Ruby Laser Pigmentation Program
Performed by Dr. Hyunhwa Kim, MD
Book via WhatsAppAt a Glance
- Best for
- Freckles, sun spots (solar lentigines), Nevus of Ota and ABNOM (Hori's nevus)
- Treatment time
- About 30 minutes
- Downtime
- Treated spots crust for about 7–10 days
- Sessions
- Freckles 1–2; Nevus of Ota or ABNOM usually several
- Price
- From KRW 900,000 (~$600), excl. 10% VAT
- Performed by
- Dr. Hyunhwa Kim, MD, medical director
- Where
- Newve Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul — 3 minutes from Nonhyeon Station (Line 7), Exit 1
The Q-switched ruby laser emits 694 nm light in nanosecond pulses that melanin absorbs strongly. At Newve Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Dr. Hyunhwa Kim uses it for freckles, sun spots (solar lentigines), Nevus of Ota and ABNOM (Hori's nevus). Surface spots typically need 1–2 sessions; deeper dermal pigment needs several sessions months apart.
How It Works
Each pulse lasts only nanoseconds. The pigment heats faster than it can release that heat, so it breaks into small fragments that the body clears gradually.
Surface pigment usually lifts with a thin crust within 1–2 weeks. Deeper dermal pigment, as in Nevus of Ota and ABNOM, fades more slowly over several months and needs repeat sessions.
Treatment Steps
Precautions & Aftercare
Ruby Laser Pigmentation Program: Patient Guide
What can the Q-switched ruby laser treat?
The Q-switched ruby laser (694 nm) targets brown and blue-grey pigment. Melanin absorbs this wavelength strongly, while blood vessels absorb very little, so the laser can act on pigment with limited effect on the surrounding skin. The wavelength also reaches pigment deeper in the dermis, which is why it is used for conditions such as Nevus of Ota and ABNOM as well as surface spots.
| Concern | Where the pigment sits | Typical sessions | Typical interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freckles | Epidermis (surface) | 1–2 | 4–8 weeks |
| Sun spots (solar lentigines) | Epidermis (surface) | 1–2 | 4–8 weeks |
| ABNOM (Hori's nevus) | Dermis (deeper) | Several | 2–3 months |
| Nevus of Ota | Dermis (deeper) | Several | 2–3 months |
The number of sessions depends on the depth and density of the pigment and on your skin type, and is decided at consultation.
What about melasma?
Melasma behaves differently from freckles and sun spots. It is influenced by hormones, heat and inflammation, and strong laser energy can make it worse. If you have melasma alongside other spots, Dr. Kim assesses it separately and plans a gentler approach for it.
Recovery
Treated surface spots usually turn darker and form a thin crust within a day or two. The crust falls off by itself in about 7–10 days, leaving pink skin that blends in over the following weeks. Deeper dermal pigment usually crusts less and fades gradually over 2–3 months.
Planning your trip to Seoul
- Allow about 7–10 days for crusts to fall off before important events or photos.
- Bring or buy a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen and a hat for the rest of your trip.
- Nevus of Ota and ABNOM need several sessions months apart, so plan for repeat visits.
Possible side effects
Expected effects include redness, mild swelling and crusting of treated spots. Temporary darkening (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or lightening of the skin can occur, especially with sun exposure, and usually fades over several months. Incomplete clearance and recurrence of freckles with sun exposure are possible. Scarring is rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ruby laser sessions do I need for freckles?
Freckles and sun spots often respond in 1–2 sessions. New freckles can appear with sun exposure, so daily sunscreen matters after treatment.
Can a ruby laser treat Nevus of Ota or ABNOM?
The 694 nm wavelength reaches pigment in the dermis, which is why it is used for Nevus of Ota and ABNOM. Several sessions spaced 2–3 months apart are usually needed, and response varies.
Can a ruby laser treat melasma?
Melasma needs a careful plan because strong laser energy can make it worse. Dr. Kim assesses melasma separately and may recommend a different approach.
Will my spots get darker before they fade?
Yes. Treated surface spots usually darken and crust for about a week before the crust falls off. This is an expected part of healing.
What is the difference between the ruby laser and Reepot?
Both target pigment. The ruby laser (694 nm) also reaches deeper dermal pigment. Reepot (532 nm with VSLS) is designed for surface spots such as solar lentigines. Dr. Kim chooses the device according to the type and depth of each spot.
Can I wear makeup after ruby laser treatment?
Avoid makeup directly on crusted spots until they fall off naturally. You can usually apply makeup around them, following the aftercare instructions you receive.
Pricing
| Option | KRW (excl. 10% VAT) | USD (reference only) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ruby Laser — 1 session | KRW 900,000 | ~$600 | +10% VAT |
| Ruby Laser — 2 sessions | KRW 1,600,000 | ~$1,067 | +10% VAT |
| Ruby Laser — 3 sessions | KRW 2,000,000 | ~$1,333 | +10% VAT |
USD prices are a reference estimate only (₩1,500 = $1) — all payments are made in Korean Won (KRW) at the clinic. Listed prices exclude 10% VAT (added at payment). Final pricing confirmed at consultation.
Visiting Newve Clinic in Gangnam
- Address: 4F, Gunwoo Building, 548 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06110
- Subway: Nonhyeon Station (Line 7), Exit 1 — about 3 minutes on foot
- Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 10:00–18:30 (lunch 13:00–14:00) · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Closed Wed, Sun
- Language: Consultations in English and Korean
Message us on WhatsApp with your travel dates to arrange a consultation. Your treatment plan is confirmed after an in-person consultation with Dr. Kim.
