Treatment Overview
The Ruby Laser is one of the earliest pigment-targeting lasers and remains a highly effective treatment for age spots (liver spots), freckles, sunspots, café-au-lait marks, and tattoo removal.
It operates at a 694 nm wavelength, which is strongly absorbed by melanin. This makes it particularly powerful for breaking down pigmented lesions. In Korea, dermatologists use Q-Switched Ruby Lasers to deliver extremely short pulses of high energy, fragmenting melanin clusters into tiny particles that are naturally cleared by the body’s immune system.
Although newer lasers (such as Pico and Nd:YAG) are more common, the Ruby Laser is still considered one of the most precise and reliable devices for stubborn or well-defined age spots. Korean dermatologists often combine it with other treatments (toning lasers, Pico lasers, brightening boosters) for optimal results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Targeted Pigment Removal: Highly effective for isolated liver spots, freckles, and sun-induced pigmentation.
- High Melanin Absorption: Stronger effect on pigment than Nd:YAG or Alexandrite lasers.
- Precision: Excellent for small, stubborn spots resistant to other treatments.
- Long-Lasting Results: Often clears spots with fewer sessions compared to toning lasers.
- Multi-Functional: Also treats tattoos and other pigmented lesions.
Ideal Candidates
Ruby Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with stubborn age spots (liver spots) or well-defined pigmented lesions.
- Patients who have tried toning or peels with limited success.
- Individuals who want fast, targeted clearance of pigment rather than gradual fading.
Possible Risks & Complications
Because of its strong absorption by melanin, Ruby Laser must be used carefully:
- Redness & Swelling: Normal after treatment, lasting hours to a few days.
- Scabbing/Crusting: Pigmented spots may darken and form scabs before shedding.
- Temporary Darkening: Liver spots can initially look darker before clearing.
- PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Risk is higher than with newer lasers but minimized with Korean low-fluence protocols and aftercare.
- Hypopigmentation: Rare lightening of treated skin if over-treated.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Q-Switched Ruby Laser (694 nm): Ultra-short pulses shatter melanin clusters.
- Spot Treatment Mode: Precise targeting of individual age spots.
- Combination Protocols: Often paired with Nd:YAG or Pico lasers for full-face brightening.
- Treatment Frequency: 1–3 sessions usually sufficient; resistant spots may need more.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness, tingling, or warmth.
- 1–3 Days: Darkening and scabbing of treated age spots.
- 1–2 Weeks: Scabs naturally fall off, revealing lighter skin.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent recurrence.
- Use soothing, hydrating creams to support healing.
- Avoid scrubs, acids, or retinoids until fully healed.
- Do not pick at scabs, as this may cause scarring or PIH.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Many age spots lighten significantly or disappear.
- 2–3 Sessions: Stubborn or larger spots cleared.
- Long-Term: Results can last years; new age spots may appear with UV exposure, requiring maintenance.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korean dermatologists have refined Ruby Laser protocols to maximize safety while ensuring excellent pigment clearance.
- Consultation & Skin Analysis
- The dermatologist evaluates pigmentation depth and ensures spots are benign (sometimes using dermoscopy).
- Ruby Laser is recommended for well-defined sunspots/liver spots.
- Preparation
- Cleansing of treatment area.
- Protective eyewear provided.
- Optional numbing cream applied for sensitive patients.
- Ruby Laser Session
- Focused laser pulses delivered to targeted liver spots.
- Each pulse creates a whitening or slight gray “frosting” effect on the spot (indicating melanin destruction).
- Sessions typically last 10–20 minutes, depending on the number of spots.
- Post-Treatment Care
- Cooling therapy or healing cream applied.
- Sunscreen protection emphasized.
- Optional add-ons like whitening serums, antioxidant drips, or Glutathione IV for enhanced pigment reduction.
- Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Most spots clear in 1–2 sessions.
- Resistant pigment may require additional Ruby or combination with Pico/Fraxel.
- Yearly check-ups recommended for prevention and maintenance.
Unique Korean Methods & Advantages:
- Combination Programs: Ruby + Pico for both deep and superficial pigment.
- Advanced Devices: New-generation Q-Switched Ruby Lasers with safer energy control.
- Asian Skin Protocols: Designed to minimize PIH and maximize safe pigment clearance.
- Integrated Packages: Clinics bundle Ruby with toning, whitening drips, or skin boosters.
- Reputation: Korea is a global leader in safe pigmentation removal, attracting patients worldwide.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Spot Treatment: USD 40 – 80 per lesion.
- Full Face Session: USD 200 – 400
- 2–3 Session Package: USD 500 – 1,000
- Premium Combination Programs (Ruby + Pico/Fraxel/Boosters): USD 1,200 – 2,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons:
- Whitening drips (Glutathione, Vitamin C): USD 100 – 200
- Skin boosters (Rejuran, PN, exosomes): USD 150 – 400
- Post-laser repair kits: USD 50 – 100
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic Ruby Package: 1–2 sessions for age spot removal – USD 400–600
- Advanced Program: Ruby + Whitening IV drips (3 sessions) – USD 800–1,200
- Premium Anti-Aging Pigment Program: Ruby + Pico + Fraxel + Rejuran boosters (5 sessions) – USD 2,000–2,800
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Ruby Laser for isolated age spots + combination laser toning.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Ruby + Pico for stubborn liver spots.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Ruby for freckles + café-au-lait spots + whitening therapy.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Ruby + Fraxel for pigment + anti-aging.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium Ruby pigmentation programs with boosters and IV drips.
