Pigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns in Singapore. Whether it’s caused by sun exposure, acne scars, or hormonal shifts, uneven skin tone often leads people to seek treatment.
Laser therapy is one of the leading options used in clinics, where pigmentation is assessed carefully before recommending treatment. Under the care of medical professionals, such as Dr Justin Boey, laser-based treatments are used to target areas of pigmentation and gradually lighten visible spots.
In this guide, we explain how laser treatments work, which types of pigmentation they may help, and what you need to know to stay safe and set realistic expectations.
Understanding Pigmentation: What Are You Treating?
Pigmentation refers to dark patches on the skin caused by an excess of melanin. This can be caused by factors like hormonal fluctuations, sun exposure, skin injuries, or inherited traits.
Common types of pigmentation include:
- Sunspots (Age Spots) – Flat brown patches from UV exposure
- Freckles – Small, scattered marks that darken with the sun
- Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) – Skin discolouration caused by acne, bites, or irritation
- Melasma – Larger patches triggered by hormones or sun, often complex and reactive
- Hori’s Nevus – Deeper, bluish-brown pigment that appears in some Asian skin types
Each condition has a different cause and depth in the skin. That’s why a proper diagnosis is key before choosing laser treatment or any other approach.
How Laser Helps with Pigmentation
Laser treatments are a popular choice for targeting visible pigmentation. They work by focusing light energy on melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour.
How do Lasers Target Pigment
The laser sends light into the skin, where it’s absorbed by melanin. This energy breaks pigment into tiny particles, which your body then naturally clears away over time.
Think of it as gently breaking up pigment clusters that fade gradually. While this process won’t completely remove all pigment, it can noticeably lighten discolouration and improve skin tone with consistent treatment.
Types of Lasers Commonly Used
Different lasers are used based on the type and depth of pigmentation, as well as your skin tone. Here are the most commonly recommended options:
Q-Switched Nd: YAG Laser (1064 nm)
This laser is often used for deeper pigment issues, especially in medium to darker skin types. Its longer wavelength allows it to reach below the surface safely, making it a popular choice for PIH and Hori’s nevus.
Picosecond Laser
Known for its ultra-short pulses, the picosecond laser breaks pigment into finer particles. It’s effective for stubborn or spot-specific pigmentation and is often used when other treatments haven’t worked. Learn more about the picosecond laser for pigmentation.
Picolaser starts from $150. The final cost depends on the area treated and the individual’s skin condition, as assessed during the consultation.
Fractional Laser
In selected cases, fractional lasers can treat deeper dermal pigment by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This helps stimulate natural repair and turnover, gradually fading deeper pigment.
From $450, Fractional laser options are available; however, pricing may vary based on treatment goals and a clinical evaluation.
Who Is Laser Pigmentation Treatment Suitable For?
Laser treatments can be effective for certain types of pigmentation, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. The best candidates are those with stable pigment conditions and healthy skin.
A laser may be suitable if you have:
- Sunspots or freckles that haven’t responded to topical treatments
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne or skin irritation
- Hori’s nevus or other deeper pigment types, when managed by an experienced doctor
However, a laser treatment is not ideal if you:
- Have unstable melasma or skin recently exposed to strong sunlight
- Are prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) without proper prep
- Haven’t had a proper skin analysis to confirm your pigment type
If you’re unsure about your skin’s condition or whether laser is right for you, always consult a medical provider. A tailored plan will help minimise risks and maximise results.
What Laser Can and Can’t Do for Pigmentation
What Laser May Help Improve
Laser treatments can help lighten certain types of pigmentation by targeting excess melanin. They’re especially useful for:
- Sunspots and age spots
- Freckles and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Hori’s nevus and some deeper pigment conditions
As the pigment gradually breaks down and your skin undergoes natural renewal, you may notice a more even skin tone over time.
What Laser Cannot Do?
While lasers can fade pigment, they don’t guarantee permanent removal. Pigmentation may return due to sun exposure, hormones, or skin irritation.
Lasers also:
- Can’t prevent new pigmentation from forming
- May not fully clear deeper or stubborn pigment types
- Should not be used without a proper diagnosis and treatment plan
To get the best results, laser should be part of a broader strategy that includes sun protection and proper aftercare.
Safety Considerations for Pigmentation Laser Treatment
Laser treatments can be safe and effective when done correctly. However, skin type and pigment depth play a big role in how your skin responds.
Laser Use in Asian Skin Types
Medium to darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick types III to V) are more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following laser treatment. That’s why providers often use gentler settings and safer wavelengths, such as the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, for deeper yet safer penetration.
In some cases, a test spot may be performed first to check your skin’s response before committing to full treatment.
Side Effects and Rare Risks
Most people tolerate lasers well, but some may experience:
- Mild redness or darkening after treatment
- Temporary flaking or dryness in the treated area
- In rare cases, scarring, blistering, or light patches (hypopigmentation) may occur if treatment is too aggressive.
Brief Note on Procedure and Sessions
Laser pigmentation treatments are done in short, in-clinic sessions and typically require more than one visit to see full results.
What to Expect During a Session
Each session usually lasts 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment area. You might feel a light snapping sensation or warmth on the skin, but discomfort is usually minimal. Numbing cream may be applied if needed.
Number of Sessions Needed
The number of treatments depends on:
- The type and depth of pigmentation
- Your skin tone and sensitivity
- The specific laser used
The number of sessions depends on your progress and how your skin responds to treatment. However, many people may require 3 to 6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart to notice gradual changes.
How Laser Differs from Other Pigmentation Treatments
Different pigmentation treatments work in various ways. The following outlines how laser treatment differs from other commonly used options.
Laser vs. Chemical Peels
Laser reaches deeper layers of the skin, making it more suitable for stubborn pigment like Hori’s nevus.
Chemical peels exfoliate the skin’s surface and are great for treating sunspots or mild post-acne marks. Some treatment plans may use both to target pigment at multiple levels.
Laser vs. Topical Treatments
Topical creams or serums are often the first step for treating mild pigmentation. They work slowly and may not reach deeper pigment. Laser is usually chosen when topicals aren’t enough or when faster results are desired.
Laser vs. Oral Supplements
Some supplements support skin health but don’t directly remove pigment. They may be used in conjunction with laser treatments or peels to enhance results or reduce inflammation.
Laser vs. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
IPL helps treat diffuse sun damage and redness, but is less precise than laser treatment. It’s not always suitable for darker skin tones.
Laser, especially with the right settings, offers better control and deeper pigment targeting.
Every method has its strengths. Your provider may combine treatments based on your skin type and the depth of your pigmentation. Learn more about Chemical Peels for Pigmentation.
FAQs
Is laser treatment painful?
Most people describe the sensation as mild, similar to a light rubber band snap. A numbing cream can be applied to make the session more comfortable.
Will the pigmentation come back after laser treatment?
It might. Sun exposure, hormones, or inflammation can trigger pigment to return. That’s why maintenance treatments and daily sun protection are essential.
Can I get a laser treatment if I have darker skin?
Yes, but with extra care. Specific lasers and conservative settings are used to reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Is one laser session enough?
Usually not. Multiple sessions are typically needed to gradually fade pigment and improve skin clarity.
How soon will I see a difference?
You might notice early fading after the first few sessions. Full results usually develop over several weeks as pigment continues to clear.
Conclusion
Laser treatment may help manage certain types of pigmentation when carried out by a qualified medical professional. While it won’t completely erase all pigmentation, it can help lighten visible spots and improve skin tone over time.
Sozo Clinic offers a personalised approach to ensure each treatment is suited to your skin type and pigment concern. A proper assessment, realistic expectations, and a well-rounded plan, including sun protection and skincare, are key to long-term success.
If you’re considering laser treatment for pigmentation, start with a consultation to determine what’s right for your skin.
