Considering PICO laser treatment in Singapore? Before committing to any aesthetic procedure, it’s essential to understand whether it’s the right solution for your specific skin concerns.
At Dr. Shane’s Aesthetic Clinic, we believe in empowering patients with knowledge before treatment. While PICO laser is popular across Singapore, not every trending treatment suits everyone’s needs. Let’s explore what you should know about PICO laser and why a personalised skin health consultation is crucial.
What is PICO laser and how does it work?
The name “PICO” refers to picosecond—one trillionth of a second. This advanced laser delivers ultra-short pulses of energy to the skin, creating a photoacoustic effect rather than the photothermal action of traditional lasers.
When the laser delivers these ultra-short pulses, it creates a pressure wave that shatters pigment particles into tiny fragments without generating excessive heat. These smaller particles are then more easily eliminated by the body’s natural processes.
The Three Types of PICO Laser Available in Singapore
There are many different brands of pico-second lasers in Singapore, including but not limited to: Picosure, Picoway, Picoplus, Picolo, Fotona, Discovery Pico, etc.
Each system has unique strengths for specific concerns. However, the particular technology matters less than the practitioner’s expertise in using it appropriately for your skin type and condition. If you’re set on getting PICO laser treatment, check with your practitioner if they have a range of PICO lasers for your varying needs.
Why is PICO laser so popular in Singapore?
PICO laser has gained popularity in Singapore for several reasons:
- Singapore’s humid climate and intense UV exposure make pigmentation issues common
- Marketed advantages include minimal downtime and suitability for various skin types
- Social media and cheap marketed prices
However, popularity doesn’t necessarily mean it’s optimal for everyone’s skin concerns. Marketing campaigns have contributed significantly to its recognition, sometimes overshadowing the importance of personalised assessment.
What skin concerns can PICO laser treat?
PICO laser is marketed for addressing numerous skin issues:
- Pigmentation (melasma, freckles, age spots)
- Tattoo removal
- Acne scars and certain types of scarring
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin tone
- Fine lines and wrinkles
Results vary considerably based on individual skin conditions and practitioner expertise. Some concerns respond better to alternative treatments, highlighting the importance of comprehensive skin assessment.
Is PICO laser safe for all skin types?
PICO laser is often marketed as suitable for all skin types, including darker tones that typically face higher risks with traditional lasers. For darker skin tones, common in Singapore:
- Lower heat production reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk
- Photoacoustic effect targets pigment without excessive thermal damage
However, critical considerations remain:
- Darker skin requires specialised treatment protocols
- Practitioner experience with diverse skin types is crucial
- Pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment care differ based on skin type
Safety ultimately depends on proper assessment, appropriate settings, and provider expertise.
Who is most suitable for PICO laser treatment?
- Those with pigmentation concerns or seeking tattoo removal
- Patients with mild to moderate textural concerns
- People who can commit to the full treatment course
- Have realistic expectations
- Individuals with certain medical conditions
- Those taking photosensitising medications
How does PICO laser compare to traditional laser treatments?
Traditional Lasers
- Use heat (photothermal effect)
- Often more uncomfortable
- Typically longer downtime
- Effective but may affect surrounding tissue
PICO Lasers
- Use pressure waves (photoacoustic effect)
- Generally less painful
- Usually shorter recovery periods
- Can target smaller particles with greater precision
A consultation with Dr Shane allows you to identify the most effective combination of treatment type for your skin profile—so you avoid wasting time and money on trial-and-error treatments that may not work.
What should you expect during a PICO laser session?
How many PICO laser sessions are needed for results?
This varies depending on your skin condition and treatment goals:
- Pigmentation: 1-5+ sessions
- Tattoo removal: 4-20+ sessions depending on type and colors
- Skin rejuvenation: 3-6 sessions
Sessions are usually spaced 2-6 weeks apart. The actual number needed can only be determined through professional assessment, considering your skin type, condition severity, and response to initial treatments.
Does PICO laser hurt, and what is the downtime?
Most patients describe PICO laser as comfortable with minimal discomfort, similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Topical anaesthesia is available but not always necessary.
Downtime is minimal:
- Hours 0-24: Mild redness, possible slight swelling
- Days 1-3: Any minor side effects typically resolve
- Most patients return to normal activities immediately
Your specific recovery depends on treatment intensity, the condition being treated, and your skin’s sensitivity.
Side effects and aftercare of PICO Laser Treatment
What are the side effects of PICO laser treatment?
While generally safe, potential reactions include:
- Common: Temporary redness and mild swelling, slight skin sensitivity, temporary darkening of pigmented areas before fading
- Less Common: Pinpoint bleeding, temporary hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, mild bruising
- Rare: Blistering, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, scarring
Risk increases without proper assessment and when treatment parameters aren’t adjusted for your specific skin type and condition.
What aftercare steps should you follow post-treatment?
Proper aftercare significantly impacts results:
Aftercare tips includes:
- Avoiding sun exposure for at least a week
- Using gentle, hydrating skincare
- Wearing SPF daily
- Avoiding exfoliation or harsh products for several days
A reputable clinic provides detailed, personalised aftercare instructions.
How much does PICO laser cost in Singapore?
PICO laser costs in Singapore vary:
- Single session: S$100 – S$350
- Package deals: Often provide 10-20% savings
Factors affecting cost include treatment area size, condition being treated, clinic location, practitioner expertise, and specific technology used.
While price matters, consider that practitioner expertise significantly impacts results and proper assessment prevents unnecessary treatments. At Dr. Shane’s clinic, we determine if what treatment is truly right for your concerns before making any recommendations.
Other things to note about this treatment
Are there any alternatives to PICO laser in Singapore?
Several alternatives may be more appropriate depending on your specific concerns:
For Pigmentation:
- Q-switched lasers
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
- Chemical peels
- Medical-grade topical treatments
For Skin Rejuvenation:
- Fractional lasers
- Radiofrequency treatments
- Microneedling with RF
- Collagen stimulator injections (CaHA, PDLLA, PLLA)
The ideal approach often involves combination therapy rather than relying on a single treatment modality.
Can PICO laser remove tattoos and pigmentation completely?
Complete clearance isn’t guaranteed:
Tattoos:
- 70-90% clearance for professional tattoos
- 80-95% for amateur tattoos
- Results vary by color (black/blue respond better)
Pigmentation:
- Up to complete clearance for superficial pigmentation
- Significant improvement but rarely complete removal for deep or hormonal-related pigmentary issues such as melasma
Setting realistic expectations is crucial—marketing often highlights best-case scenarios rather than typical results.
Choosing the Right Clinic for You
Don’t just choose based on price or popularity. Consider these factors:
- Practitioner qualifications and training
- Thorough assessment process before treatment recommendations
- Technology specifications
- Clinical approach (focus on skin health vs. promoting specific treatments)
- Treatment philosophy
- A willingness to recommend alternatives if PICO isn’t the best fit
At Dr. Shane’s clinic, we emphasise a thorough skin health consultation before any recommendation, ensuring you receive appropriate care for your specific concerns.
Why choose Dr Shane for PICO Laser Treatment in Singapore?
A comprehensive assessment is the only way to determine if you’re an ideal candidate. If you’re not suitable for PICO laser, proceeding without the right evaluation could do more harm than good — not only risking your results but also wasting your money and exposing you to potential side effects. A proper consultation is essential before deciding on any treatment.
At Dr Shane’s clinic, we believe remarkable results begin with three fundamentals: medical precision, honest advice, and customised care.
While many clinics focus on selling treatments, we prioritise:
- In-depth 1-1 skin health consultations (at least 30 mins)
- HSA/FDA-compliant protocols using approved devices with documented safety profiles
- Personalised energy settings adjusted for your unique skin thickness and concerns
What makes our approach different?
✔ Doctor-Led Consultations
Every treatment plan begins with a medical evaluation of your skin’s needs – not a sales conversation.
✔ Safety-First Philosophy
We use only HSA-approved devices and disclose all potential risks transparently.
✔ No Pressure, Just Professional Advice
You’ll leave your consultation either:
- Confident Ultherapy is right for you, or
- Aware of better alternatives for your goals
✔ Natural-Looking Results
Our treatment plans prioritise gradual, authentic improvement over dramatic but short-lived changes.
✔ Continued Aftercare
Post-treatment guidance to help maintain and optimise your results
The First Step is Always a Conversation
Many patients discover during consultation that their skin concerns actually require:
→ A different treatment approach
→ Combination therapies
→ Or simply more time before considering procedures
Book a skin health assessment to get professional insights before deciding on any treatment.
Let us help you find what’s right for your skin—not just what’s trending.
Secure your consultation slot with Dr Shane today
Great skin starts with the right diagnosis.