Q-switched ruby laser in cosmetic dermatology

Daisy Kopera

doi:10.1117/12.260720

3 December 1996 Q-switched ruby laser in cosmetic dermatology

Daisy Kopera

Proceedings Volume 2922, Laser Applications in Medicine and Dentistry; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.260720
Event: BiOS Europe '96, 1996, Vienna, Austria

Abstract

The q-switched ruby laser has shown promising results in the treatment of blue and black tattoos. The red light of the ruby laser, 694 nm wavelength, selectively absorbed by dark pigments, is converted into heat and pigments are immediately vaporized. Energy levels range between 4, 5 and 12 J/cm². Short exposure time does not exceed the thermal relaxation time of the target structures. Thus, thermal damage of the surrounding tissue is minimal. Not only exogenous pigment as tattoo ink but also physiological pigmented structures as melanocytes, melanosome loaden keratinocytes, and melanophages are affected by this type of laser application. Therefore the ruby laser represents a new option in the treatment of a variety of benign pigmented lesions in cosmetic dermatology. The benefit of this source can be seen in efficient clearing of the lesions without scarring. As a side effect transient hypopigmentation may occur. Ruby laser treatment of melanocytic lesions cannot be recommended because unpigmented nevus cells do not absorb red light and persist unaltered. They still bear the potency of further transformation, as into malignancy.

Citation Download Citation

Daisy Kopera "Q-switched ruby laser in cosmetic dermatology", Proc. SPIE 2922, Laser Applications in Medicine and Dentistry, (3 December 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.260720

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