Hair Removal Using the Long-Pulsed Ruby Laser

The document from 1999 discusses the effectiveness of long-pulsed ruby lasers for hair removal, which operates at a wavelength of 694 nm to target melanin and potentially convert terminal hair follicles to vellus-like follicles. Clinical studies, including one referenced from Dermatol Surg (1998), show that this method can result in permanent hair loss for up to 2 years, with an average of 65% hair loss observed 4 months after three treatments. The ruby laser, approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal, demonstrated a significant reduction in hair regrowth, with 21% regrowth at 4 weeks and 10% at 16 weeks post-treatment. Patients reported minimal pain and side effects, and the cooling handpiece of the laser aids in patient comfort during treatment. Overall, the long-pulsed ruby laser is considered an effective and satisfactory method for hair removal.