PICO Laser in Singapore for Pigmentation
& Acne Scars
A Comprehensive Guide to PICO Laser in Singapore
Pico laser is a non‑surgical treatment that targets visible pigmentation, acne scars and dull skin using ultra‑short bursts of laser energy. At EHA Clinic, we utilize the PICO laser to help suitable patients achieve clearer and more even‑toned skin with minimal downtime.
Pico lasers deliver energy in picoseconds (trillionths of a second), breaking pigment into very fine particles that the body can gradually clear away. Instead of relying mainly on heat, the laser uses a photoacoustic effect, which helps minimise thermal damage to surrounding skin and reduces the risk of complications such as burns or prolonged redness.
- Pigmentation and birthmarks
- Fine lines
- Skin rejuvenation
- Tattoo removal
PICO Laser in Singapore for Pigmentation
& Acne Scars
A Comprehensive Guide to PICO Laser in Singapore
Pico laser is a non‑surgical treatment that targets visible pigmentation, acne scars and dull skin using ultra‑short bursts of laser energy. At EHA Clinic, we utilize the PICO laser to help suitable patients achieve clearer and more even‑toned skin with minimal downtime.
Pico lasers deliver energy in picoseconds (trillionths of a second), breaking pigment into very fine particles that the body can gradually clear away. Instead of relying mainly on heat, the laser uses a photoacoustic effect, which helps minimise thermal damage to surrounding skin and reduces the risk of complications such as burns or prolonged redness.
- Pigmentation and birthmarks
- Fine lines
- Skin rejuvenation
- Tattoo removal
PICO Laser Treatment at a Glance
TREATMENT FOR
Pigmentation removal, Acne scars removal, Skin rejuvenation & brightening, Tattoo removal
DOWNTIME
Usually minimal, varies by intensity and skin type
TREATMENT AREAS
Face, neck (other areas may be assessed on a case‑by‑case basis)
PROCEDURE TIME
Around 30 minutes for a typical facial session
*Results and number of sessions vary between individuals. A doctor’s assessment is required to determine suitability and expected outcomes.
What is PICO Laser?
Skin pigmentation, or darkening of certain areas of the skin, is a common sign of ageing and sun exposure. Over time, freckles, sunspots and other dark spots may appear more prominently on the face, hands and other sun‑exposed areas, and can make the skin look uneven or aged.
Pico laser is a cosmetic procedure that addresses these visible pigments on the skin. As a second‑generation picosecond laser, Discovery PICO can fragment melanin and other pigment without significantly affecting surrounding tissue. At EHA Clinic, Pico laser is performed by our doctors, using medical‑grade devices registered or approved for use in Singapore.
What can PICO Laser Treat?
PIGMENTATION
ACNE SCARS
SKIN REJUVENATION
& TEXTURE IMPROVEMENT
OVERALL SKIN BRIGHTENING
SELECTED
TATTOO REMOVAL
Pico laser is commonly performed on the face and neck. At EHA, Dr Elias will assess whether Pico laser is appropriate for your specific concern and skin type, and whether it should be combined with other treatments.
How PICO Laser Helps with Acne Scars
Pico laser can be used to improve the appearance of certain acne scars
by delivering very short bursts of energy into the skin.
For atrophic scars
(ice pick, boxcar, rolling)
The laser energy creates precise micro‑injuries in the targeted areas, which can stimulate collagen production and skin remodelling.
Over time, this collagen stimulation can help soften the edges of scars, improve skin texture and make depressions look less deep.
Pico laser can also address any associated pigmentation (such as dark marks left after acne), helping the skin tone appear more even while texture improves.
For raised scars
In selected cases, Pico laser may help smooth the surface and reduce associated pigmentation around raised scars.
However, hypertrophic and keloid scars often require a combination approach (for example, injections or other treatments), and Pico laser may play only a supporting role, if it is used at all.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Multiple sessions are usually needed to see noticeable improvement in acne scars, especially when there are several types of scars present.
The degree of improvement varies between individuals and depends on scar type, depth, skin type and how the skin responds.
Our doctors may recommend combining Pico laser with other acne scar treatments (such as subcision, RF microneedling, chemical peels or fillers) to address different scar types more effectively.
How Pico Laser Helps
with Tattoo Removal
Pico laser technology can also be used to lighten or remove certain tattoos. Different settings and wavelengths may be used to target different colours of tattoo ink. Tattoo removal typically requires multiple sessions, often spaced several weeks apart, and complete removal is not always possible.
Your doctor will assess your tattoo’s size, colour, location and age, and discuss what degree of lightening may be realistic, as well as the likely number of sessions involved.
Results vary between individuals and depend on many factors, including skin type, ink characteristics and treatment parameters.
Your PICO Laser Treatment experience at EHA Clinic
Before the procedure
Your skin will be cleansed to remove makeup, sunscreen and surface impurities.
Protective eye shields or goggles will be placed over your eyes.
A topical numbing cream may be applied to help reduce discomfort, depending on the treatment parameters and your tolerance.
During the procedure
The doctor will pass the laser handpiece over the treatment area, making multiple passes as needed.
Most patients describe the sensation as a tingling or light “rubber band snap” feeling on the skin.
Treatment time is usually about 30 minutes for the face, but can be longer or shorter depending on the size of the area and whether multiple conditions are being targeted in one session.
After the procedure
Mild redness or warmth may be present and typically settles within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the settings used and individual skin response.
Our team will apply suitable skincare and sunscreen, and advise you on post‑treatment care before you leave the clinic.
Overall, many patients find Pico laser comfortable and well‑tolerated. If required, numbing cream can be used to further minimise discomfort.
Your PICO Laser Treatment Experience at EHA Clinic
Before the procedure
Your skin will be cleansed to remove makeup, sunscreen and surface impurities.
Protective eye shields or goggles will be placed over your eyes.
A topical numbing cream may be applied to help reduce discomfort, depending on the treatment parameters and your tolerance.
During the procedure
The doctor will pass the laser handpiece over the treatment area, making multiple passes as needed.
Most patients describe the sensation as a tingling or light “rubber band snap” feeling on the skin.
Treatment time is usually about 30 minutes for the face, but can be longer or shorter depending on the size of the area and whether multiple conditions are being targeted in one session.
After the procedure
Mild redness or warmth may be present and typically settles within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the settings used and individual skin response.
Our team will apply suitable skincare and sunscreen, and advise you on post‑treatment care before you leave the clinic.
Overall, many patients find Pico laser comfortable and well‑tolerated. If required, numbing cream can be used to further minimise discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Pico Laser and how does it work?
Dr Elias Tam: Pico Laser is a type of non-ablative / minimal downtime laser treatment used for skin pigmentation, acne scars, skin rejuvenation, etc. The treatment uses very short pulses of energy (“picoseconds”) to break up pigment and stimulate skin repair with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Who can perform Pico Laser treatments at your clinic?
Dr Elias Tam: Pico Laser treatments are performed only by registered medical practitioners who are trained in the safe use of laser devices, under Singapore’s regulatory frameworks (SMC’s Guidelines on Aesthetic Practices for Doctors).
Are the Pico Laser devices used approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA)?
Dr Elias Tam: Yes. We use laser devices that are registered or approved by the HSA, ensuring they meet safety, performance and quality standards required in Singapore.
How many sessions will I need, and what results can I expect?
Dr Elias Tam: The number of sessions depends on individual skin condition, type of pigmentation / scars, skin tone, lifestyle, and how your skin responds. We do not guarantee specific outcomes. During your consultation, the doctor will assess your skin and give a realistic estimate of how many treatments are likely needed, what improvements may be expected, and any limitations.
What are the risks, side-effects, or downtime?
As with most laser treatments, side effects can include redness, swelling, temporary pigment changes (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation), mild discomfort, and in rare cases blistering or scarring. Downtime depends on intensity of treatment, your skin type, aftercare, and how well you follow instructions. These will be fully discussed during your consultation, and you will be asked to give informed consent.
Is Pico Laser safe for all skin types?
Most skin types can benefit, but some skin tones (especially darker or highly pigmented skin) may have higher risk of pigmentary changes. Your doctor will need to assess your skin type, history (e.g. tanning, prior treatments), and if there are any conditions that may increase risk.
What should I do before and after my treatment?
Pre-treatment: Avoid strong sun exposure, stop using certain strong topical agents (e.g. retinoids, acids) as advised; inform us of your medical history, medications, and any previous skin treatments.
Post-treatment: Follow sunscreen use strictly, avoid direct sun, use gentle skin care, avoid picking or scratching, follow doctor’s or clinic’s aftercare instructions.
How is cost determined?
Cost depends on several factors — size / location of area treated, number of sessions needed, laser settings, any concurrent treatments, etc. We will provide a personalised cost estimate during consultation.
Are there any contra-indications (reasons why I might not be suitable)?
Yes. Certain conditions may make you unsuitable or require extra caution, e.g.: active skin infection, history of keloid scarring, very recent sunburn, certain skin diseases, certain medications (photosensitising), pregnancy (depending on treatment), etc. The doctor will review your full medical history during consultation.
Can you show “before & after” photos or guarantee that my results will look like them?
Public advertising or promotional materials are required by regulation NOT to include “before & after” photos so as to avoid misleading impressions. Any example photos may be shown in-clinic during consultation for educational purposes only, with full context (e.g. lighting, patient profile, limitations). We cannot guarantee that your results will exactly match any example.
What regulatory protections do patients have?
All treatments are done under regulatory frameworks (MOH’s Healthcare Services Act / HCSA, HSA device regulation, SMC Guidelines) which require standards for safety, device approval, truthful / non-misleading advertisements, and practitioner competence.
You have the right to informed consent. The clinic must record consultation, treatment plan, medical history, follow-ups.
Meet your EHA Clinic Doctor
Dr. Elias Tam, the Doctor Trainer
Dr. Elias Tam, with over 30 years in medicine, leads EHA Clinic, focusing on advancing technical standards in aesthetic medicine. He holds the position of Clinical Lecturer at University College London. Throughout his many years as an aesthetic doctor, Dr. Tam has held multiple hands-on training sessions and seminars, sharing his vast knowledge and expertise with aspiring doctors in the field.
Under his guidance, EHA Clinic offers a safe and comprehensive range of aesthetic treatments for the face, body, and hair; including clinically established treatments such as hair transplants, non-surgical face-lifting, body sculpting, fillers and other injectable treatments.
Interested in PICO Laser treatment?
If you are concerned about pigmentation, acne scars or dull skin and are wondering if Pico laser may be suitable for you, a consultation with our doctors is the best first step.
During your visit, we will:
Discuss your concerns, goals and medical history
Examine your skin and make a diagnosis of your pigmentation or scarring
Explain your treatment options (including Pico laser and alternatives), expected improvements and limitations
Provide a personalised treatment plan and cost estimate
To arrange a non‑obligatory consultation for Pico laser in Singapore, you can contact us through whatsapp or submit an enquiry through our online form.
Alternatively, reach out to us for a non-obligatory consultation