Treating Melasma: Achieve Clear Skin with Pico Laser

Melasma is a common skin pigmentation disorder characterised by unsightly dark brown patches that appear on the face, upper cheeks, forehead, nose bridge, upper lip, and chin. It typically develops gradually due to an overproduction of melanin, a pigment that provides colour to the skin. Women commonly experience this condition during pregnancy, leading to its colloquial name "pregnancy mask" or "chloasma."

Enter Pico Laser: a modern skin treatment which can specifically target melanin pigmentation to treat melasma. Read our comprehensive guide about melasma and Pico laser below.

What Causes Melasma?

While the exact cause of melasma is not known, a combination of factors can trigger it, such as:

• Prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV rays
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy
• Hormonal replacement therapy or the use of birth control pills
• Oestrogen and progesterone sensitivity
• Certain medications, such as anti-seizure and blood pressure medications, retinoids, and antibiotics
• Thyroid disorders
• Stress

In Singapore, fortunately, there are various effective treatments available to reduce the appearance of melasma and slow its progression. One such treatment is the Pico Laser. An aesthetic doctor may recommend this procedure if topical medications fail to alleviate undesirable skin spots.

What is Pico Laser?

Pico laser treatment utilises short pulses of laser energy to specifically target and break down stubborn pigmentation that causes melasma. Unlike traditional laser treatments, this procedure delivers high energy in picoseconds, which equates to a trillionth of a second.

In addition, the Pico laser treatment ensures precise targeting of the affected area, minimising the risk of damaging surrounding tissue. Typically, doctors perform this procedure in a series of sessions, generally administering three to six treatments every two to four weeks based on the individual's skin condition and concerns.

How Does Pico Laser Treat Melasma?

Pico laser emits high-energy laser pulses in problem areas of the skin. These ultra-short pulses generate a photomechanical effect that effectively penetrates the skin and dissolves excess melanin pigments into smaller fragments. The body’s immune system then naturally eliminates the pigment particles, which reduces the appearance of melasma patches and promotes collagen production.

What Happens after the Procedure?

As with most laser treatments, patients may experience slight redness and swelling following the procedure, which will subside within a few days. In most cases, the full results become noticeable within two to three weeks of the initial treatment. The effects of Pico Laser generally last for at least six months before diminishing, depending on how well the individual maintains their skin and the frequency of scheduled treatments.

What are the Benefits of Pico Laser?

Pico laser treatment offers several benefits for individuals experiencing melasma. These include:

• Non-Invasive: The Pico laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure that involves no surgery or incisions. The laser energy is delivered through the skin, targeting only pigmented cells and leaving surrounding tissue unharmed.
• Short Treatment Time: This procedure is quick and typically takes around 15-30 minutes to complete. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately following the procedure.
• Low Risk of Scarring: Pico laser treatment has a lower risk of skin injury, burning, or scarring than traditional laser therapy.
• Minimal Downtime: Patients typically experience mild side effects, such as slight redness or swelling, following the procedure, but these usually resolve within a few days.
• Effective and Individualised: Pico laser treatment is an effective treatment option for melasma, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their skin's appearance. This treatment can also be tailored to each patient's skin type and condition.

The Importance of Consultation & Personalised Treatment

When it comes to treating melasma, it is important to recognise that every individual’s skin is different. A consultation with an experienced aesthetic doctor can help in determining a suitable course of treatment for your specific needs.

During the consultation, the doctor will assess the patient’s skin type and any underlying condition that could pose a risk or affect the efficacy of the treatment. They will also discuss their medical history and lifestyle factors that may contribute to the development of melasma. Finally, the doctor will provide a helpful explanation of the Pico laser procedure, including its benefits, potential risks, as well as results and maintenance.