How Much Does an IPL Treatment Cost?

The average cost of an IPL treatment is $650, according to 400 reviews from RealSelf members, but some say they've paid as much as $1,800. 

Read on to find out why you might pay more or less for this type of photorejuvenation and whether actual patients think it was worth the price they paid.

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Is the cost of IPL treatment worth the results?

IPL treatment, sometimes known as a photofacial, has an 78% Worth It Rating from RealSelf members. 

The first IPL device was FDA approved in 1995, and the treatment has a long track record of improving skin texture and reducing the signs of sun damage, age spots, melasma, broken capillaries, and other pigmentation concerns, without significant downtime. Side effects are usually minimal.

An IPL photofacial treatment can also stimulate collagen production and improve fine lines and wrinkles. 

Many RealSelf members rave about their great results from IPL treatments, which can also be extremely effective for managing the redness and flushing component of rosacea. "My skin has not looked this good in such a long time," says one RealSelf member who had IPL therapy to treat rosacea. 

The treatment is not foolproof, however. Other RealSelf members have reported complications, including "horrible" burns, blisters, and scars, when treated by poorly trained providers. 

Some patients aren't good candidates for the treatment—it's safest on those with fair to medium skin tones and used with extreme caution (if at all) by those with olive, brown, or deep skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types 3–6). 

If you're considering investing in an IPL treatment, be sure to be evaluated by an experienced provider (ideally a board-certified dermatologist) to ensure that you're a good candidate, and that it's the right choice for treating your specific concerns.

Keep in mind, too, that good skincare is essential to maintain results and keep signs of aging at bay. You'll want to invest in—and regularly apply—a sunscreen with an SPF of 30+.

What factors affect IPL treatment costs?

Several factors influence the cost of IPL treatment. 

1) Your provider’s credentials and level of experience

In most states, a medical, nursing, or physicians assistant license is required to operate the type of device used to perform intense pulse light therapy. 

Providers on RealSelf disagree on whether it's safe for someone other than a physician to perform IPL treatments, even if the operator is working under the direction of the physician, who first evaluates the patient and advises what energy settings to use. 

Some argue that physicians are able to recognize the dynamics of the treatment while it's underway, raising or lowering the energy settings to provide the best possible treatment, while minimizing risks and maximizing the benefit. 

Others say photofacial treatment is safe, as long as it's performed by an experienced operator under the direct supervision of a physician—meaning that they're on-site and available for consultation if the need arises. 

When it comes to costs, you'll pay more for a treatment that's performed by a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. 

2) The size and number of treatment areas

The most common treatment area for IPL is the face, but it can also be used to treat discoloration on the neck, chest, and hands. 

Some people with rosacea may just need the cheeks, nose, and chin treated, so the cost may be reduced; a spot treatment can be half the cost of a full-face treatment. 

If you have several areas treated at once, you'll have a higher total bill, but most providers discount the cost of each additional area. 

3) The number of treatments you'll need

You won't see much difference after having one IPL treatment. Depending on the severity of your skin concerns, you can expect to need at least 3–4 IPL sessions, four to six weeks apart, to see a noticeable improvement. 

During your initial consultation, ask your provider how many treatments they think you'll need, so you can budget accordingly. 

Many providers will provide a discount if you purchase a series of treatments up-front, and sometimes providers offer promotional pricing for a limited time. Before you spring for deals or specials, make sure you know who will be performing your treatment, how much training they have, and whether they'll be supervised by a physician.

4) Whether you combine IPL with other procedures

For optimal results, some providers recommend that you have other treatments, such as microneedling with PRP or laser skin resurfacing, in addition to IPL—often during the same appointment. 

Combining treatments in one session typically costs less than having the procedures done separately, but those additional treatments will increase your overall bill.

5) Where your IPL treatment is performed

Cosmetic procedures usually cost more in major metro areas, which have a higher cost of living. This is especially true if your provider practices in a more expensive part of town, versus in a less exclusive neighborhood. 

IPL treatment is typically performed in an office setting, so you probably won't be charged a separate facility fee, but be sure to ask for a detailed cost quote that includes a breakdown of all fees.

Is IPL treatment covered by insurance?

IPL therapy is considered a cosmetic procedure, so most insurance plans don't cover it.

Unfortunately, that's true even if the treatment is for a skin condition like rosacea, rather than skin rejuvenation. 

If cost is a barrier, speak to your provider about monthly payment plans or financing options that will fit with your budget.

IPL treatment costs in U.S. states

Browse the average cost of IPL treatments in select U.S. states, according to patient reviews on RealSelf. As of July 2023, Michigan had the cheapest average cost (as reported by patients), while Washington state was the most expensive. States not currently listed did not have enough data to include.

SculpSure costs in U.S. states

Browse the average cost of SculpSure in select U.S. states, according to patient reviews on RealSelf. As of July 2023, Michigan had the cheapest average cost (as reported by patients), while Colorado was the most expensive. States not currently listed did not have enough data to include.

IPL costs in major U.S. metros

Average costs according to patient-reported data. As of July 2023, the cheapest metro area in the U.S. to get an IPL treatment is Detroit, while people tend to pay the most in San Francisco. Cities not listed did not have enough data to include.