Yet another laser in Mizu’s arsenal of pigmentation lasers, the Quanta Ruby laser is a solid-state laser that uses a synthetic ruby crystal rod to emit a wavelength of 694nm energy to target skin pigmentation.
As one of the very few clinics in Singapore to have a Ruby laser, Dr YZ Tan has developed settings for the Ruby laser, with the combination of the laser components from the Discovery Pico laser, unique to Mizu for effectively treating specific pigmentation conditions.
All laser treatments work differently. With different types of pigmentation existing in different layers, it requires using a machine that can reach the affected layer.
The Ruby laser, at 694nm wavelength, is specifically used to treat epidermal pigmentation, i.e pigments on the first layer of the skin such as freckles, sun spots, lentigos, and age spots etc., and some dermal pigmentation such as melasma.
Clinical studies suggest that pigmented lesions in Asian skin must be treated with high energy densities, making the Quanta Ruby a suitable treatment. The Ruby laser is a very effective laser to reduce pigmentation with reduced side effects. This is because of its high absorption rate by melanin and low absorption rate by other components in the skin.
From the graph, we can see that at the 694nm wavelength, the Ruby laser’s energy is mainly absorbed by melanin, and minimally by oxyhemoglobin and water. With hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) being one of the main side effects of lasers, this reduced absorption by oxyhemoglobin and water with the high absorption rate of melanin means that the Ruby laser can more effectively remove melanin (which is pigmentation) with a much lower risk of hyperpigmentation.
This is because the Ruby laser can operate at a low power setting but the same amount of energy is absorbed by melanin as compared to other lasers. This allows the laser energy to be maximised and effectively remove pigmentation with reduced chances of side effects.
The effectiveness of Ruby laser in removing a tattoo is contingent on the type of ink used. Studies have shown that blue/black and green tattoos respond well to the Ruby Laser due to the strong absorption of red laser light.
Numbing cream is always applied before the Ruby laser treatment. This ensures that the procedure is comfortable. However, some bright pink/red light can be seen even with goggles over the eyes.
There is minimal downtime although there will be some redness and a slight prickly sensation post-treatment for a few minutes.
For certain pigmentation such as freckles, there can be some scabbing which usually last for 3-5 days and will fall off after, leaving the skin clear.
Some pigmentation can temporarily darken slightly after the treatment and lighten after 5-7 days.
The number of Ruby laser treatments required to safely and effectively remove the pigmentation depends on the size and degree of pigment correction needed. Results are permanent, however, new spots can develop if not properly cared for.
On average, about 3 – 6 treatments will be required for best results. Some conditions might require more sessions.
At Mizu Aesthetic Clinic, we offer 4 different types of pigmentation lasers – the Ruby, Pico, Q-Switched and Pro Yellow. Each machine is devised to have its distinctive features to treat different types of pigmentation.