Q-Switched Laser sydney: pigment & rejuvenation

Q-switched laser therapy is an advanced, non-ablative laser treatment that uses ultra-short, high-intensity pulses to safely break down unwanted pigment in the skin. This unique photoacoustic effect shatters pigment into tiny particles, which are then naturally cleared by your body’s immune system. Q-switched lasers are highly valued for their ability to treat pigmentation (such as melasma), brighten skin, and support gentle skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime—even for patients with darker skin types.

how DOES the Q-Switched Laser work?

Q-switched lasers deliver bursts of energy that create a shockwave, breaking up pigment without heating or damaging the surrounding skin. Different wavelengths are used for specific concerns:

1064 nm: Penetrates deeply, making it ideal for treating dermal pigmentation and safe for most skin tones, including Fitzpatrick III–IV.
532 nm: Targets superficial pigment such as freckles, sun spots, and superficial pigmentation.

This technology minimises heat exposure, reducing the risk of side effects and making it suitable for a wide range of skin types and pigment concerns.

why choose the Q-Switched Laser over other lasers?

Unlike ablative lasers (such as CO₂ or Er:YAG) that remove layers of skin, Q-switched lasers work without disrupting the skin’s surface, offering a safer option for pigmentation and rejuvenation—especially in patients at risk of pigment changes. They’re also more comfortable, with little to no downtime compared to more aggressive laser treatments.

clinical uses of Q-Switched Laser

Pigmentation treatment: Effective for melasma, sun spots, freckles, café-au-lait marks, and other pigmented lesions.
Dermal pigmentation: Treats deeper pigment issues such as nevus of Ota, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and melasma
Carbon laser peel (Hollywood Facial): A gentle, no-downtime procedure to brighten skin, reduce oiliness, and refine pores.
Skin rejuvenation: Improves overall skin tone, clarity, and radiance for select skin types.

the carbon laser peel (hollywood facial)

This popular procedure uses a Q-switched 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser and a layer of carbon lotion to deeply cleanse and refresh the skin:

A thin layer of carbon lotion is applied to the face, absorbing oil and debris and settling into pores.
The laser targets and vaporises the carbon, generating a micro-explosive effect that cleanses pores and gently resurfaces the skin.

WHAT to expect after q-switched laser TREATMENT?

Mild redness and warmth for 1–2 hours after treatment
Pigmented spots may darken and naturally exfoliate over 5–7 days
Sun protection is essential to minimise the risk of pigment changes
Avoid treatment on recently sun-exposed or inflamed skin

why choose dr liz for q-switched laser in sydney?

Dermatologist-led Q-switched laser therapy ensures the safest settings for your skin type and concern, expert management of pigment disorders, and minimisation of risks like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Dr Liz can also combine Q-switched laser with other advanced treatments for optimal results.