The Ruby laser is an infrared laser and was the first laser hair removal system on the market. As such, it has a longer track record than other laser hair removal options but is also an older technology.

Ruby lasers tend to be ideal for people who have light-colored skin and dark hair.

A Ruby laser works by emitting a pulse of light from a handheld device that is held up against the area of skin to be treated. Once the pulse has been delivered, the practitioner moves to the next area of skin and the process is repeated until the entire area has been covered.

Since it's an older laser technology, there are other newer laser hair removal options that are becoming more readily available than the Ruby laser and that might be more effective, too.

Plus, there are also light-based hair removal systems on the market also based on newer technology that instead of using laser, use a pulsed light to get rid of unwanted hair that many people are turning to and that are widely available.

Still, the Ruby laser has a long track record that generally shows that it can offer long-term hair reduction when operated by a skilled and trained professional. The amount of pain felt by the patient tends to vary on a case by case basis.

Long term success and possible side effects of the hair removal will also vary by patient.