How Much Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost on Average?
Laser skin resurfacing is a popular cosmetic treatment that improves skin texture, tone, and appearance by removing damaged outer layers of skin. It’s commonly used to treat wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, and uneven pigmentation. Many patients combine laser resurfacing with treatments like microneedling or chemical peels for enhanced results.
In 2026, most patients pay between $1,000 and $5,000 per session for laser skin resurfacing in the United States, depending on the type of laser used and the area being treated.
| Treatment Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Ablative CO2 Laser | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Ablative Erbium Laser | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Non-Ablative Laser | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Fractional Laser Resurfacing | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Full Face Treatment | $2,500 – $5,000 |
Laser Skin Resurfacing Costs by Region
| Region | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Northeast (NYC, Boston) | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| West Coast (LA, San Francisco) | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| Southeast (Miami, Atlanta) | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Midwest (Chicago, Dallas) | $1,200 – $4,000 |
| Southwest (Phoenix, Las Vegas) | $1,000 – $3,500 |
What’s Included in the Cost?
A typical laser skin resurfacing quote includes the laser treatment itself, topical numbing cream or anesthesia, post-treatment skincare products, and follow-up visits. Some providers include a pre-treatment consultation in the price while others charge separately — always confirm before booking.
What Factors Affect the Price?
The type of laser used is the biggest cost driver — ablative lasers that remove the outer skin layer are more intensive and expensive than non-ablative options that work beneath the surface without removing skin. The size of the treatment area, the number of sessions needed, your provider’s experience, and your geographic location all significantly affect the final price.
Does Insurance Cover Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Generally no — laser skin resurfacing is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance. In rare cases where the treatment addresses a medical condition such as precancerous lesions, partial coverage may apply. Check with your provider and insurer directly.
Financing Options
Many medical spas and dermatology practices offer financing through CareCredit or similar services. Package deals for multiple sessions are also commonly available at a reduced per-session rate, which can make ongoing treatment more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions of laser skin resurfacing do I need?
It depends on your skin concerns and the type of laser used. Ablative lasers often deliver significant results in a single session, while non-ablative treatments typically require 3–6 sessions spaced several weeks apart.
What is the recovery time for laser skin resurfacing?
Ablative laser treatments require 1–2 weeks of downtime as the skin heals and peels. Non-ablative treatments have minimal to no downtime, with mild redness that typically resolves within a day or two.
Is laser skin resurfacing painful?
Most patients experience a warm or stinging sensation during treatment. Numbing cream is typically applied beforehand to minimize discomfort. Ablative treatments may require local anesthesia for larger areas.
Disclaimer: All cost estimates are based on industry averages and publicly available data. Actual prices vary by provider, location, and individual procedure complexity. Always consult a licensed dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon for a personalized quote.