-Based Devices for Treatment of Pigmented Lesions With Histologic and Ultrastructural Imaging Correlation: A Systematic Review. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] · 2025 · PMID 40767860

Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Understanding histologic and ultrastructural changes in pigmented lesions after laser/energy-based device (EBD) treatment is essential for elucidating treatment mechanisms, optimizing outcomes, and preventing complications. OBJECTIVE: To summarize histologic and imaging findings after laser/EBD for pigmented lesions. METHODS: A systematic review using PubMed identified 39 studies examining laser/EBD...

Systematic Review, Journal Article, Review

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tier1 The Efficacy of Laser Therapy in Melasma Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of cosmetic dermatology · 2025 · PMID 41378674

Abstract summary (English) INTRODUCTION: Laser treatment is one of the most common methods currently used to treat melasma. Here in, we reviewed RCTs with at least one laser therapy arm used in net form for treatment, so as to assess the use of laser therapy for melasma treatment with a degree of certainty. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed on the effectiveness of laser therapy for melasma treatment in the period from 2010...

Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review

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tier1 A pilot randomized split-face trial comparing fractional Q-Switched ruby laser and 1064-nm Q-Switched nd: YAG laser in Chinese women with melasma running titile: fQSRL vs. QSNY in melasma. Lasers in medical science · 2025 · PMID 41044286

Abstract summary (English) Laser therapy plays an essential role in the management of melasma. However, direct comparisons between the fractional Q-switched ruby laser (fQSRL) and the Q-switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser (QSNY) are limited, particularly in Asian populations. Therefore, we conducted this study to compare the clinical efficacy, safety, and patient-reported outcomes of fQSRL versus QSNY in the treatment of melasma.

Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study

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tier1 Axillary Hyperpigmentation Treatment: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of cosmetic dermatology · 2025 · PMID 40843925

Abstract summary (English) INTRODUCTION: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a common dermatologic complaint that affects different parts of the body. Axillary hyperpigmentation (AH) is a common dermatologic complaint, with no standard treatment. We aim to address the efficacy and safety of the studied treatment modalities for AH.

Systematic Review, Journal Article

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tier1 Multimodality Management of Skin Hyperpigmentation. Aesthetic plastic surgery · 2025 · PMID 40301200

Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Skin hyperpigmentation, caused by excessive melanin production, presents both aesthetic and psychological concerns. The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is a key treatment modality, with effectiveness influenced by factors such as skin type, laser fluence, and treatment frequency. A multimodal approach combining laser therapy and medical treatment may enhance outcomes.

Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial

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tier1 Treatment of Solar Lentigines: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Journal of cosmetic dermatology · 2025 · PMID 40145274

Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Solar lentigines, resulting from chronic UV exposure, are early signs of photoaging and can significantly affect individuals. AIMS: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of treatments for solar lentigines in light of a lack of conclusive evidence regarding optimal therapy options. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and...

Systematic Review, Journal Article

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tier1 Comparative efficacy and safety of the novel Picosecond Alexandrite Laser and the traditional combined Q-switched and long-pulse Nd: YAG lasers in melasma treatment: a randomized evaluator-blinded trial. Lasers in medical science · 2025 · PMID 39843829

Abstract summary (English) Melasma significantly impacts life quality, and while various laser therapies show promise, rigorous comparative studies, especially between the novel Picosecond Alexandrite Laser (PSAL) and the traditional combined modality of Q-switched and Long-pulse Nd: YAG Lasers (QLNYL), are notably lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the efficacy and safety of these modalities, providing insights into...

Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study

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tier1 Postoperative risk assessment of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and the efficacy of delayed prevention following 532 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment of solar lentigines: a randomized controlled study. The Journal of dermatological treatment · 2024 · PMID 39265567

Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Although post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a common adverse event following laser procedures, studies evaluating its risk remain limited. OBJECTIVE: To analyze PIH risk after 532 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (QSNYL) treatment for solar lentigines and examine the efficacy of triple combination cream (TCC) for its prevention. METHODS: In this single center, investigator-blinded, randomized...

Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial

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tier1 Novel 532-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser for the treatment of melasma and rejuvenation: a prospective, randomized controlled comparison with 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser. International journal of dermatology · 2024 · PMID 38411341

Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common pigmentary and photoaging disorder. Although various treatments, including 1,064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS-Nd: YAG) laser toning, are available for melasma, results are often unsatisfactory. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser (shortwave toning) in patients with melasma and facial rejuvenation.

Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study

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Suggested interpretation

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