Ruby Laser Treatment: What You Should Know From Mechanism to Recovery

The Ruby Laser is a Q-switched laser that uses monochromatic light with a wavelength of 694nm, utilizing the property that specific chromophores such as melanin, melanosomes, and tattoo pigments relatively absorb this wavelength well.

It is often used for the purpose of treating pigmented lesions or removing tattoos, and whether to proceed, the method, and the number of sessions should be determined through consultation with a specialist who has diagnosed the lesion type and skin condition.

The Mechanism of the Ruby Laser

The Ruby Laser is explained based on the principle of 'selective photothermolysis.' This is a concept that theoretically explains the process in which light of a specific wavelength is absorbed more by the target pigment particles than by surrounding tissue, inducing thermal damage and consequently breaking down the pigment particles.

Based on this principle, it is reported that pigmented lesions or tattooed areas show lightening or removal over the course of treatment, but results may vary depending on the depth of the lesion, pigment density, and individual skin response.

Clinically, it is reported that irradiation is typically performed at a fluence level of about 4–10 J/cm², with a short pulse duration of 20–40ns, and a spot size of 5–7mm, with the specific irradiation conditions adjusted according to the characteristics of the lesion.

What Lesions Is It Used For

The Ruby Laser is reported to be mainly used for age spots (senile lentigines), seborrheic keratosis, tattoos, and other pigmentary disorders. In particular, it is known to show a relatively good response for solar lentigines.

On the other hand, it is reported that melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may show only partial response or inconsistent results, making careful approach and specialist judgment particularly important for these lesions.

Several studies using it for melasma treatment have also reported hypopigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and some cases of worsening, which is understood to mean that determining the indication according to lesion type has a significant impact on outcomes.

Treatment Course and Downtime

It is reported that immediately after the procedure, an instant whitening reaction (immediate whitening response) appears at the irradiated site, and after about 5 minutes, redness and swelling are observed around the area. It is known that this is generally followed by crusting and natural shedding.

For improvement, generally 1 to up to 6 sessions at a fluence level of about 8–10 J/cm² may be needed, with re-treatment intervals typically reported at around 8 weeks. However, the number of sessions and intervals needed may vary depending on the lesion condition.

The most commonly reported side effect is temporary hypopigmentation, which was found at a rate of about 15–17% in a large-scale retrospective study related to nevus of Ota. Hyperpigmentation is reported at about 3–6%, and tissue changes or scarring are relatively rarely reported at about 2–3%. There are also known cases of recurrence where a fully lightened lesion reappears over time.

One large-scale retrospective study (analyzing 151 procedures) reported that side effects were confirmed in only about 1.3% of all procedures, but such figures may vary depending on the study subjects and conditions, so they cannot be considered identical to an individual's own course.

Post-Procedure Recovery and Home Care

After laser treatment, the skin may temporarily experience heat, redness, and sensitivity. During this period, it may be helpful to combine sun protection and avoidance of irritating ingredients with care that helps protect the skin barrier and soothe the skin.

During the period when crusts form, it is generally recommended to maintain sufficient hydration and let them fall off naturally rather than removing them artificially. Since the speed of recovery and response pattern vary greatly among individuals, if abnormal symptoms persist, it is safer to contact the medical institution where the procedure was performed.

Post-Procedure Recovery Is Determined by Home Care

It is known that immediately after the procedure, care focused on barrier support and soothing the sensitized skin can be helpful, while during the recovery period when crusts fall off, care focused on deep hydration can be helpful. In line with this flow, the ABJU Cream is composed of 2 steps. For the immediate post-procedure stage, STEP1 Ultra Cera-Rich is designed to help soothe redness and support the skin barrier, while for the subsequent recovery stage, STEP2 Hydro Re-Boosting is designed to help provide deep hydration. However, it is advisable to check the condition of the treated area and consult with a specialist before using the product.

Medically reviewed by 아비쥬의원 의료진. (September 10, 2026)