Q Switched Pigment Laser

What makes Q-Switched Laser (QSL) treatments so effective?

Q-Switched Laser (QSL) treatments use ultra-fast laser pulses to break down pigmentation, stimulate collagen, and improve skin tone, texture, fine lines, and acne scars with minimal risk to surrounding tissue.

What is Q-switched laser?

QSL treats pigmentation by shattering the pigment into thousands of tiny particles which are then removed by the body. QSL also stimulate collagen production and are used for improving uneven skin tone, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, reduction of pore size, acne scarring and general skin rejuvenation.

Because the laser energy delivered to the skin is ultra-short duration, QSL are known for preserving surrounding tissue and a reduced risk of unwanted side effects.

This also offers an advanced treatment option for pre-event Rejuvenation and Laser Facials (eg pre-wedding and pre-formal skin rejuvenation). This treatment is also known as the renowned Hollywood Laser Peel.

Real Patient Results

Why do we recommend combination medical & laser management?

Powerful Pigment Correction

Q-Switched laser is specifically designed to break down stubborn pigmentation such as sun spots, freckles, and melasma—conditions that are often resistant to creams or peels. By delivering ultra-fast pulses of laser energy, it targets and fragments pigment particles deep within the skin without damaging the surface. This precision makes it an ideal choice for safely treating all skin types, with gradual fading and a more even skin tone over time.

Brighter, Clearer Skin with Minimal Downtime

Unlike more aggressive laser treatments, Q-Switched laser offers visible improvement without extended recovery. Most patients experience only mild redness or warmth post-treatment, making it easy to return to daily life. Over a series of treatments, the skin becomes noticeably clearer, more luminous, and balanced in tone.

Boosts Long-Term Skin Health

Beyond fading pigmentation, Q-Switched laser also stimulates collagen production deep in the skin. This supports firmer, smoother skin, helps refine pores, and enhances overall skin texture. With regular treatments, you’re not just improving the surface—you’re actively investing in healthier, more resilient skin from within. It’s a rejuvenating treatment that delivers both cosmetic and restorative benefits.

How does QSL work?

Delivers ultra-short pulses of laser energy in billionths of a second (nanoseconds
Targets excess melanin (pigment) deep within the skin without harming surrounding tissue
Breaks pigment into tiny particles that are naturally cleared by the body’s lymphatic system
Stimulates collagen production to improve skin texture and resilience
Safe for all skin types when performed by trained professionals
Effective for conditions like melasma, sun spots, freckles, and uneven skin tone
Minimal downtime, with mild redness or warmth post-treatment that fades quickly

Ready to clear your skin?

Book a consultation to find out if our Micropulse Laser for acne is right for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Q switched laser work?

Q-switched laser (QSL) technology emits laser energy which is concentrated into ultra-powerful pulses that last just a billionth of a second each. Hunter Coast Dermatology and Laser has the Hollywood Spectra Q-Switched Laser, which is considered to be the most superior QSL available. QSL treat pigmentation by shattering the pigment into thousands of tiny particles which are then removed by the body. QSL also stimulate collagen production and are used for improving uneven skin tone, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, reduction of pore size, acne scarring and general skin rejuvenation. Because the laser energy delivered to the skin is ultra-short, QSL are known for preserving surrounding tissue and a reduced risk of unwanted side effects. The short pulses are particularly effective at treating superficial and deep pigmentation, evening out skin tone and improving texture.

What type of Q-switched laser is used at HCDL?

At HCDL we use a particular type of Q switched laser called the Hollywood Spectra. The Hollywood Spectra is the world’s leading ultra-short pulse 1064/532nm laser platform. Hollywood Spectra reduces unwanted skin pigmentation and helps stimulate collagen production, rejuvenate complexions, remove multi-color tattoos, and perform the popular Hollywood Laser Peel® and AcnePeel™.

How should I prepare for my Q switched laser?

Sun protection should be optimised and prioritised. Avoid irritating skin care products in the days leading up to your laser. If you are prone to cold sores, you should discuss this with your treating doctor and nurses. On the day of laser we recommend you come in with a clean face free from sunscreen and make-up.

What should I expect on the day of my laser?

Firstly, HCDL nursing staff will undertake your pre-laser assessment and provide you with all the information and after care resources. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure or recovery period.

Topical anaesthetic is generally not required for this laser treatment, however may be recommended in some instances.

Before your treatment, we thoroughly cleanse the treatment area. Sometimes a thin layer of carbon cream is applied to increase the effects of a China Doll Facial. This cream absorbs the light from the Q-Switched laser before breaking up and removing dead skin cells, dirt and oil from the epidermal layer while contracting your enlarged pores. This treatment is effective for all skin types and is suitable for patients concerned about skin laxity, active acne or post-acne discoloration. During the laser you will wear eye protection and be completely awake.

With minimal downtime required for rejuvenation, many patients return immediately back to their daily activities. If you are having deeper skin lesions treated or tattoos removed, higher energies of the Q-Switched laser are used. Some downtime may be needed, as the healing phase takes longer.

Is the procedure painful?

Everyone experiences discomfort to varying degrees. Topical anaesthetic is applied 1 hour prior to the procedure for stronger rejuvenating treatments, however is generally not required for pigment treatments and peels.

How do I care for my skin after treatment?

HCDL nurses will discuss your after care in detail on the day of your procedure and provide you with clear written individualised instructions. HCDL nursing team are highly trained and directly supervised by Specialist Dermatologists. At HCDL LED light therapy can be added on to all laser treatments. Its use immediately after laser therapy to enhance the clinical outcomes and promote faster recovery. For all medium and deeper resurfacing treatments patients are reviewed the following day and have repeat LED therapy which continues to enhance healing. If desired LED light therapy can be continued every 24-48 hours until the skin is completely healed.

What are the possible side effects?

Expected side effects include redness, swelling and mild peeling of the skin. The intensity and duration will depend on the intensity of treatment needed and will be discussed with you prior. In trained specialist hands, serious side effects are rare. These uncommon or rare side effects can include skin colour changes or darkening of the skin (higher risk in darker skin types), prolonged redness, acne-like eruptions.

Why should I have this treatment at Hunter Coast Dermatology?

Dermatologists are the recognised experts in all conditions and treatments relating to the skin. Dermatologists have extensive knowledge of the conditions that affect the skin, facial skin histology, anatomy and wound healing. These types of procedures should only be performed by experts in the area of skin to achieve the best and safest outcomes.

What is the cost of laser packages?

The cost to have this procedure performed ranges depending on the size of area treated and the number of treatments. Due to the nature of this procedure you need to have a consultation with a dermatologist prior who will discuss if the procedure is right for you and the costs involved. We offer telehealth appointments for patients who do not reside in the local Newcastle area wish wish to undergo treatment at HCDL.