How much does one session of Q-switched laser pigmentation removal cost?

Feb 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 30-year-old female patient who has long suffered from facial freckles, and I hope to improve my skin condition through Q-switched laser treatment. I would like to know the exact cost of the Q-switched laser treatment.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu

Q-switched laser pigmentation removal is currently a popular cosmetic procedure. It works by applying high-energy laser pulses to pigmented particles on the skin, breaking them down so they can be metabolized by the body, thus achieving the effect of pigmentation removal. The usual price range for Q-switched laser pigmentation removal is approximately 500–5,000 yuan per session. The exact price depends on various factors including the type of pigmentation, treatment area, depth of pigmentation, and regional economic conditions.

Type of Pigmentation, for example:

Freckles and melasma respond well to laser treatment, requiring fewer sessions and therefore costing relatively less, usually around 500–1,000 yuan per session. Café-au-lait spots require more treatment sessions and are relatively more expensive, typically costing 1,000–2,000 yuan per session. Smaller pigmented spots are easier to treat and thus less expensive, with prices generally ranging from 500–1,000 yuan per session. Larger pigmented areas require longer treatment times and more laser energy, costing approximately 2,000–5,000 yuan per session.

Lighter pigmentation is easier to treat and therefore less costly. Deeper pigmentation requires more treatment sessions and higher laser energy, resulting in higher costs. In economically developed regions where the cost of living is higher, the price of laser pigmentation removal tends to be higher as well. Conversely, in less economically developed areas, the cost of treatment is relatively lower.

It is recommended that patients consult a professional dermatologist before choosing treatment, to fully understand the treatment process and associated costs, and to ensure treatment is conducted at a legitimate medical facility. Seeking cheaper options at non-professional institutions may lead to adverse consequences. Additionally, sun protection after treatment is essential to prevent recurrence of pigmentation.