Laser Clinic · Central Clinic, Hamdan Street
Pico Laser for Pigmentation in Abu Dhabi
Dark patches, sun damage and melasma are treated by breaking pigment apart rather than heating the skin around it. Assessment first with our Specialist Dermatologist, because pigmentation has more than one cause.
Course of 3 — AED 250
What it treats
Why pigmentation needs assessing first
Not every brown patch is the same thing. Sun damage, melasma and post-acne marks look similar in the mirror and behave completely differently under a laser. Melasma in particular can worsen if it is treated with too much heat, which is why it is one of the few skin concerns where the wrong treatment makes things worse rather than simply not working.
That is what the consultation is for. Our Specialist Dermatologist examines the pigment, establishes what is driving it, and decides whether laser is the right answer at all — sometimes the answer is a topical plan first, or sun protection and time.
Pigmentation returns without sun protection. Any clinic that tells you otherwise is selling you a repeat course. Daily SPF is part of the treatment, not an afterthought.
How the laser works
Very short pulses
The energy is delivered in extremely brief bursts. Pigment absorbs it and shatters into particles small enough for the body to clear, while the surrounding skin has no time to heat up.
Less heat than older lasers
Because it works by shock rather than by heating, there is less risk of the inflammation that can darken pigmentation further — which matters a great deal on darker skin tones.
A course, not one visit
Pigment clears gradually as the body removes the fragments. Most plans run over several sessions spaced a few weeks apart, and your dermatologist sets the interval.
Little downtime
Skin is usually pink for a short time afterwards. Darker patches may look temporarily deeper before they fade — that is expected, and your dermatologist explains what to watch for.
Your doctor
Dr. Mohannad Hamid
Specialist Dermatologist
Medical dermatology and aesthetic treatments at Central Clinic. Pigmentation is assessed by the dermatologist before any laser is used. Licensed by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
Common questions
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what the pigment is and how deep it sits. Sun spots often respond faster than melasma. Your dermatologist gives you a realistic number after examining the skin rather than before.
Is it safe on darker skin?
Darker skin needs more careful settings, and that is exactly why the assessment comes first. The very short pulse duration means less heat, which is the main risk factor for pigmentation worsening after treatment.
Does it hurt?
Most people describe light flicks against the skin, over in a few minutes for a small area. It is generally more comfortable than laser hair removal.
Will the pigmentation come back?
It can, particularly melasma, and particularly without daily sun protection. This is worth knowing before you start rather than after. Your dermatologist will tell you what maintenance your skin is likely to need.
What does it cost?
A single session is AED 100. A course of 3 is AED 250. Prices exclude 5% VAT, and Tabby and Tamara instalments are available.
Should I stop any skincare beforehand?
Bring a list of what you use, including any prescription creams. Retinoids and acid exfoliants are usually paused for a few days either side, and your dermatologist will confirm at the assessment.
Not sure which treatment you need? See all five platforms in our laser clinic, or start with a skin consultation. For acne scars and texture rather than pigment, see microneedling.
Book your assessment
Central Clinic, EMI Tower, Level 2, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street, next to Marks & Spencer. Open seven days, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Prices exclude 5% VAT. Pay in 4 interest-free instalments with Tabby or Tamara.