Did you know that facial pigmentation spots and patches are one of the biggest skin concerns of Singapore women? Living in a tropical country makes you vulnerable to skin pigmentation.
Hori’s Nevus Treatment
Facial pigmentation spots and patches are one of the biggest skin concerns of Singapore women. Some pigmentations are difficult to manage while others are difficult to diagnose. However, Ota Nevus and Hori’s Macule are the exception and the easiest to manage. They only respond to laser treatment and almost always respond with near complete resolution.
Dr. Wong Soon Tee
MBBS (Singapore) | MRCP (UK) | FAMS (Singapore) |
Why Choose Us
Friendly & Experienced Specialist
Dr Wong connects well with his patients & he is a specialist with over 30 years of experience.
Thoughtful & Insightful Consultation
Our specialist listens & explains well to his patients on their skin issues and their queries.
Safe & Effective Treatment
We offer carefully curated FDA & HSA-approved treatments that give effective results.
Care and Professionalism Refined by
Over 30 years of Dermatology Experience
- MBBS, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore
- MRCP. Member of Royal College of Physicians, United Kingdom
- FAMS, Fellow of Academy of Medicine, Singapore
- Adjunct Assistant Professor, National University of Singapore
- Visiting Consultant, University Dermatology Division, National University Hospital
- Visiting Consultant, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Centre, National University Hospital
Ota Nevus and Hori’s macule
Nevus of Ota
Nevus of Ota is a birthmark typically occurring on one side of the face. Frequently, it affects the skin around the eyes, forehead, nose, and cheeks. Besides skin, it may also involve parts of the eye or mouth.
It usually appears as blue-grey hyperpigmentation because there are many pigment cells found deep within the dermis of the skin. 40-50% of all cases of Nevus of Ota are present at birth, while the rest typically develop during adolescence.
Laser treatments are the most effective in treating Nevus of Ota. These include QS Nd:YAG, ruby laser, and alexandrite laser and they must be repeated many times (at least 5-6 times). Alternatively, people may opt to cover the hyperpigmentation with camouflaging creams, foundation, or concealer.
Aside from their physical appearance, one has to be aware of the risk of glaucoma and malignant melanoma.
Hori’s Macule / Nevus
Hori’s macule is also known as acquired Nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM) and is a fairly common facial pigmentation that is often under-diagnosed or mis-diagnosed as freckles or melasma. Not uncommonly, it may coexist with melasma.
Often occurring on both sides of the cheek, the bean-sized pigmentation can appear from light brown, dark brown to dark blue in color. The nose, eyelids, forehead are sometimes affected as well. However, it does not affect the eyes or the mouth.
Contrary to the Nevus of Ota, Hori’s Nevus appears in the third to fifth decades of life and is therefore an acquired condition, mostly occurring in Asian women.
Hori’s Nevus only responds to laser treatments with the Q-switched ruby laser, Q-switched alexandrite laser or Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers. Multiple sessions (at least 4 to 6 ) are usually necessary.
Temporary darkening of the skin (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation) may occur after the first treatment. However, this usually settles from second treatment onwards and the improvement and lightening continues steadily with each session of laser treatment til it fades eventually.
Types
Hori’s nevus can be classified into different types based on the pattern and location of pigmentation:
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Bilateral type
The most common form, where pigmented patches appear on both sides of the face in similar areas. The patches are usually symmetrical but may vary in intensity between sides.
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Unilateral type
Less common variation where pigmentation appears predominantly on one side of the face. This asymmetrical pattern may be confused with other pigmentary conditions.
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Mixed type
A combination pattern where some areas show bilateral distribution whilst others appear more prominently on one side. This type combines features of both bilateral and unilateral presentations.
Restore Your Skin
If you are looking for a way to get rid of the pigmentation on your face, a consultation with an expert can get you started on the path to a brighter and unblemished skin. Make an appointment now to see Dr. Wong.
Hori’s Nevus Treatment Options
Laser and light-based treatments can help reduce the appearance of Hori’s nevus pigmentation:
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Q-switched laser therapy
Targeted laser energy breaks down deeper pigment particles in the skin. Multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart achieve gradual lightening of affected areas.
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Picosecond laser treatment
Ultra-short laser pulses target pigmentation with greater precision. This treatment may require fewer sessions than traditional lasers for stubborn pigmentation.
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IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
Broad-spectrum light targets pigmented areas and encourages the skin’s natural healing process. This treatment is often combined with other therapies.
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Chemical peels
Controlled application of chemical solutions to remove upper layers of pigmented skin. Deeper peels may be recommended, though multiple treatments are usually necessary.
Managing Skin After Hori's Nevus Treatment
Whilst Hori’s nevus cannot be completely prevented due to its genetic and hormonal factors, consistent sun protection with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher can help prevent worsening of existing pigmentation and reduce the risk of developing additional patches. Regular use of gentle skincare products and avoiding harsh treatments or excessive rubbing of affected areas can help maintain skin health. Early consultation with a dermatologist when pigmentation changes are first noticed allows for timely diagnosis and treatment planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to see results from laser treatment?
Initial improvements may be visible after 2-3 sessions, but significant lightening typically occurs over 6-12 months of treatment. Complete clearance may take longer and isn’t always achievable in all cases.
Can Hori's nevus come back after successful treatment?
Whilst treated areas often remain improved, new patches can develop in untreated areas due to the underlying causes. Some patients may experience gradual return of pigmentation in previously treated areas over several years.
Is treatment painful?
Most laser treatments cause mild to moderate discomfort, often described as rubber band snaps against the skin.
Our Clinic Location
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Camden Medical Centre
#10-01, 1 Orchard Boulevard,
Singapore 248649 - +65 6694 1121
- +65 9724 4911(WhatsApp)
- [email protected]
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Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri: 9am - 5pm
Thurs & Sat: 9am - 12.30pm
Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
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+65 6694 1121
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For Faster Response, Call Us!
+65 6694 1121
Chat with our friendly clinic staff through Whatsapp!
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