How Much Does Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Cost?
Why costs vary
Financing options
The average cost of pulsed dye laser treatment is $725, according to 23 reviews from RealSelf members, but some paid as much as $1,500 for a series of treatments.
Pulsed dye laser treatments like Vbeam are used to address red-toned skin issues, including vascular lesions like port wine stains, stretch marks, broken capillaries, and facial redness caused by rosacea. This gentle, effective treatment is FDA cleared to treat adults and children.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Pulsed Dye Laser Treatments
Here, we’ll break down why the price can vary so much, what it includes, and whether or not actual patients think their results were worth the money.
RealSelf Tip: While pulsed dye laser treatments aren’t usually covered by insurance, you may qualify if you want to treat a hemangioma or port wine stain birthmark that has been deemed “disfiguring.”
Is pulsed dye laser treatment worth the money?
Pulsed dye laser therapy has a 74% Worth It Rating on RealSelf, based on recent reviews from real patients.
Those who say it was worth the investment were impressed by how the procedure minimized rosacea-induced redness, birthmarks, and even scars from self-harm and burns. For some, the results have been life-changing.
Most of those who weren’t happy with their outcome say they were left with hypo- or hyperpigmentation—complications that generally result from settings that were too high for the patient’s skin type.
This risk of skin pigmentation issues (or burns) makes pulsed dye laser a riskier option for those with deep complexions. Cooling spray can help minimize the risk, but the Nd:YAG laser may be a better pick. Consult with an experienced provider, who can assess your unique concerns and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your goals.
Why do pulsed dye laser treatment costs vary?
The price you’ll pay for pulsed dye laser treatments will depend on:
1. Your provider’s credentials and level of experience
Who can provide energy-based treatments varies by state, but aestheticians, nurses, physician’s assistants, and doctors are all common practitioners of pulsed dye laser therapy.
As you’d expect, you’ll pay more for a treatment by a provider with advanced training and credentials, such as a board-certified dermatologist. This treatment is considered safe in experienced hands, but complications like blistering and scarring can arise if your provider doesn’t use appropriate settings for your skin type.
The provider’s reputation can also play a role. If their services are in high demand, they’ll be able to charge more for their time.
Related: Doctors Say These Are the Five Holy Grail Treatments for Redness
2. Their practice location
Expect steeper rates for this procedure (and any cosmetic treatment) in major cities, where providers have to cover more overhead thanks to higher costs of living.
Even the neighborhood can impact patient prices, so it’s often worthwhile to get personalized cost quotes from providers who practice beyond the downtown core.
3. The type of anesthesia you need
Pulsed dye laser excels at removing birthmarks like port wine stains, so it’s frequently performed on infants and young children. Kids who are 10 years old and under will be put under general anesthesia for the procedure, which can add hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars to your cost.
For adults addressing routine cosmetic concerns, topical numbing cream will suffice. Your provider will be able to apply it, and the price impact will be minimal.
4. How many treatment sessions you need
Typically, patients need three to five monthly treatments, as well as maintenance appointments every six months thereafter, so budget accordingly.
Ask your provider if they offer package pricing—this means they’ll charge less for your individual treatments if you pay for all of them at once.
5. The size of the treatment area
As you’d expect, large treatment areas will take more time for your provider, so they’ll be more costly.
Can you finance pulsed dye laser treatments?
Yes, you can finance any cosmetic treatment, including pulsed dye laser.
Some providers offer monthly payment plans, which can help you avoid interest. If not, ask them which financing options they accept.