Ruby laser hair removal
694 nm
An older laser for very fair skin and fine hair — rarely used today.
Light–olive skin onlyBest: Fitzpatrick I–IIComfort: Moderate
The ruby laser (694 nm) was one of the first used for hair removal. Its very high melanin absorption suits very fair skin with fine hair, but it is slow, has a higher risk on any pigmented skin, and has largely been replaced by alexandrite, diode and Nd:YAG systems. You will rarely see it in a modern clinic.
Strengths
- Works on very fair skin and fine hair
Limitations
- Largely obsolete
- Slow
- Not for pigmented/dark skin
Common systems that use it
Legacy ruby systems (rare today)
Questions
Is the Ruby laser safe for dark skin?
No. The Ruby (694 nm) is best for lighter skin (Fitzpatrick I–II). On dark or tanned skin it carries a higher risk of burns and hyperpigmentation — an Nd:YAG laser is the safer choice.
Does the Ruby hurt?
Comfort level: Moderate. Individual pain varies by area and settings; numbing cream and contact cooling make treatment much more comfortable.