Skin pigmentation concerns can develop gradually, often returning despite repeated skincare. Because different forms of pigmentation behave differently beneath the skin, we take a diagnosis-led approach at JY Medical Aesthetics Clinic. Our specialists in Singapore will conduct a no-obligation skin assessment before recommending a suitable pigmentation treatment.
What Causes Skin Pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation is mainly influenced by disruptions to production and distribution of melanin, the natural pigment responsible for the colour of skin, hair, and eyes. Overproduction leads to hyperpigmentation, while underproduction or destruction results in hypopigmentation. Various causes can tip this balance in either direction, some of which are easier to treat than others.
Types of Skin Pigmentation
Different forms of skin pigmentation can develop for different reasons, such as:
Melasma
Melasma, also known as chloasma, presents itself as patchy brown or grey-brown discolouration, commonly affecting the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose bridge, and chin. The patches caused by this common pigmentation condition may also appear on other areas of your body that are exposed to a lot of sunlight like your forearms, neck, and shoulders.
Melasma is often associated with hormonal changes such as pregnancy or birth control use, making women particularly susceptible. Those with light brown to darker skin tones are also affected, especially in regions exposed to more sun.
Age Spots
Also referred to as lentigo, sun spots, and solar lentigines, age spots are usually flat spots that are tan, brown, or black. Age spots look like freckles and are darker than the surrounding skin. Although also known as liver spots, it has no connection to the liver. Due to prolonged UV exposure, these spots develop on skin exposed to the sun, commonly appearing on the face, hands, arms, and legs of older individuals or those who are exposed to the sun for an extended amount of time.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation presents itself as dark spots, patches of darkened skin, or flat areas of discolouration. These can appear after healing from skin inflammation or injury like acne, cuts, burns, eczema, or lupus. They form due to an inflammatory response that triggers additional melanin production during the skin’s healing process. Sun exposure can also make these spots more distinct.
Post-Inflammatory Hypopigmentation
Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation refers to lighter patches that can appear after skin trauma or inflammation — the same triggers as its hyperpigmentation counterpart, but resulting in a loss of melanin rather than an excess. It may also occur as a side effect of certain laser treatments or topical therapies if the skin’s pigment-producing cells are disrupted.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition in which the immune system attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. This causes smooth, well-defined patches of depigmented skin. It can affect any area of the body and may gradually expand over time.
Laser Treatment for Pigmentation Removal in Singapore
Although some skin pigmentation can improve naturally over time, certain types are more stubborn. Fortunately, there are aesthetic treatments for pigmentation in Singapore that help to reduce the appearance of unyielding dark spots or patches.
Pico Hybrid Laser
This laser treatment for pigmentation uses picosecond laser technology to deliver ultra-short pulses of energy to the skin which effectively breaks down pigmentation into smaller particles, enabling the body to eliminate them naturally. This approach offers great precision and causes minimal heat damage to surrounding tissue, making the treatment effective for lightening dark pigmentation and improving uneven skin tone.
This non-invasive hyperpigmentation laser treatment is also less abrasive than traditional lasers, resulting in a shorter recovery time. The combination of picosecond and nanosecond pulse durations also helps to address skin concerns more precisely and efficiently. The shorter pulse lengths allow for shorter treatment times, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes depending on each individual’s condition and treatment area.
Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling
This procedure may also be incorporated into a broader skin pigmentation treatment plan. Combining microneedling with radiofrequency (RF), this treatment delivers RF energy through fine needles into the skin, targeting dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by melanin deposits.
The RF energy generates heat that progressively breaks down melanin deposits, leading to brightening the affected areas over time. RF Microneedling stimulates the skin’s natural healing process, encourages the generation of new skin cells with balanced melanin levels, and promotes a more even skin tone.
What to Expect During Laser Treatment For Pigmentation
Pigmentation Removal Price in Singapore
The cost of a pigmentation treatment in Singapore, be it a laser or microneedling procedure, varies depending on the following:
- Type of pigmentation being treated
- The laser or device used
- Size of the treatment area
- Number of sessions required
- Whether combination treatments are needed
Some forms of pigmentation may respond after a few sessions, while others may require a longer treatment course or combination-based care.
At JY Medical Aesthetics Clinic, we provide treatment recommendations once we fully access the type and depth of pigmentation involved. This helps us determine which technologies and treatment intervals may be more appropriate for your skin.
Our team will provide the final price after your pigmentation removal consultation.
Why Choose JY Medical Aesthetics Clinic for Skin Pigmentation Treatment
Treating Skin Pigmentation in Singapore
If you want to manage your skin pigmentation concerns, visit our medical aesthetics clinic today to discover how our treatments can benefit you.
Book a Professional Skin Assessment
FAQs on Pigmentation Removal Treatment
Pigmentation removal is not always permanent, as some forms of pigmentation can recur over time. As sun exposure is the most common cause of pigmentation, you are advised to maintain consistent sun protection and skincare after a skin pigmentation treatment.
Most patients describe the sensation as similar to when you snap a rubber band against your skin. You may also experience mild warmth or tingling during the procedure, depending on the laser settings and the treatment area.
You may need around three to five treatment sessions, although this varies depending on the type and depth of pigmentation involved. Some pigmentation concerns respond relatively quickly, while deeper or more stubborn pigmentation may take longer to improve.
Downtime is usually minimal. You may experience mild redness, warmth, or slight skin sensitivity for several hours after treatment, with most symptoms settling within 24 hours. In some cases, treated pigmentation may temporarily appear darker before gradually fading.
Temporary side effects can occur after pigmentation removal treatment. These may include redness, mild swelling, dryness, skin sensitivity, or temporary darkening of the treated areas. Although less common, irritation or post-inflammatory pigmentation may also occur, particularly if the skin is exposed to excessive heat or UV radiation during recovery.
Yes, laser treatments can still be performed on darker skin tones when appropriate laser settings and treatment approaches are used. As darker skin is more prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation, careful treatment planning and proper skin assessment are important before proceeding.
CONTACT OUTLET
Jean Yip Loft
307 New Bridge Rd, Jean Yip Loft #02-00, Singapore 088757
Phone: (65) 6797 9196
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