ALL ABOUT SKIN

I have heard about the picosecond laser. Tell me more about it!

Pigment lasers can lighten facial pigmentation, certain birthmarks and tattoo pigment from the skin. Superficial and deep facial pigmentation can both be treated. The picosecond medical non-ablative laser operates in the ultrashort picosecond domain, which breaks down pigment into smaller fragments compared to traditional Q-switched lasers. This enables the immune system to clear the small fragments more efficiently, and reduces the number of treatments required. Depending on your condition, a few treatment sessions are often necessary to lighten the pigmentation. In addition to pigment lightening, the picosecond laser also delivers skin brightening and tightening effects, resulting in overall natural radiance. Speak to our dermatologists regarding this laser therapy.  

What happens during a laser treatment?

For your utmost comfort, a numbing cream is applied 20 minutes before the procedure. During laser treatment, you may feel a pricking sensation, similar to a rubber band snapping on the skin. This is usually bearable and short-lived.

How can I take care of my skin after laser?

There may be redness and burning discomfort immediately after laser, and may last for several hours to a few days, depending on the type of laser treatment. The discomfort can be relieved by using an ice-pack application. Prescribed recovery creams and moisturisers should be applied as directed. It is important not to rub the skin during cleaning, but gently pat dry instead. Over the next 3 to 7 days, redness will subside as the skin recovers. Avoid swimming and contact sports until the skin recovers. Over the next few months, minimise excessive sun exposure and use the recommended sunscreen daily to reduce the risk of post-laser pigmentation and to prevent recurrence of facial pigmentation.

Is this laser safe?

In the hands of our experienced dermatologists, this treatment is a very safe procedure. In some patients, discolouration of the skin (excessive lightening or darkening) may occur, but please be rest assured that this is temporary and will gradually improve over the next few months. The risk of pigmentary changes after laser is lower with the picosecond laser compared to older generation pigment lasers. Post-laser skincare is important to help in recovery.

Why is my pigmentation still present after laser?

Some pigment may be located too deep in the skin to be removed completely and safely despite repeated treatments. Removal of pigment also depends on the individual’s immune system, as everyone has varying abilities to clear the pigment after laser.