Pigmentation

Pigmentation Treatment Singapore

At TruGlow Medical Aesthetics, we recognise that pigmentation concerns can affect both appearance and confidence. Conditions such as dark spots, uneven tone, and melasma can develop due to various factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, acne, or natural ageing.

Modern aesthetic medicine focuses on understanding these underlying causes to guide appropriate treatment. At TruGlow, our clinical team adopts a careful, individualised approach — combining medical-grade skincare, evidence-based technologies, and professional expertise to help manage pigmentation concerns safely in Singapore.

Our treatment goal is to provide clinically guided care that supports healthier, more balanced-looking skin over time.

What Causes Skin Pigmentation

Pigmentation can result from a mix of internal and external factors, including:

  • Genetics: Some individuals naturally develop freckles, birthmarks, or pigment variations.
  • Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, contraceptives, or thyroid conditions can trigger melasma or uneven dark patches.
  • Sun exposure: Prolonged UV exposure stimulates excess melanin, causing sunspots or age spots over time.
  • Inflammation or injury: Cuts, burns, or acne breakouts may heal with lingering dark marks (post-inflammatory pigmentation).
  • Medications and medical conditions: Certain drugs, adrenal or metabolic disorders, and nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low vitamin B12) can influence skin tone.
  • Fungal infections: Conditions like tinea versicolor can temporarily alter skin colour in affected areas.

Types of Skin Pigmentation

Melasma: Brown or gray-brown patches on the face, typically found on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Occurs after skin inflammation or injury, like after acne infection, burns, or cuts, leading to darkened skin areas

Solar Lentigines (age spots or sun spots): Small, dark spots often found on sun-exposed skin.

Freckles: Small, flat, and concentrated areas of increased pigmentation, which commonly appear in individuals with fair skin.

Flat, light brown Cafe-au-Lait spots can be present at birth or appear shortly afterward, varying in size and colour.

Including spider veins, cherry angiomas, and port-wine stains.

Benign growths that may appear brown or black with age.

Blue-grey pigmentation typically seen on the cheeks of Asian women.

Discover Treatments for Pigmentation at TruGlow Medical Aesthetics

Topical Skin-Lightening Agents

Our clinical team can prescribe topical products containing ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, vitamin C, or niacinamide. These agents work to gradually fade pigmentation and help support a clearer, more even-looking complexion over time.

Prescription Retinoids

Prescription-strength retinoids promote skin cell turnover and may help reduce hyperpigmentation. Our medical team may recommend these as part of your personalised skin pigmentation treatment plan.

Chemical Peels

Our clinical team may also recommend chemical peels formulated with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or other medical-grade ingredients. These peels help refine texture, reduce hyperpigmentation, and support a smoother, more even appearance. They are often used alongside laser pigmentation treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan.

Our personalised approach allows the clinical team to recommend treatments suited to your specific pigmentation concerns.

Laser Treatment for Pigmentation Removal in Singapore

Our Signature 4S Angel Whitening Laser is designed to address a wide range of skin pigmentation issues. Equipped with various wavelengths and settings, this laser offers tailored treatment for your pigmentation concerns.

Here’s how it works:

  • Using selective photothermolysis, the laser delivers specific wavelengths of light to precisely target and break down pigmented areas in the skin.
  • Excess melanin (pigment) in these areas absorbs the laser’s energy, causing the pigment to break down into smaller particles.
  • Over time, your body’s natural processes will eliminate these fragmented pigments, leading to a more even skin tone.

Fotona StarWalker laser treatments for pigmentation tend to have minimal downtime. While you may experience some temporary redness and mild peeling, you can usually resume your regular activities shortly after treatment. 

The number of treatment sessions varies depending on individual skin condition and pigmentation depth. Your clinical team will recommend an appropriate treatment schedule based on your skin’s response and overall goals.

Forever Young BBL Laser:

Forever Young BBL is a BroadBand Light (BBL) treatment that uses precise wavelengths of light to address pigmentation, redness, and visible signs of ageing. This non-invasive technology aims to gently stimulate the skin’s natural regenerative processes, promoting a clearer and more youthful appearance over time.

Here’s how it works:

  • Forever Young BBL delivers light energy to the skin at controlled intensities and wavelengths to target specific chromophores:
    • 515 nm filter – targets melanin, addressing pigmentation concerns such as freckles, sunspots, and uneven tone.
    • 560 nm filter – targets hemoglobin, helping reduce redness, vascular lesions, and flushing.
  • As the light energy converts to heat, it stimulates collagen and elastin production while encouraging cellular renewal. 

Our Forever Young BBLtreatment is non-invasive, with plans adjusted based on individual skin condition and response.

Sun damage laser treatment Singapore

Pigmentation Treatment Aftercare

Proper aftercare helps support skin recovery and maintain treatment comfort. After a pigmentation procedure, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and avoiding direct exposure when possible.

Cleanse gently with mild, non-irritating products and keep the skin well-hydrated using a fragrance-free moisturiser. Avoid makeup until the skin has settled to prevent irritation.

Minimise heat and friction during recovery — skip hot showers, saunas, strenuous workouts, and swimming until advised by your practitioner. If mild redness or swelling occurs, apply a cool compress for relief, and avoid picking at scabs or dry areas.

Continue following your clinical team’s aftercare instructions, stay hydrated, and attend follow-up appointments so your progress can be safely monitored.

How does Profhilo Singapore work?

Pigmentation Prevention Tips

Preventing pigmentation begins with good daily habits. Consistent use of sunscreen remains one of the most important steps — choose a broad-spectrum product with SPF 30 or higher, reapply as needed, and limit direct sun exposure during peak hours. Wearing protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses can also help shield the skin.

Adopt gentle skincare practices. Use non-irritating products, avoid scratching or picking at blemishes, and keep to a simple routine of cleansing and moisturising. Products containing antioxidants like vitamin C may help protect the skin from environmental stressors.

Lifestyle choices also support skin health. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, and manage stress levels where possible. Avoid tanning beds or artificial UV exposure, which may aggravate pigmentation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Pigmentation Treatment

Hyperpigmentation is a broad term for darkened areas caused by excess melanin. Melasma is a specific condition, appearing as brown or grey-brown patches often linked to hormones. A consultation ensures accurate diagnosis and guides the right pigmentation treatment in Singapore.
Many pigmentation types may be lightened or improved with topical agents, peels, or laser pigmentation removal in Singapore. Results depend on severity, with maintenance and sun protection needed to preserve outcomes.

Side effects are usually mild, such as redness, peeling, or temporary darkening. With laser for pigmentation, temporary post-inflammatory pigmentation may occur, especially in darker skin types.

Pigmentation removal can be performed on various skin types, but the approach and settings are adjusted according to each individual’s condition and skin sensitivity. Your medical team will assess suitability and recommend options that prioritise safety and align with your skin’s needs.
Certain over-the-counter products containing ingredients such as vitamin C or other antioxidants may help support overall skin tone. However, pigmentation can have many causes, so it’s best to seek professional advice for an accurate assessment and appropriate management plan.
Improvements in pigmentation vary between individuals. Laser dark spot removal in Singapore may help address deeper pigmentation concerns, but the number of sessions and visible changes depend on each person’s skin type and response to treatment.
Most pigmentation treatments are generally well-tolerated for most individuals. Some may experience a mild snapping or warm sensation during laser procedures. Your clinical team may also apply topical numbing products or adjust treatment settings to help improve comfort.

Pigmentation may recur due to factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, or acne. Consistent sun protection and a proper skincare routine can help support longer-lasting results.

Yes. Melasma treatment in Singapore often requires gentler solutions such as topical agents or low-energy skin discolouration laser treatment, while freckles or sunspots can be treated more aggressively with peels or lasers.

Pigmentation may darken briefly post-treatment, before gradually lightening as the skin renews itself. The number of sessions required and the degree of improvement can vary depending on your skin type and pigmentation depth.
Laser treatments in Singapore offer a targeted approach compared to topical creams or peels, and may be considered for deeper or more persistent pigmentation concerns based on individual assessment.. It can reach deeper layers of the skin where pigmentation forms, making it a more suitable option for stubborn or deeper pigment concerns. The choice between laser for pigmentation and other methods depends on individual skin type, condition, and response to treatment.
Diagnosis involves a medical history, visual examination, and sometimes dermatoscopic imaging to identify whether the condition is melasma, freckles, or PIH before starting the right treatment.

Our Medical Team

Dr Carmen Lee

Resident Doctor

MB BCh BAO (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland)

Dr Carmen Lee has a special interest in non-surgical anti-ageing and body contouring. Trained internationally in advanced injectables, thread lifting, and lasers, she brings both precision and compassion to her patients. Fluent in English, Mandarin, Malay, and Cantonese, she ensures consultations are clear and personalised.

Dr Chew Kuok Ming​

Resident Doctor

MBBS (National University of Singapore), Diploma in Family Medicine, Diploma in Family Practice Dermatology (Singapore)

With over 20 years of experience, Dr Chew Kuok Ming blends medical expertise with a holistic approach to aesthetics. He is trained in Botox, fillers, IPL, and laser therapies, and is known for his patient-centred approach and commitment to natural-looking outcomes.

Dr. Stella Tay

Resident Doctor

MBBS (University of Malaya), Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine (National University of Singapore)

Dr Stella Tay is recognised for her skill in non-surgical facial contouring and rejuvenation. Certified by ADEG and AAAM, she specialises in injectables and skin-tightening procedures. Her patient-first approach and focus on natural results have earned her the trust of many professionals and public figures.

Dr. Stella Tay

Resident Doctor

Dr. Stella Tay is a senior aesthetic physician known for her precision, clinical expertise, and commitment to natural- looking results. With a strong background in both general and aesthetic medicine, she brings a balanced, safety- focused approach to every treatment.

She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Malaya and a Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine from the National University of Singapore. Her early clinical work in emergency medicine, dermatology, and minor surgical procedures provides a strong foundation for delivering safe and effective aesthetic treatments.

Dr. Stella specializes in non-surgical facial contouring and rejuvenation, including advanced injectable techniques and skin-tightening procedures. Her client-focused approach and attention to detail have earned the trust of working professionals, public figures, and individuals who value subtle yet impactful aesthetic improvements.

She is certified by the Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG) and the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM). Dr. Stella actively participates in international training and advanced courses to stay current with the latest aesthetic innovations.

At the clinic, Dr. Stella is known not only for her clinical skill but also for taking the time to understand each client’s goals, designing treatment plans that are both medically sound and aesthetically refined.

  • Professional Achievements
    • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS, UM, Malaysia)
    • Post Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (GDFM, NUS)
    • American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM)
    • Singapore COC-certified Aesthetic Physician by Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG)
    • Mini Visiting Fellowship (Hands-On) Korean Advanced Non-Surgical Face Lifting (IFAAS)
    • Advanced Course: Nose Filler, Ellansé, Restylane Filler, Sculptra (Singapore)
  • Memberships
    • Membership of Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM, UK)
    • Membership of Singapore Medical Association (SMA)
    • Membership of Singapore Aesthetic Medicine (SAM)
Dr. Stella Tay is a senior aesthetic physician known for her precision, clinical expertise, and commitment to natural- looking results. With a strong background in both general and aesthetic medicine, she brings a balanced, safety- focused approach to every treatment. She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Malaya and a Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine from the National University of Singapore. Her early clinical work in emergency medicine, dermatology, and minor surgical procedures provides a strong foundation for delivering safe and effective aesthetic treatments. Dr. Stella specializes in non-surgical facial contouring and rejuvenation, including advanced injectable techniques and skin-tightening procedures. Her client-focused approach and attention to detail have earned the trust of working professionals, public figures, and individuals who value subtle yet impactful aesthetic improvements. She is certified by the Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG) and the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM). Dr. Stella actively participates in international training and advanced courses to stay current with the latest aesthetic innovations. At the clinic, Dr. Stella is known not only for her clinical skill but also for taking the time to understand each client’s goals, designing treatment plans that are both medically sound and aesthetically refined.
  • Professional Achievements
    • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS, UM, Malaysia)
    • Post Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (GDFM, NUS)
    • American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM)
    • Singapore COC-certified Aesthetic Physician by Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG)
    • Mini Visiting Fellowship (Hands-On) Korean Advanced Non-Surgical Face Lifting (IFAAS)
    • Advanced Course: Nose Filler, Ellansé, Restylane Filler, Sculptra (Singapore)
  • Memberships
    • Membership of Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM, UK)
    • Membership of Singapore Medical Association (SMA)
    • Membership of Singapore Aesthetic Medicine (SAM)