Pigmentation Removal Treatment in Singapore:
Visibly Clearer Skin in Just 1 Session
Whether you’re fair, tan, or somewhere in between, pigmentation is what gives your skin its colour. Due to factors such as genetics and excess sun exposure, however, spots or patches of your skin may be darker than the rest. Luckily, freckles, birthmarks, age spots and other unwanted pigmentation can be easily removed with pigmentation removal treatment. Today, we delve deep into the topic of pigmentation, covering aspects such as causes, the types of pigmentation removal treatments available and the cost of pigmentation removal in Singapore.
What Causes Pigmentation?
The three primary causes of pigmentation are genes, sun exposure and hormones.
Genes: Birthmarks, which refers to pigmentation formed at or shortly after birth, falls under this category. Freckles and sun spots are hereditary, so if you have one or more parents with pigmentation, you’re more prone to having it than other people.
Sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure, especially in the absence of sunscreen, can cause the size of melanocytes (specialised cells which produce melanin) to increase and pigment to form.
Hormones: Women are more prone to pigmentation (3x greater risk than men), especially during periods of large hormonal fluctuations (i.e., during or after pregnancy, during menopause).
Want to know what’s causing your pigmentation? Consult our skincare professionals today for their opinion.
What is Pigmentation Removal?
Pigmentation removal is a process in which unwanted pigmentation is removed from the skin, typically through equipment like lasers. At HAACH, we use intense pulsed light (IPL) in our treatment plans for pigmentation removal, which effectively targets and breaks down excess melanin for smooth, evenly-coloured skin.
Types of Pigmentation
Melasma
Dark grey or grey-brown patches on both sides of the face, melasma is typically caused by waxing, inflammation, hormones, sun exposure, diet and chemicals.
Freckles
Freckles are flat brown marks that appear on a person’s skin. Excessive sun exposure can cause freckles, and they can be transmitted genetically via the MC1R gene. Typically, they are smaller than 0.5cm.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks are formed during birth or shortly after (e.g., weeks later). There are two main types of birthmarks: pigmented birthmarks and vascular birthmarks. While pigmented birthmarks are caused by an overgrowth of cells, vascular birthmarks are a result of incorrect blood vessel formation.
Solar Lentigines (Sun spots)
Sun spots appear as tan, brown or black spots on the skin. Typically appearing later in life, solar lentigines or sun spots are caused by UV radiation from the sun’s rays or tanning beds. Generally, sun spots range from 0.5cm-2 cm in size.
Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Caused by 1 of 2 mechanisms (epidermal or dermal melanosis), post inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces extra melanin following skin inflammation or an injury. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can take the form of dark marks or blemishes.
Hori’s Naevus
Hori’s naevus manifests as multiple discoloured spots ranging from blue-brown to slate-grey, and typically forms in older adults. Hori’s nevus develops in the deeper layers of the skin, unlike freckles which are formed on its surface.
Melanocytic Naevi (Moles)
Moles are formed by clusters of pigmented cells (melanocytes). Moles come in different colours, shapes and sizes and can be flat or raised. Typically, they appear during childhood and adolescence, but new moles may appear up till the age of 50.
Seborrheic Keratosis (Age spots)
Age spots are small, flat and irregularly shaped dark areas on the skin. As their name implies, age spots are correlated with age, appearing typically in middle age and later. However, sun exposure means they can form much earlier (e.g., 20s). Age spots are also referred to as “sun spots”.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Sebaceous hyperplasia are small, yellow bumps that form due to clogged skin follicles. Typically, it develops in adults aged above 40: the older you are, the more susceptible you are.
Types of Pigmentation Removal Treatment
At HAACH, we offer a total of 8 pigmentation removal treatments based on IPL (intense pulsed light) technology, which also goes by the terms “photofacial” and “photorejuvenation”. One common misconception people have is that IPL is a type of laser treatment. In reality, IPL treatment and laser treatment are different. IPL targets the lower layers of skin (dermis) and breaks down the pigment melanin to eradicate or reduce any blemishes or flaws. Lasers, in comparison, “resurface” the skin by targeting its top layers (epidermis).
Unlike lasers, which focus on only one wavelength of light, IPL releases several wavelengths on the target area to address multiple conditions simultaneously and treat a larger area faster. On your face, IPL has a twofold advantage of reducing pigmentation while stimulating the production of collagen at the same time. As your treatment progresses, its effects will become significantly more pronounced, which is why we recommend multiple treatments at regular intervals.
Aqua Porcelain Facial
Description
Elevate the tone of your skin with a cell renewal facial treatment that not only provides visibly improved results but also ensures well-hydrated and resilient skin for a youthful appearance.
Key Benefits
- Revitalises and moisturises skin
- Infusion of active ingredients
- Improves skin elasticity
- Radiant and flawless complexion
- Achieve gorgeous and youthful and tightened skin
Suitable for: Dry skin, sensitive skin, ageing skin, wrinkles, pigmented skin
Duration: 90 minutes
Aqua
Porcelain Facial
$381
Description
Bring out the radiant and flawless complexion of your skin with a cell renewal facial that deliver visible results for a moisturised skin. Achieve a hydrated and bubbly tightened skin for a youthful and rejuvenating look!
Key Benefits
- Revitalize and moisturise skin
- Infusion of active ingredients
- Improved skin elasticity
- Radiant and flawless complexion
- Achieve gorgeous and youthful and tightened skin
Procedure
Step 1: Pure Lavender Tension Relieve Massage
Step 2: Make up Remover
Step 3: Deep Cleanse & Exfoliation
Step 4: Rose calming mask and extractions.
Step 5: Aqua Elixir Ampoule with Snonophresis penetration
Step 6: Collagen gel with Sonophoresis penetration
Step 7: Face and shoulder massage with relaxing anti-aging cream
Step 8: Hydration Mask Application
Step 9: Finishing with Daily Skin Care Routine
Suitable for:
- Dry skin
- Sensitive skin
- Aging skin
- Wrinkle
- Dehydrated
- Pigmented Skin
Duration: 90 minutes
Suggestion: Once every 2 weeks
Oxygeneo Classic (2 In 1) Tripolar Plus Ultrasound
Description
Elevate the tone of your skin with a cell renewal facial treatment that not only provides visibly improved results but also ensures well-hydrated and resilient skin for a youthful appearance.
Key Benefits
- Plumps and hydrates skin
- Restores skin volume
- Renews youthful glow
- Revitalises dull complexion
- Reduces appearance of wrinkles
- Firms skin and tightens pores
- Improves skin cell production
- Reduces pigmentation
Suitable for: All skin types including dry, sensitive and oily skin
Duration: 90 minutes
Suggested frequency: Once every 2 weeks
Oxygeneo Classic (2 In 1 )
Tripolar Plus Ultrasound
$581
Description
Restore your skin’s clarity and complexion to a youthful and true look! With cutting edge technology from the tripolar machine, achieve much faster results and effectiveness in just a few treatment!
Key Benefits
- Plump skin and hydration
- Restore skin volume
- Renew youthful glow
- Revitalize dull complexion
- Reduce appearance of wrinkles
- Firm skin and tighten pores
- Improve skin cell production
- Reduce pigmentation
Procedure
Step 1: Pure Lavender Relaxing Oil
Step 2: Cleansing Milk
Step 3: Foam wash and Peeling with Ananas Exfoliating Gel
Step 4: Calming mask, Extraction, Eyebrow trimming and Toning antiseptic
Step 5: Tripolar with gel penetration
Step 6: Penetration of serum using Sonophoresis machine
Step 7: Lifting Face Massage with Hydrating serum/gel/cream
Step 8: Relaxing Anti-aging cream and Shoulder Massage
Step 9: Collagen Paper Mask application
Step 10: Daily Skincare application, Toner, Moisturiser and Sunscreen
Suitable for:
Safe for all skin type
Duration: 90 minutes
Suggestion: Once every 2 weeks
Clear Away Facial & Neck (IP)
Description
Eliminate pigmentation, redness and irregular skin tone with our advanced Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment. Experience a solution to acne, redness and rosacea issues with our Clear Away Facial.
Key Benefits
- Remove red spots or diffuse redness
- Helps with acne or rosacea
- Minimises large pores
- Eliminates wrinkles by stimulating collagen growth
- Eliminates pigmentation irregularities and sun spots
- Repairs tiny visible blood vessels
Suitable for: Dry skin, sensitive skin, ageing skin, pigmented skin
Duration: 90 minutes
Suggested frequency: Once every 2 weeks
Clear Away
Facial
$431
Description
Clear pigmentation, redness and uneven skin tone with our intensed pulsed light (IPL). Acne outbreaks with masks (maskne) are common these days. Get your acne, redness or rosacea conditions resolved by trying out the Clear Away Facial Treatment.
Key Benefits
- Remove red spots or diffuse redness.
- Helps with acne or rosacea
- Minimize large pores
- Eliminate wrinkles by stimulating collagen growth
- Eliminates pigmentation irregularities and sun spots
- Repairing tiny visible blood vessels
Procedure
Step 1: Pure Lavender Relaxing Oil
Step 2: Cleansing Milk
Step 3: Foam wash and Peeling with Ananas Exfoliating Gel
Step 4: Calming mask, Extraction, Eyebrow trimming and Toning antiseptic
Step 5: Face Point Massage
Step 6: IPL Procedure with IPL Gel
Step 7: Relaxing Anti-aging cream and Shoulder Massage
Step 8: Collagen Paper Mask application
Step 9: Daily Skincare application, Toner, Moisturiser and Sunscreen
Suitable for:
- Dull Skin
- Dehydrated Skin
- Wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone
- Pigmented Skin
Duration: 60 minutes
Suggestion: Once every 2 weeks
Peaches And Cream
Description
A delicious treat for your skin, this treatment is suitable for all skin types and lives up to its name: it gently exfoliates, leaving your skin soft and bouncy. Let the compliments flow in.
Key Benefits
- Exfoliates dead skin cells, dirt and grime
- Reduces clogged pores, excess oil and dry skin
- Reduces fine lines & wrinkles
- Improves skin circulation
- Improves skin texture
- Smoother and softer skin
Suitable for: All skin types including dry, sensitive and oily skin
Duration: 75 minutes
Suggested frequency: Once every 2 weeks
Reviva Brightening
Description
Revitalise your facial beauty with a combination of potent elements that contribute to a silky smooth complexion, imbuing it with a radiant translucence and luminosity from deep within. Explore the enduring benefits of alpine rose for timeless results.
Key Benefits
- Increases skin stem cells’s vitality
- Boosts epidermal regeneration
- Intensifies hydration
- Infused with stem cells of alpine rose for sublime effects
Suitable for: Ageing skin, wrinkles, dehydrated skin, pigmented skin
Duration: 75 minutes
Suggested frequency: Once every 2 weeks
Reviva
Brightening
$281
Description
Rejuvenate and nurture the beauty of your face with a mix of potent ingredients that aid in providing a silky smooth visage with a flash of translucency and luminosity from within. Discover the pure power of Alphine Rose with everlasting effects!
Key Benefits
- Increased skin stem cells’s vitality
- Boost epidermal regeneration
- Intense Hydration
- Infused with stem cells of Alphine Rose for sublime effects
Procedure
Step 1: Pure Lavender Tension Relieve Massage
Step 2: Make up Remover
Step 3: Deep Cleanse & Exfoliation
Step 4: Rose calming mask and extractions.
Step 5: Rose serum and pressure point massage with ice crystal ball
Step 6: Face and shoulder massage with relaxing anti-aging cream
Step 7: Reactive Gel Mask Application
Step 8: Revitalizing Mask
Step 9: Finishing with Daily Skin Care Routine
Suitable for:
- Aging skin
- Wrinkle
- Dehydrated
- Pigmented Skin
Duration: 75 minutes
Suggestion: Once every 2 weeks
Reviva Rose Stem Cells Intensive Skin Revitalisation Set
Description
Revitalise your facial beauty with a combination of potent elements that contribute to a silky smooth complexion, imbuing it with a radiant translucence and luminosity from deep within. Explore the enduring benefits of alpine rose for timeless results.
Key Benefits
- Increases skin stem cells’s vitality
- Boosts epidermal regeneration
- Intensifies hydration
- Infused with stem cells of alpine rose for sublime effects
Suitable for: Ageing skin, wrinkles, dehydrated skin, pigmented skin
Duration: 90 minutes
Suggested frequency: Once every 2 weeks
Reviva Rose Stem Cells
Intensive Skin Revitalisation Set
$591
Description
Rejuvenate and nurture the beauty of your face with a mix of potent ingredients that aid in providing a silky smooth visage with a flash of translucency and luminosity from within. Discover the pure power of Alphine Rose with everlasting effects
Key Benefits
- Increased skin stem cells’s vitality
- Boost epidermal regeneration
- Intense Hydration
- Infused with stem cells of Alphine Rose for sublime effects
Procedure
Step 1: Pure Lavender Tension Relieve Massage
Step 2: Make up Remover
Step 3: Deep Cleanse & Exfoliation
Step 4: Rose calming mask and extractions.
Step 5: Rose serum and pressure point massage with ice crystal ball
Step 6: Face and shoulder massage with relaxing anti-aging cream
Step 7: Reactive Gel Mask Application with Oxygen Jet Infusion
Step 8: Revitalizing Mask
Step 9: Finishing with Daily Skin Care Routine
Suitable for:
- Aging skin
- Wrinkle
- Dehydrated
- Pigmented Skin
Duration: 90 minutes
Suggestion: Once every 2 weeks
Fitzpatrick Scale and IPL Treatment
We use the Fitzpatrick scale in determining the type of pigmentation removal treatment to use.
As seen in the image above, this scale classifies skin by six types. Here’s the recommended IPL light intensity according to your skin type and colour.
Pigmentation Removal Risks
Below are a few risks commonly associated with pigmentation removal.
- Mild itching
- Minor infection
- Redness
- Crusting
Although much less likely, these risks could still occur:
- Burns
- Oscular (eye) injury
- Scarring
- Dyspigmentation (abnormal formation or distribution of pigmentation in skin)
Pigmentation Removal Procedure
While each procedure may differ slightly, here’s the flow of a typical pigmentation removal session at HAACH.
Step 1: Your skincare therapist will provide a soothing lavender oil massage.
Step 2: Any makeup on your face will be gently removed.
Step 3: We’ll perform a thorough deep cleanse and exfoliation to rejuvenate your skin.
Step 4: A calming mask will be applied, and any necessary extractions will be skillfully performed.
Step 5: Enjoy a relaxing face massage, during which we may apply a nourishing serum or gel.
Step 6: You can opt for an IPL treatment with IPL gel for skin rejuvenation or a moisturising massage.
Step 7 & 8: Experience the indulgence of a face mask, with or without a relaxing massage.
Step 9: We complete your skincare routine by applying daily essentials: toner, moisturiser, and sunscreen.
Benefits of Pigmentation Removal (IPL Treatment)
IPL treatment can stimulate collagen production, giving your skin a healthy glow and bounce. Results can be seen within a few weeks, and it involves minimal downtime so your day-to-day activities aren’t disrupted. IPL treatment can be combined with other facial skin procedures (e.g., chemical peels) for a more holistic approach that effectively targets both the surface layer and deeper layers of your skin. It can also treat stubborn skin issues – visible capillaries, stubborn acne scarring and sun damage, just to name a few.
Still unsure about how you can benefit from pigmentation removal treatment ? Book a no-obligation consultation at one of our 5 outlets with our skincare professionals.
Disclaimer: After removal, pigmentation could reappear due to sun damage or hormonal changes. We recommend undergoing a maintenance session once every 6-12 months (consult our therapists for more information).
How Much Does Pigmentation Removal Cost in Singapore?
The cost of pigmentation removal can vary wildly. In Singapore, pigmentation removal costs SGD 200- SGD 3,000. This cost is dependent on the number of sessions you need, how experienced your aesthetician is, and the type of equipment used.
Is Pigmentation Removal Suitable for me?
Pigmentation removal is suitable for people with:
✔ All skin colours (especially fairer skin)
✔ Age spots, freckles, birthmarks etc.
Pigmentation removal may not be suitable for people with:
❌Excessively tanned skin
❌An active prescription of blood-thinning medications
❌ Active cold sores at the time of treatment
❌ An active infection at the time of treatment
❌ A disease stimulated by light (e.g., epilepsy)
❌ An impaired immune system due to medications or immunosuppressive diseases
Why Haach for Pigmentation Removal?
Haach’s skincare professionals have received extensive training for skin treatment procedures. They stay up to date with the latest techniques and am committed to meeting your needs. At Haach, we believe that everyone should have access to skin care services, and strive to embody that as much as possible
FAQ
1. Can Pigmentation Removal Treat All Types of Pigmentation?
Pigmentation removal treatments, particularly IPL, utilize light energy to target various pigmentation issues like sun spots, freckles, and melasma. However, the effectiveness may vary, and a consultation with a specialist can determine the most suitable approach for specific pigmentation types.
2. Is Pigmentation Removal Treatment Painful?
While pigmentation removal treatments may sting, they aren’t painful per se. To give you an idea, most patients liken the sensation of their session to the gentle snapping of a rubber band.
3. How Many IPL Treatments Does it Take to Remove Pigmentation?
Depending on your skin type, how deep the pigmentation runs, and your commitment to the treatment schedule, you can expect to see significant improvements to your skin in 2-8 treatments. We recommend going for multiple sessions as each session builds on the results of the previous one for effects that last longer.
3. How Long Does Pigmentation Removal Last?
Pigmentation removal can last between 1-2 months: for the recommended frequency and number of treatments, kindly consult your aesthetician. After you’ve completed your treatment plan, we recommend a periodic maintenance treatment of once every 6-12 months.
4. How to Prevent Your Pigmentation From Worsening?
- Always use sunscreen outdoors. Use sunscreen indoors, even on cloudy days.
- Buy and apply sunscreen of SPF 30-50.
- Said sunscreen should come with a “PA+++” or “broad-spectrum coverage for ultraviolet-A & B” label.
5. Is IPL Treatment Good for Pigmentation Removal?
Yes, IPL treatment is good for pigmentation removal. As it’s more gentle than laser treatment, there is little to no downtime involved. Although there might be some redness, you can resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure.
6. Are There Any Precautions Before Undergoing Pigmentation Removal?
Before treatment, it’s crucial to avoid excessive sun exposure, as it can affect the skin’s sensitivity. Additionally, discontinuing specific medications, especially those that increase the risk of photosensitivity, might be advised. Consulting with a healthcare professional ensures personalised guidance based on individual health and circumstances.
7. What's the Downtime After a Pigmentation Removal Session?
IPL treatments typically have minimal downtime. While some individuals may experience temporary redness or mild irritation, it usually subsides quickly. Most people can resume their regular activities immediately after the session, making it a convenient treatment option.
8. Can Pigmentation Removal Help with Acne Scars?
Yes, pigmentation removal treatments, such as IPL, can contribute to improving the appearance of acne scars. By stimulating collagen production, these treatments help in smoothing out skin texture, reducing the visibility of scars over time.
9. Is Pigmentation Removal Safe for All Skin Types?
While pigmentation removal is generally safe, individuals with darker skin tones should exercise caution. Some treatments may carry a risk of post-peel color changes, especially in darker skin. It’s advisable to consult with a qualified practitioner to assess the suitability of specific treatments for different skin types.
10. Do you Need to Visit the Doctor for Pigmentation Removal Aftercare?
No, you don’t need to visit the doctor for pigmentation removal aftercare, it can be done at home. To alleviate any discomfort or swelling, we recommend that you use cold packs. Your doctor may also provide you with a post treatment balm to keep the area soothed.
11. Is Pigmentation Removal Permanent?
No, pigmentation removal is not permanent. One common mistake people make is falling back into old habits after completing their treatment courses, and not actively protecting their skin. For treatment effects to last longer, we recommend taking measures such as applying sunscreen of SPF 30-50, wearing hats or caps, and using UV-ray blocking umbrellas. Also, whenever possible, stay out of direct sunlight.
12. Are Lasers Suitable For Darker Skin Types?
Yes, lasers are suitable for darker skin types. Lasers such as Gentle YAG Pro-U and PiXel8-RF are able to penetrate deep into the skin, bypassing the pigmentation such that the skin’s surface layer isn’t damaged. Having said that, no matter what skin tone you have, there’s always a risk of post peel colour change involved.
13. Are There Subsidies for Pigmentation Removal?
Yes, you can get pigmentation removal at a subsidised rate from NSC (national skin centre) and Singhealth’s hospitals and clinics. However, it might be difficult to secure a slot as they are limited, and consultations are typically by appointment only.
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Medical References
Alexis, A. F. (2013). Lasers and light-based therapies in ethnic skin: treatment options and recommendations for Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI. British Journal of Dermatology, 169, 91–97. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.12526
Filoni, A., Mariano, M., & Cameli, N. (2019). Melasma: How hormones can modulate skin pigmentation. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 18(2), 458–463. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12877
Lawrence, E. (2022, October 3). Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559150/
Passeron, T., Genedy, R. M., Salah, L. A., Fusade, T., Kositratna, G., Laubach, H., . . . Badawi, A. (2019). Laser treatment of hyperpigmented lesions: position statement of the European Society of Laser in Dermatology. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 33(6), 987–1005. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15497
Sales, A. F. S., Pandolfo, I. L., De Almeida Cruz, M., Parisi, J. R., Assis, L., Martignago, C. C. S., . . . Vassão, P. G. (2021). Intense Pulsed Light on skin rejuvenation: a systematic review. Archives of Dermatological Research, 314(9), 823–838. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-021-02283-2
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