Some marks fade. Others don’t, or take longer than expected, even with the ‘right’ skincare products.
A pico laser treatment in Singapore may be worth considering when pigmentation is persistent or uneven. At Illumia Medical, we use PicoSure to support skin renewal, with progressive improvement in clarity, tone, and texture.
pulse is delivered in a trillionth of a second, much faster than old laser systems, which use longer pulses.
Different pico laser treatments in Singapore can vary based on:
At Illumia Medical, we use PicoSure, an FDA-cleared picosecond laser platform with multiple wavelengths and delivery modes.
Settings can be adjusted across different skin tones, which is particularly relevant in Asian skin, where the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation needs to be considered.
Rather than slowly fading pigment with heat, these pulses fragment it into smaller particles, which are then cleared through natural processes. This interaction is often described as a photomechanical effect, where energy is converted into a pressure-based impact rather than heat.
The energy also creates microscopic zones beneath the surface that trigger a repair response. In some settings, this may form tiny vacuoles within the skin (sometimes referred to as Laser-Induced Optical Breakdown), which can support collagen activity during the healing phase. As the skin recovers, this supports collagen activity and gradual improvement in texture.
Because energy is delivered in shorter pulses, less heat accumulates in the skin. Older nanosecond (Q-switched) lasers rely more on heat, which can increase the likelihood of redness or irritation. With picosecond pulses, the effect is more localised, so the surrounding tissue is less affected and recovery is typically quicker.
Pigmentation refers to areas where excess melanin appears as uneven or darkened patches, while sunspots (solar lentigines) are more defined marks linked to long-term sun exposure. These typically sit closer to the surface. By breaking excess pigment into smaller particles, a pico laser treatment supports a more even-looking skin tone over time.
Melasma sits deeper in the skin and is influenced by factors such as hormones, heat, and sun exposure, which makes it more prone to recurring. Treatment is done more gradually, with sessions spaced out to manage pigment while reducing the risk of overstimulation.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) refers to the dark marks left behind after inflammation, such as acne. Some marks fade on their own, while others persist. Pico laser treatment focuses on reducing residual pigment so the skin appears more even as it recovers.
When addressing acne scars, the focus shifts from pigment to surface irregularities. Specific settings are used to create controlled changes beneath the skin, supporting a repair response that helps soften shallow scars and improve overall texture. In cases where scars are deeper or more complex, pico laser treatment may be combined with other modalities as part of a broader treatment plan.
Tattoo pigment differs from natural skin pigment. Picosecond pulses break ink into finer fragments, which are gradually cleared. The number of pico laser treatment sessions depends on factors such as ink colour, depth, and how long the tattoo has been present.
If your skin appears dull, uneven, or slightly rough, a pico laser treatment can be adjusted to support renewal beneath the surface.
Not all skin concerns can be addressed with the same pico laser settings or approach.
Book a consultation at Illumia Medical to understand what your skin actually needs.
PicoSure Laser | Other Pico Lasers | |
Regulatory Standards | Uses an FDA-cleared picosecond laser platform | Not all pico laser devices may be FDA-cleared |
Technology Setup | Multi-wavelength system with adjustable delivery modes | May be limited to a single wavelength or fewer configurations |
Treatment Approach | Customised based on pigment depth, skin type, and treatment goals | May be more standardised depending on device capability |
Range of Concerns | Can address pigmentation, acne scars, pores, and overall skin quality | May be focused on specific concerns depending on the device |
Suitability Across Skin Types | Settings can be adjusted for different skin tones and sensitivities | Suitability may vary depending on the device and the settings available |
Downtime | Typically minimal, with most returning to daily activities shortly after | Downtime may vary depending on how the device delivers energy |
Treatment Experience | Settings are adjusted to balance effectiveness and skin response | Experience may differ based on device precision and configuration |
We start by assessing your skin — looking at the type of pigmentation, depth, and overall skin condition — so we can determine the appropriate settings and approach for your treatment.
We’ll remove any makeup, oil, or sunscreen to cleanse your skin. This allows the laser energy to be delivered evenly.
For certain areas or treatment intensities, a topical numbing cream may be applied. This is not always necessary, but it can help improve your comfort throughout the procedure.
The pico laser is applied across targeted areas. You may feel a light snapping or tingling sensation, often described as similar to a rubber band against the skin. Energy delivery may vary across different areas depending on whether the focus is pigment or texture.
After the session, your skin may appear slightly flushed or feel warm. We’ll apply soothing products and provide aftercare guidance, including sun protection and how to skincare tips for the following days.
The number of pico laser treatment sessions varies depending on the concern and its severity.
Superficial pigmentation may respond more quickly, while deeper or more persistent concerns usually require a series of treatments spaced out over time.
Sessions are often spaced a few weeks apart, depending on the treatment plan.
Rather than a dramatic change after one session, results are typically gradual and cumulative. Early changes may be noticeable after the first few treatments, with improvement becoming more apparent as the course progresses.
Maintenance sessions may be recommended for concerns that can recur.
Get In Touch
Our friendly team is looking forward to serving you. For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call the clinic directly.
We’ll assess your skin and discuss what is realistic for your specific concern, so your treatment plan is aligned with how your skin is likely to respond.
For a pico laser treatment, the focus is on areas where excess pigment appears as freckles, sunspots, or residual marks after inflammation. The aim is to reduce visible contrast so your skin tone appears more even.
For acne scars, the focus is on areas where the skin surface appears uneven due to shallow depressions. This approach is generally suited for milder scarring. Deeper scars may require a broader treatment plan.
Illumia Medical doctors bring years of experience across aesthetic medicine, plastic surgery, and Korean facial contouring techniques.
We adjust your treatment based on what you’re treating and how your skin responds from one session to the next.
With training in South Korea and experience treating Asian facial features, we can enhance definition and maintain natural proportion.
You’re guided through what can be achieved, what to expect, and how the treatment will be carried out.
Illumia Medical is located at Wheelock Place, in Orchard, offering convenient access for appointments and ongoing treatment.
