Quick answer. In Singapore, Pico laser (picosecond laser) typically costs around S$250–S$550 per session, with promotional or trial sessions sometimes under S$150 and large tattoo removal up to roughly S$800 per session. Pico laser uses ultra-fast picosecond pulses to shatter pigment and is commonly used for pigmentation, freckles, sunspots, dull skin, acne scars and tattoo removal. Most concerns need a course of about 4–8 sessions spaced a few weeks apart, and prices vary by device, indication, area size, clinic and doctor.
Pico laser is one of the most popular skin treatments in Singapore for pigmentation, dull skin and acne scarring, but pricing and results can be confusing because they vary so much between clinics. This guide explains what a Pico (picosecond) laser actually does, how it differs from older Q-switched lasers, what it realistically treats, typical market price ranges per session, and what to expect in terms of sessions, downtime and risks.
At a glance
| Indication | Typical price per session (SGD) | Sessions often needed |
|---|---|---|
| Pigmentation / freckles / sunspots | S$250–S$450 | 4–6 |
| Melasma (managed conservatively) | S$300–S$500 | 4–6+, with maintenance |
| Skin rejuvenation / brightening | S$250–S$400 | Course or monthly maintenance |
| Acne scars / texture | S$350–S$550 | 5–8 |
| Tattoo removal | S$150–S$800 (by size) | 6–10+ |
| Consultation fee (separate) | S$80–S$200 | Per visit |
What a Pico laser is and how it works (vs Q-switched)
“Pico laser” is shorthand for a picosecond laser — a device that fires light in pulses measured in picoseconds (trillionths of a second), far shorter than the nanosecond pulses of older Q-switched lasers. Common branded systems in Singapore include PicoSure, PicoWay and Discovery Pico, among others.
The key difference is mechanism. Q-switched (nanosecond) lasers rely more on a photothermal (heat) effect to break up pigment, while picosecond lasers rely more on a photoacoustic effect — rapid pressure waves that mechanically shatter pigment into finer particles with less heat. In principle, this allows effective pigment clearance with less thermal damage to surrounding skin, which may reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and can be relevant for darker skin tones. Some studies show picosecond lasers clear certain pigment faster and in fewer sessions, though for melasma the evidence is mixed and Q-switched Nd:YAG remains highly ranked in some analyses.
Note that not every device marketed as “pico” is a true picosecond laser; some are nanosecond systems labelled for marketing. Ask the clinic which specific device they use.
What Pico laser treats
Pico laser is used for a range of pigmentary and skin-quality concerns, including:
- Pigmentation, freckles and sunspots (solar lentigines) — among the most common and responsive indications.
- Melasma — can be treated, but it is notoriously difficult, often partial in response, and prone to recurrence (see the risks section).
- Dull skin and overall skin rejuvenation / brightening — sometimes done as lighter “toning” sessions for radiance and tone.
- Acne scars and skin texture — typically using a fractionated/focused mode to stimulate remodelling; this usually needs more sessions.
- Tattoo removal — picosecond pulses can fragment ink, including some colours that respond poorly to older lasers.
Results and suitability depend heavily on the specific diagnosis, skin type and the settings used, which is why an in-person assessment matters.
Pico laser cost in Singapore
Across Singapore clinics, a single Pico laser session typically falls in the range of S$250–S$550, with a broader overall band of roughly S$150–S$800 per session depending on the concern and area. Promotional or trial sessions are sometimes advertised under S$150 (occasionally under S$100), but very low promotional pricing may reflect smaller areas, lighter settings or entry offers rather than a full therapeutic treatment.
Typical drivers of price include:
- Indication and area size — small spot treatment versus full face, or large tattoos.
- Device/brand — different picosecond platforms and whether the system is a true picosecond laser.
- Number of sessions / packages — many clinics sell multi-session packages (often 5 sessions) at a lower per-session rate.
- Clinic, doctor experience and medical oversight.
Consultation fees are often charged separately, commonly around S$80–S$200. The figures here are typical market ranges, not quotes — always get a personalised assessment.
What to expect: sessions, downtime and results
Sessions: Most pigmentation and melasma courses run about 4–6 sessions, acne scars and texture often 5–8 sessions, and tattoo removal frequently 6–10+ sessions, usually spaced around 3–5 weeks apart. Skin brightening is sometimes done as periodic maintenance.
Downtime: Pico is generally a low-downtime treatment. Mild redness and slight warmth are common and often settle within hours; many people return to normal activities the same day. More aggressive settings (for example for acne scars or stubborn pigment) can cause more redness, pinpoint bleeding or temporary crusting.
Results: Improvement is usually gradual and cumulative across a course rather than instant, and outcomes vary by individual, diagnosis and skin type. Diligent sun protection between and after sessions is important to protect results and reduce the chance of pigment returning.
Risks and who should be cautious (especially melasma)
Pico laser is generally well tolerated, but it is a medical procedure with real risks. Possible side effects include redness, swelling, temporary darkening or crusting, and — particularly with overly aggressive settings or unsuitable candidates — post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), rebound pigmentation, burns or uneven results. Risk is higher in darker skin types and when protocols are not properly tailored.
Melasma deserves special caution. It is a chronic, hormonally and UV-influenced condition that is difficult to treat: laser can lighten it, but melasma frequently recurs and can even worsen if treated too aggressively. It is usually managed as a long-term condition combining laser (often conservative settings), topical treatments and strict sun protection, rather than a one-off “cure”.
Caution or medical clearance is also warranted if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active skin infections or inflammation in the area, photosensitivity or are on photosensitising medication, a recent tan, or a history of keloids or PIH. Always be assessed by an accredited doctor first.
How to choose a provider
Because outcomes depend so much on diagnosis and settings, choose carefully:
- See an accredited doctor for a proper diagnosis (for example, distinguishing melasma from other pigmentation, which are treated very differently).
- Ask which exact device is used and whether it is a true picosecond laser.
- Be wary of unusually cheap promotions and of any clinic promising guaranteed or permanent results in one session.
- Discuss the full plan and total cost — number of sessions, intervals and package versus per-session pricing — not just the headline price.
- Confirm aftercare and review, including sun protection guidance and what to do if PIH or irritation occurs.
Related guides
- Best Aesthetic Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- aesthetic clinics directory
- HIFU in Singapore: cost & results
- Botox in Singapore: cost & what to expect
- Acne scar treatment in Singapore
Sources
- Dr Plus Aesthetics Clinic — Pico Laser Price in Singapore (2025 pricing)
- Astria — Pico Laser Singapore Price: What Affects Treatment Cost
- IDS Clinic — Pico Laser Cost in Singapore: What You Need to Know
- Frontiers in Medicine — Picosecond Nd:YAG vs alexandrite vs hydroquinone for melasma (RCT)
- Sozo Clinic — Pico Laser Singapore: What Is It, How Does It Work, Cost and Process
Related conditions & guides
Related conditions and guides you may find useful:
- Chemical Peels in Singapore
- Melasma Treatment in Singapore
- Laser Tattoo Removal in Singapore
- Using MediSave for Medical Treatment in Singapore
- Integrated Shield Plans (IP) Explained
Part of our Aesthetic treatments guides · Browse all health topics