Pigmentation, pores, dull skin? Here’s how to choose the right laser treatment in Singapore

If you live in Singapore, chances are you have dealt with some form of pigmentation, enlarged pores, or dull skin. The year-round sun, humid weather, and even stress can take a toll on your skin. Add in hormonal changes, post-acne marks, or the natural ageing process, and it is no wonder many of us find ourselves searching for the best laser for pigmentation in Singapore.

The good news? You have more treatment options than ever before. The tricky part is choosing the right one for your skin type and concern.

Why pigmentation is so common in Singapore

Our tropical climate means strong UV exposure every single day, even when it is cloudy. This accelerates melanin production, leading to stubborn pigmentation such as sunspots and uneven skin tone.

Acne breakouts can leave post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in their wake, while hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or due to oral contraceptives can trigger melasma.

Without proper prevention and treatment, these dark patches often linger.

Many options exist – here’s how to pick the right laser

The most effective pigmentation treatments target melanin at different skin depths, while also improving overall tone and texture. The right choice depends on:

• Type of pigmentation (superficial vs deep)
• Skin sensitivity
• Whether you also have pores, scars or dullness to address

Types of pigmentation & what causes it

Sunspots

Also known as solar lentigines, these appear after years of sun exposure and are usually found on the cheeks, forehead, and hands.

Melasma

A hormonally driven pigmentation that appears as larger, symmetrical patches, often across the cheeks and upper lip. It can be triggered by pregnancy, birth control pills, or even heat.

PIH (Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

These are brown or dark marks left after acne, eczema, or skin injury. They can fade over time but often persist without treatment.

Which lasers work best for each concern

Here are the most popular and effective pigmentation laser treatments in Singapore, and what they are best for.

Pico Laser

• Best for: Deep pigment, melasma, stubborn PIH
• Uses ultra-short pulses to shatter pigment particles without heating surrounding skin.
• Also improves acne scars and uneven tone when used in fractional mode.
• Learn more about Pico Laser (Quattro Toning at SW1) – how much it costs in Singapore: $600/session

Fractional CO2 Laser

• Best for: Pigment + texture + scars
• Works on deeper layers of the skin to resurface and stimulate collagen, improving large pores, acne scars, and stubborn pigmentation.
• Learn more about Fractional CO2 Laser (SmartX at SW1) – how much it costs in Singapore: $450/session

Clear + Brilliant Laser

• Best for: Surface-level brightening and tone refinement
• Ideal for fixing dull skin, smoothing rough texture, and reducing pore size with minimal downtime.
• Learn more about Clear + Brilliant Laser (Clear Brilliance at SW1) – how much it costs in Singapore: $1000/session

What to expect: results, downtime, ideal candidates

• Results: Most patients see visible improvement in pigmentation, tone, and texture after a few sessions.
• Downtime: Pico Laser and Clear + Brilliant have minimal downtime, while Fractional CO2 may involve 3-7 days of redness and micro-crusting.
• Ideal candidates: Anyone with pigmentation, uneven tone, or textural concerns, provided a doctor confirms the suitability of laser treatment for your skin type.

Why laser choice depends on skin type & concern

There is no one-size-fits-all laser. Choosing the wrong one can lead to prolonged redness, rebound pigmentation, or underwhelming results.

A proper evaluation by an experienced doctor is essential to determine:

• Your pigmentation depth
• Any underlying skin sensitivity
• The safest and most effective treatment plan for you

Where to get it in Singapore

At SW1 Clinic, you have access to a full suite of pigmentation and resurfacing lasers under

medical care. Whether you need a gentle toning session for melasma, a powerful pico laser pigmentation treatment, or fractional resurfacing for acne scars, your treatment will be customised to your skin’s needs.

FAQ

What is the best laser for pigmentation in Singapore?

The best laser depends on your pigmentation type. Pico Laser is excellent for deep pigment and melasma, Fractional CO2 works well for pigment plus texture and scars, and Clear + Brilliant is great for surface brightening.

Does pigmentation come back after laser?

It can if you do not protect your skin from the sun or address hormonal triggers. Maintenance treatments and daily SPF are key.

How many sessions do I need?

Most patients need 3-6 sessions for optimal results, spaced 3-4 weeks apart.