Treatment Overview
The Q-Switched Ruby Laser operates at a 694 nm wavelength, one of the most effective for targeting melanin-rich pigmentation. It delivers short, high-energy pulses that selectively shatter melanin clusters into tiny fragments without significantly damaging surrounding skin.
In Korea, the Q-Switched Ruby Laser is often recommended for stubborn pigmentation, such as freckles, age spots, café-au-lait spots, Ota nevus, and resistant melasma. It is also widely used for tattoo removal, especially green, blue, and dark-colored inks that are harder to treat with other lasers. Korean dermatology clinics value the Ruby system for its precision, depth, and strong pigment clearance ability, though it is generally best suited for lighter to medium skin tones.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (Q-Switched Ruby, Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, Pico Lasers, Dual Toning, Gold Toning, Fraxel Dual, CO₂ Fractional, IPL):
- Q-Switched Ruby (694 nm): Best for resistant pigmentation + green/blue tattoos.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG (1064/532): Best for melasma, freckles, and PIH control.
- Q-Switched Alexandrite (755 nm): Best for superficial pigmentation + tattoos.
- Pico Lasers (PicoSure, PicoPlus, PicoCare): Best for stubborn pigment + scars.
- Dual Toning: Best for combined superficial + deep melasma.
- Gold Toning: Best for vascular melasma + sensitive skin.
Purpose & Benefits
- Pigmentation Clearance: Effective for freckles, sunspots, and resistant lesions.
- Birthmark Treatment: Targets Ota nevus and café-au-lait spots.
- Tattoo Removal: Highly effective on blue, green, and black inks.
- Stubborn Pigment Eraser: Works when other lasers fail to fully clear pigmentation.
- High Precision: Selectively targets melanin while sparing normal skin.
Ideal Candidates
Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with freckles, sunspots, or age spots.
- Patients with Ota nevus, café-au-lait birthmarks, or resistant melasma.
- Individuals seeking tattoo removal (especially blue, green, or dark colors).
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- Ruby: Best for resistant pigment + colored tattoos.
- Nd:YAG: Best for melasma + deep dermal pigment.
- Alexandrite: Best for superficial pigment + lighter tattoos.
- Pico Lasers: Best for stubborn pigment + scars.
- Dual/Gold Toning: Best for melasma and PIH control.
Possible Risks & Complications
While effective, the Ruby Laser has a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in darker skin tones. Common temporary effects include:
- Redness & Swelling: Fades within hours to a few days.
- Crusting or Scabbing: As treated pigment rises to the surface.
- Temporary Darkening: Pigment may darken before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH, hypopigmentation, or scarring (rare with expert Korean dermatologists).
Surgical Techniques Used
The Q-Switched Ruby Laser uses 694 nm selective photothermolysis:
- 694 nm Wavelength: Strong absorption by melanin, ideal for stubborn pigment.
- Q-Switched Mode: Delivers ultra-short high-energy pulses to shatter pigment.
- Protocol:
- Pigmentation: 2–5 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
- Tattoos: 6–10 sessions depending on size, depth, and ink color.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, warmth, or pinpoint bleeding.
- 2–3 Days: Scabbing and darkening of treated pigment.
- 1–2 Weeks: Pigment flakes off or fades significantly.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply soothing ointments as directed.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent recurrence.
- Avoid scratching or picking at crusts.
- Do not use harsh skincare (scrubs, acids, retinoids) for 1–2 weeks.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Pigment darkens, then begins to flake or fade.
- Short-Term (2–3 Sessions): Freckles, sunspots, or tattoos visibly lighten.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Sessions): Stubborn pigmentation significantly reduced.
- Long-Term: Permanent clearance of treated pigment/tattoo, with proper aftercare.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor examines pigment depth, type, or tattoo ink.
- Preparation – Cleansing, numbing cream if needed, protective eyewear.
- Ruby Laser Session – 694 nm pulses applied precisely to pigmented areas.
- Post-Care: Cooling gel, healing ointments, or antioxidant serums.
- Follow-Up: Multiple sessions recommended for full clearance.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean clinics use FDA/KFDA-approved Ruby Lasers with advanced protocols.
- Dermatologists are skilled in treating stubborn pigmentation safely.
- Affordable compared to Western clinics.
- Clinics often combine Ruby with Pico or Nd:YAG lasers for optimal results.
- Seoul is internationally known for its expertise in pigmentation and tattoo correction.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Korea:
- Pigmentation Removal (per session): USD 150 – 300
- Tattoo Removal (per session): USD 200 – 500 (depending on size and ink colors)
- 5–10 Session Tattoo Package: USD 1,200 – 3,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Whitening boosters, skin regeneration serums): USD 80 – 300
💡 The Q-Switched Ruby Laser is often called “the stubborn pigment eraser” in Korea, due to its unique ability to clear difficult pigmentation and resistant tattoo inks.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Ruby Laser for resistant pigmentation + tattoos.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Ruby protocols for Ota nevus + café-au-lait.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Ruby + Pico combo for stubborn pigment.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Ruby Laser for sunspots + freckles.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium Ruby Laser with regeneration add-ons.
