Q-switched laser

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™.

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.