North Shore Laser and Cosmetic Dermatologist Sydney
Q-Switched Laser Treatments in Sydney
Targeted Pigment Removal. Precision That Protects.
Medical-grade pigment treatment tailored by an experienced procedural dermatologist.
What is Q-Switched Laser?
Q-Switched (QS) lasers deliver short bursts of high-energy light to break down pigment in the skin. They’re one of the most effective tools for treating:
Superficial pigment (freckles, age spots, sun spots) (esp low contrast lesions=
Deeper dermal pigmentation (naevus of Ota, Hori’s naevus)
Certain post-inflammatory pigment changes (PIH)
Select benign pigmented lesions
At Northern Sydney Dermatology & Laser, Dr. Nina Wines performs QS laser treatments using 532nm and 1064nm wavelengths—selected based on pigment depth, skin type, and diagnostic confidence.
Dr Nina uses both 532nm and 1064nm Q-Switched laser wavelengths, each selected based on your specific pigmentation concern and skin type. The 532nm wavelength is ideal for treating superficial pigmentation such as sun spots and freckles on lighter skin tones—it targets pigment closer to the surface with precision. The 1064nm wavelength, on the other hand, penetrates more deeply into the skin and is safer for darker skin types. It is often used to treat deeper pigment conditions, such as dermal pigmentation or certain tattoos. The choice of wavelength is not just about the pigment—it’s also about skin safety. Dr. Wines carefully selects the right parameters based on clinical evaluation, ensuring each treatment is both effective and safe.
Dermatologist-Led Treatment: Why It Matters
Pigment lasers are powerful tools—but only in skilled medical hands. Misuse can lead to complications, including:
Hypopigmentation or paradoxical darkening
Worsening of melasma or underlying skin disease
Missed diagnosis of melanoma or suspicious lesions
Dr. Wines assesses all pigmented lesions before laser treatment to confirm they’re benign and safe to treat. Her team uses dermoscopy and, when appropriate, biopsy, ensuring pigment reduction without compromise.
Treatment Uses at Our Clinic
Solar lentigines (“age spots”) on face, chest, hands
Freckles and pigmentation from chronic sun exposure
Benign dermal pigment conditions (e.g. naevus of Ota)
Tattoo pigment (black, blue, red — multicolour if needed)
Pre-laser skin clearance of suspicious lesions when needed
In complex cases, QS laser is often combined with BBL or fractional lasers for more even and refined results.
What to Expect
Downtime: Minimal for 1064nm; 532nm may cause redness, scabbing or temporary darkening
Treatment Time: 15–30 minutes depending on area
Sessions: Typically 1–3 for freckles; 4–6+ for deeper pigment or tattoos
Aftercare: SPF, no picking, emollient use, avoid active skincare for 5–7 days
Dr. Nina Wines prioritises long-term outcomes, not quick fixes. Her patients benefit from:
A diagnostic approach to pigment treatment
Conservative but effective fluence settings
Safe protocols for skin of all colours
Ongoing monitoring and support throughout recovery
FAQs
Q: Is Q-Switched laser painful? A: Most patients describe it as a sharp, hot flick—tolerable without anaesthetic. Numbing is optional for sensitive areas or tattoos.
Q: How many sessions will I need? A: That depends on the pigment type, depth, and your skin tone. Some spots resolve in 1–2 sessions; others may require a series spaced 4–8 weeks apart.
Q: Will the pigment return? A: Treated pigment usually doesn’t return, but new sun exposure may create new lesions. Ongoing SPF use and maintenance may be advised.
Q: Can I combine QS laser with other treatments? A: Yes. Many of Dr. Wines’ patients have combination treatments where pigment is treated with QS, then resurfaced with Fraxel or BBL for complete skin tone refinement.
Q: Can QS laser treat melasma? A: Not usually. QS laser may worsen melasma if not used with extreme caution. Dr. Wines uses a separate protocol for melasma, focusing on laser timing, pigment protection, and hormonal influences.
