The Dream Team Behind Transformational Results

DR SAMANTHA DAVIDSON and TAHLIA CUSACK on the Alma Harmony Advantage

Gold Coast Dermatology Clinic has been a trusted name in skin health since 1980, earning the title of the longest-running dermatology practice on the coast. When dermatologist Dr Samantha Davidson took over in 2015, she brought with her a vision to evolve the clinic beyond its traditional medical roots. Under her leadership, the practice has transformed into a full-spectrum dermatology destination, offering medical, surgical, aesthetic, and advanced laser treatments. Many of the original patients still attend, a testament to the clinic’s long-standing reputation for safety, results, and patient care.

A Collaborative Force

In 2022, dermal and laser therapist Tahlia Cusack joined the team, and quickly became integral to its evolution. Demonstrating leadership and clinical excellence well beyond her role, she now serves as the practice manager, and lead dermal therapist. Together, Dr Davidson and Tahlia have created a uniquely collaborative environment, expanding the clinic’s offerings while ensuring consistency and continuity in patient care.

“We both know almost every patient the other is seeing,” Dr Davidson says. “That level of communication and care ensures we’re aligned on goals and outcomes.”

Smart Technology, Streamlined Workflows

With the clinic’s growth came logistical challenges. “We often had full rooms and too many devices to juggle,” explains Dr Davidson. “It became clear we needed something more efficient.” Enter the Alma Harmony, a multimodal laser platform chosen for its versatility and ability to streamline treatment delivery.

“The Harmony allowed us to consolidate multiple treatments into one system while expanding what we could offer,” says Dr Davidson.

She highlights key features:

• ClearSkin Pro: Boosted the clinic’s Rapid Access Acne Clinic by offering energybased solutions alongside topical and medical treatments.

• ClearLift Pro: Enabled safe and effective pigment treatment across a wider range of skin types, including skin of colour.

• Sleek design: The device’s aesthetic complements their modern clinical setting.

Patient-Centric Treatment Planning

At the heart of the clinic’s success is its patientfirst approach. Every treatment journey begins with an in-depth consultation that may include clinical imaging, thorough history-taking, and discussion of realistic goals.

“Most patients don’t come in with just one concern,” says Dr Davidson. “We aim to maximise their time with combination treatments that are not only more effective but also more satisfying for the patient.”

Regular reviews and strong compliance protocols support consistent outcomes. “We don’t just treat and forget, we follow up, reassess, and refine,” she adds.

Patient-Centric Treatment Planning

At the heart of the clinic’s success is its patientfirst approach. Every treatment journey begins with an in-depth consultation that may include clinical imaging, thorough history-taking, and discussion of realistic goals.

“Most patients don’t come in with just one concern,” says Dr Davidson. “We aim to maximise their time with combination treatments that are not only more effective but also more satisfying for the patient.”

Regular reviews and strong compliance protocols support consistent outcomes. “We don’t just treat and forget, we follow up, reassess, and refine,” she adds.

In the Treatment Room with Tahlia Cusack

Tahlia’s clinical focus spans pigment correction, vascular treatments, and energy-based rejuvenation. Her approach is grounded in education and transparency, helping patients understand the ‘why’ behind their treatment plans and what results to expect over time.

She has seen strong results with:

• VascuPen and ClearVas for facial vessels and rosacea

• ClearLift Pro for melasma and sun damage “These modalities don’t just deliver quick results, they build long-term skin health and resilience,” Tahlia explains. Known for her honest and empathetic style, she’s developed a loyal following. “Patients appreciate that we’re realistic but still results-driven.”

Comfort, Compliance, and Results

Combination treatments have become particularly popular at the clinic, thanks to their comfort and efficacy. “When treatments are comfortable, patients are more likely to stick with the process,” says Dr Davidson. This compliance is especially important in protocols like acne management, where consistency determines results.

A Strategic Investment

Dr Davidson is pragmatic about technology investment. “Patients often come in asking for a specific treatment they saw online, but what they actually need might be something else entirely.”

Quoting Maslow, she adds: “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you treat everything like a nail. The Harmony gives us a full toolbox, so we’re never limited.”

Another major advantage? No consumables. “We don’t hesitate to do test patches or smaller treatments because we’re not worried about ongoing costs,” she explains.

Skin Health at Every Stage

With patients ranging from children to those in their 90s, the clinic’s philosophy centres on lifelong skin health, not just anti-ageing. “We’re here to support skin through every stage of life,” says Dr Davidson. “Healthy skin is glowing skin, no matter your age.”

Evolving with Purpose

The story of Gold Coast Dermatology Clinic is one of quiet transformation, rooted in medical excellence, strengthened by collaboration, and elevated by technology. Rather than following fleeting trends, Dr Samantha Davidson and Tahlia Cusack have focused on delivering enduring results, guided by science and a deep understanding of patient needs.

Their integration of the Alma Harmony platform is a reflection of this philosophy. As Dr Davidson puts it, it’s not about doing everything at once, it’s about starting with what works and building from there.

“There’s a handpiece for every skin type,” she says. “Once you understand the fundamentals, the real power comes in how you combine them.”

Learn more about Alma Lasers at alma-lasers.com.au/

Handpieces Mentioned:

ClearLift Pro – Q-Switched Nd:YAG and KTP for pigmentation and rejuvenation.

ClearSkin Pro – Erbium Glass for acne and acne scarring.

ClearVas – Long-pulsed Nd:YAG for vascular lesions.

VascuPen – Green diode laser for superficial vascular lesions. Iris Dye VL – IPL for superficial pigmentation and globalised redness.