The Effect of Ruby Laser Light on Cellular Proliferation of Epidermal Cells

The study investigated whether ruby laser-assisted hair removal causes cellular hyperproliferation in the basal epidermal cells, where melanosomes are concentrated. Ten white patients were treated with the Chromes 694-nm Depilation Ruby Laser, and biopsies were taken before and after treatments. The presence of cell hyperproliferation was assessed using immuno-histochemical staining of keratin 16 and Ki67. The results showed no evidence of cell hyperproliferation in any of the specimens examined after ruby laser irradiation. The authors concluded that, unlike ultraviolet-irradiated cell damage, ruby laser treatment did not lead to increased basal cell turnover despite potential microscopic damage.