Pico Laser Pigmentation in Singapore
Achieve Clearer Skin with FDA-approved Pico laser for pigmentation.
Pico laser uses ultrashort pulses to break down your pigments into smaller particles.
- Treats Freckles, Sunspots, Melasma
- Effective for Hori's Nevus, Nevus of Ota.
- Stimulates Collagen to Reduce Fine Lines and Wrinkles
- Safe for All Skin Types
What Can Pico Laser Treat?
Pico laser pigmentation removal is safe and effective in treating a wide range of pigmentation conditions. These include common sun-induced freckles and solar lentigenes (sun spots). It has also been found to be effective in treating pigmented birthmarks such as Naevus of Ota and Cafe au lait macules (CALM). In addition, deep dermal lesions such as Hori’s Naevus have been found to respond positively to pico laser treatments. Pico laser treatments are also used in Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) resulting most commonly from acne.
How does Pico Laser Pigmentation removal work?
Over the past few decades, there have been strides in laser technology. The principle of selective photothermolysis established in 1980s enabled lasers to selectively target melanin, haemoglobin and water within the skin. Primarily, lasers are classified as either long-pulsed (microseond to milliseconds) or short-pulsed (nanoseconds to picoseconds) in laser dermatology.
Pico laser pigmentation uses high power and ultra fast laser pulses to break down pigments without too much heating to the surrounding skin. The lasers are so fast, one trillionth of a second, that it breaks down your pigments into smaller particles. These finely shattered pigments are subsequently removed by the body’s natural healing processes.
Differences between Nanosecond and Picosecond Lasers.
Speed is the key determining factor. The ultra fast pulse released from the picosecond laser platform exerts a photoacoustic or photomechanical effect. Blasting pigments into smaller particles without overheating of the surrounding tissues allows lower downtime, side effects and fewer laser sessions. Picosecond laser treatments have a lower incidence of Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) compared to nano-second Q-Switched lasers.
The Picosecond Laser Difference:
- FDA-approved
- Breaks pigments into smaller fragments than Q-Switched lasers
- Safer in all skin types
- Effective for Pigmentation, Acne Scars and Skin Rejuvenation
- Lesser risks of Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation(PIH)
- Less pain and faster healer times
Systemic Review of Picosecond Laser in Dermatology
A review of the literature ranging from case series, retrospective analysis and randomized controlled trials suggests that Picosecond laser is more effective in some pigmentation disorders than others.
The levels of evidence are assigned to studies based on their quality of design, validity and applicability to patient care, viz. Level 1 and 2 evidence is stronger than Level 6 or 7.
For example, a patient with mixed pigmentation disorder such as freckles, solar lentigenes and melasma may notice that the former 2 conditions respond better to treatment than the latter. To date, the role of picosecond laser for Melasma remains mixed and unclear. The risks of recurrence, rebound and hypopigmentation (white spots) negates the use of Picosecond laser as monotherapy for melasma.
The type pigmentation condition, your skin type and their differing response to laser treatment are considered at APAX Medical & Aesthetics Clinic. A consultation with Dr Moses Ng, an experienced and skilled laser surgeon, will determine the best Pico laser pigmentation removal treatment for you.
The pico laser’s ability to reach its target beneath the skin without overheating, while leaving the upper skin layer intact is advantageous. The delivery of ultra fast pulses with the pico laser pigmentation laser means that recovery is quick for most cases. Generally, most scabs fall off within a week.
The PICO Laser pigmentation removal treatment is suitable for most individuals who are in generally good health with reasonable expectations of the benefits of the procedure.
PICO laser treatments, like any other medical procedures, has a few contraindications. Please let the doctor know if you have a medical history of the following conditions:
- Active skin inflammation or infection
- Open skin wounds
- Herpes infection
- Active Acne
- Hypersensitivity or seizures to flashing lights
- Medications that increases light sensitivity.
Most treatments are tolerated well. A tingling sensation is commonly felt. We use numbing cream prior to your treatment to maximise comfort and experience.
Depending on the type of condition treated, you may notice early results after your first treatment session.
A gentle cleanser and moisturizers are advisable to keep your skin clean and hydrated. You may be prescribed a topical antibiotic to minimize the risk of infections. Stay away from direct and prolonged sunlight, and protect yourself by using a sunscreen (SPF 50 and PA+++).
Avoid exfoliants, AHA/BHA and retinoids for at least one week after your procedure to avoid unwanted skin irritation.
Pico laser pigmentation treatment depend on the size of treatment area and the type of pigmentation involved. A consultation and assessment of your skin type and medical history are factors we take in account when advising the costs of the treatment. An average of 5-10 treatment sessions are spaced at least 4 weeks apart.
More Information:
- Picosecond Nd:YAG laser – Picocare 450
- Picosecond Laser- DermNet
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Get in touch with us with any questions, pricing, or bookings.
Or give us a call at +65 6769 6007 | WhatsApp us +65 9855 3022
References:
- Chan JC, Shek SY, Kono T, Yeung CK, Chan HH. A retro–spective analysis on the management of pigmented lesions using a picosecond 755nm alexandrite laser in Asians. Lasers Surg Med 2016;48(1):23–29.
- Kung KY, Shek SY, Yeung CK, Chan HH. Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of the dual wavelength picosecond laser for the treatment of benign pigmented lesions in Asians. Lasers Surg Med 2019;51(1):14– 22.
- Yu W, Zhu J, Yu W, Lyu D, Lin X, Zhang Z. A split-face, single-blinded, randomized controlled comparison of alexandrite 755-nm picosecond laser versus alexandrite 755-nm nanosecond laser in the treatment of acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules. J Am Acad Dermatol 2018;79:479-86.
- Wu, D.C., Goldman, M.P., Wat, H. and Chan, H.H. (2021), A Systematic Review of Picosecond Laser in Dermatology: Evidence and Recommendations. Lasers Surg Med, 53: 9-49. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.23244
