Laser Treatment for Pigmentation: What You Need to Know

Living in Singapore’s year-round tropical heat means your skin is constantly exposed to sunlight, and with that comes an increased risk of pigmentation. Whether it’s freckles that seem to multiply after a day outdoors or uneven patches that darken over time, these changes can be frustrating to manage. The combination of UV rays, humidity, and daily sunlight can also trigger excess melanin production, leading to sunspots and uneven skin tone.

While skincare products can help, deeper pigmentation often requires a more targeted solution. That’s where laser treatment comes in to address pigmentation at its source. In this guide, we’ll look at how pigmentation forms, the laser options available, and what you expect from treatment.

Pigmentation refers to your skin’s natural colour, determined by a pigment called melanin. This pigment is produced by melanocytes, specialised cells that help shield your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

When melanin production becomes uneven or excessive, it leads to hyperpigmentation, where areas of the skin that appear darker than the surrounding tissue. These dark spots can form for various reasons, from frequent sun exposure and hormonal fluctuations to skin injuries or even genetics.

Common pigmentation issues seen in Singapore include:

Often called the “mask of pregnancy,” melasma appears as symmetrical brown or greyish patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or nose. It’s commonly triggered by hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or when using oral contraceptives. Because melasma affects deeper skin layers, it can be particularly challenging to treat.

Sometimes referred to as age spots or solar lentigines, these flat, dark patches are caused by long-term sun exposure. They tend to develop in areas like the face, hands, and shoulders, and are more frequent in adults over 40.

Freckles are small, light brown dots that become more visible after time outdoors. They are more common in those who are fair-skinned and often appear across the nose and cheeks.

PIH develops after inflammation or skin injury, such as acne or eczema, leaving dark marks once the area has healed. It’s especially common among darker skin tones and may fade slowly without treatment.

Laser treatment targets excess melanin beneath the skin’s surface using concentrated beams of light. These light pulses are absorbed by pigmented cells, breaking them down into smaller fragments. Over time, your body naturally clears away these fragments through its lymphatic system, gradually reducing visible pigmentation.

The process also encourages new skin cell regeneration and collagen production, leading to a more even skin tone and smoother texture. While some improvement may be visible after the first session, the skin continues to renew itself in the weeks that follow, revealing clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Different laser technologies are available to treat pigmentation, and the right choice depends on your skin type, pigmentation depth, and specific concerns.

This laser delivers high-energy pulses in rapid bursts measured in nanoseconds. The intense energy helps break down pigment clusters effectively and is suitable for treating sunspots, freckles, brown patches, and even birthmarks. The 1064nm wavelength is also particularly effective for deeper pigment issues.

Pico laser systems work even faster, delivering pulses in trillionths of a second (picoseconds). This ultra-short pulse duration breaks pigment into finer particles with minimal heat, lowering the risk of irritation. It’s useful for addressing melasma, acne scars and stubborn pigmentation, as well as tattoo removal.

Fractional lasers are commonly used for facial rejuvenation, working by creating tiny, precise micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process and encourages collagen production, helping to restore smoother, healthier-looking skin.

They are available in two main types:

Laser treatment offers targeted, non-surgical solutions for pigmentation, with benefits such as:

When performed by an experienced doctor, laser pigmentation treatment is generally safe. Still, as with any procedure, some temporary effects may occur, such as:

Proper post-treatment care helps maintain results and supports healing. Your doctor will advise specific steps, typically including:

Some pigmentation types, like melasma, may require several sessions for visible improvement. Patience and consistent aftercare play a key role in achieving lasting results.

Laser therapy can address most pigmentation issues effectively, but not everyone is an ideal candidate. Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have active skin conditions, or are taking certain medications may need to postpone treatment. A proper consultation allows the doctor to assess your skin type, condition, and goals before recommending a personalised plan.

If you are considering laser treatment for pigmentation, a consultation with Dr Vanessa Phua can help you better understand your options. With training in aesthetic and laser procedures, she provides personalised care to help you achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin. To book an appointment, contact our clinic at 6735 8833.

This depends on the type and severity of pigmentation. Most notice improvement after three to six sessions, spaced about a month apart. Your doctor will assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Yes, advanced laser technologies, including the Pico laser, are designed to be safe and effective for a range of skin types, including darker tones. However, a consultation is necessary to determine the most suitable approach for your skin type.

It’s best to avoid makeup for at least 24–48 hours post-treatment to allow your skin to heal. Once the skin barrier has recovered, makeup can be safely resumed.

Laser treatment can effectively reduce or clear existing pigmentation, but new spots can appear over time due to sun exposure or hormonal changes. Consistent sun protection and a well-maintained skincare routine help prolong the results.