Do you know that laser treatment is now an option for treating skin pigmentation?
This can prove a boon for many people in Singapore with cosmetic concerns. Unwanted skin pigmentation is becoming more common, often due to excessive sun exposure – although other causes are also possible!
With certain laser treatments, however, some skin pigmentation concerns can be addressed, helping to bring back people’s confidence.
What is skin pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation happens when melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, accumulates unevenly in the skin. This can produce many types of skin pigmentation. While most are benign, some are still considered cosmetically undesirable:
- Melasma
- Freckles
- Sunspots or solar lentigines
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
In tropical climates like Singapore’s, high UV exposure can accelerate pigmentation issues. Meanwhile, factors like pregnancy can contribute to this through hormonal fluctuations. Even acne scarring can add to unwanted pigmentation buildup!
How do laser treatments work for skin pigmentation?
Laser pigmentation treatments use targeted light energy to break down melanin.
The laser is typically focused on the pigmented area, like a freckle. The energy heats up the melanin until it breaks down. The body then naturally clears it from the area over time, resulting in the freckle either becoming lighter or vanishing completely.
Note that different laser types target different pigment depths and conditions. This is why people considering a laser treatment for skin concerns should always undergo an assessment first.
Top laser options in Singapore
Several lasers are offered at reputable aesthetic clinics in Singapore. Here are the ones most commonly used when it comes to laser treatment for skin pigmentation:
1. Pico laser
Probably one of the most recognisable lasers for the general public, because it’s used so often. It uses extremely short pulses of energy to treat pigmentation while minimising collateral damage.
The short length of its pulses controls the amount of heat delivered to the area. It’s often used for freckles, melasma, and sunspots.
2. Q-Switched Nd: YAG laser
This laser technology has been in use for some time. It uses high-intensity pulses that are meant to target deeper pigments.
As such, it’s most often used for dermal pigmentation or tattoo removal.
3. Fractional laser
Fractional lasers are among the more aggressive laser types here. However, it has the benefit of being able to treat pigmentation while also trying to improve skin texture.
This is why it is most often recommended in cases where the pigmentation is not just severe but may even involve scarring.
How long does treatment or recovery last?
Pigmentation treatments with laser usually require several sessions spaced 3 to 6 weeks apart. Even the number of sessions can vary across patients, but usually ranges from 3 to 8. Needing more sessions typically means the pigmentation being treated is more severe.
As for recovery, most patients experience mild redness or swelling. In some cases, the pigmentation may also darken before it flakes or scabs off.
Is laser treatment suitable for you?
Laser treatment for pigmentation is generally safe for most people when performed by licensed practitioners and with the right equipment. It is advised to find an experienced practitioner for both the assessment and the procedure.
An experienced professional will not only know which laser best suits your needs but can also patch-test first to assess skin response before a full session. This can minimise the risk of burns or unwanted side effects.
