How Much Does Laser Acne Scar Removal Cost? A Guide to Prices and Insurance Coverage

Laser skin resurfacing is one of the most popular and effective treatments for facial acne scars. It involves using concentrated light energy to mildly damage the scarred skin and stimulate its healing process. There are more than a dozen laser varieties in use, so dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons can tailor a treatment plan to meet your skin’s particular needs. 

Bear in mind, though, that laser acne scar removal is a cosmetic procedure. That means the cost isn’t covered by health insurance and you’ll almost certainly be paying out of pocket. Let’s take a look at how much laser acne scar removal can cost and what factors can affect the price. 

How much does laser acne scar removal usually cost?

Laser acne scar removal generally carries a four-figure price tag, but the cost can vary widely. 

• Among board-certified cosmetic surgeons, the overall price of skin resurfacing can range from $1,650 to $3,420. 

• Plastic surgeons in 2020 charged an average fee of $2,509 for ablative laser skin resurfacing (which removes the top layer of skin) and $1,445 for non-ablative laser treatments (which heat up tissue below the surface). 

• Dermatologists’ average cost can range from $400 to $2,500 per session. 

• At a spa or salon, prices will be lower but you probably won’t be treated by a doctor who’s trained in laser use. This means the results may not be as good and you could experience more side effects.

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What can affect the cost of laser acne treatment?

The cost of laser acne treatment depends on the specific procedure and who’s performing it, as discussed above. But various other details also affect the price. These additional factors include: 

• The type of laser being used: Many different lasers may be used to treat acne. Certain lasers may be more expensive — generally newer ones and ones that treat the skin more deeply. 

• The number of sessions: Laser treatment is usually priced per session, though you may be able to get a discount if you pay upfront for a series. 

• The size of the area being treated: Having laser treatment on one cheek, for example, will cost less than having your entire upper back treated. 

• Whether the scars have extra pigmentation: Areas that are darker or redder may need additional, or different, treatment depending on the laser.

• The depth of the scars: Deeper scars, such as the atrophic icepick type, are harder to treat. 

• Your natural skin tone: People with darker skin may need more treatments when certain lasers are used. This is because having more sessions at a lower strength can decrease the chance of side effects, which can be more common in darker skin.  

• Whether your laser treatment is combined with another method of treatment: Combination treatment can be very effective but will cost more. One common add-on is injectable fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane. Fillers are likely to add at least $600 to your total. 

• Geographic location: The cost of skin resurfacing can differ depending on where you live, so it may be worth shopping around if that’s practical for you. 

How many laser sessions does it take to remove acne scars?

On average, people usually need two to five treatments. But how many sessions you’ll need depends on your particular set of scars and what type of laser is used. 

For example, if your scarring is very mild, you may only need one or two sessions to really see good results. Some lasers, like the stronger ablative lasers, may only need to be used once. The tradeoff is that these lasers usually require you to have more down time afterwards and can have greater side effects. When multiple sessions are needed, they are usually spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. 

Is acne laser treatment covered by insurance?

As a cosmetic procedure, laser treatment for acne scars typically isn’t covered by health insurance. This rule also applies to any follow-up care. So if something goes wrong with your laser acne scar treatment and you need additional medical attention, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for that as well.

Do lasers permanently remove acne scars?

Yes, in general laser acne scar treatment is permanent. But lasers don’t actually remove the old scars. They just make the scars less noticeable. 

Keep in mind that everyone’s response to treatment is different. The outcome also depends on the skill and experience of the person giving the treatment. This is why it’s wise to go to a healthcare provider who is trained in lasers, like a board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. 

For best results, it’s preferable to have your acne under control before you get laser treatment. This prevents you from getting new acne scars after treating the old ones. 

Alternatives to laser acne scar removal

If lasers aren’t an option, there are some other treatments that can help with your acne scars, and they may be less expensive. However, depending on the severity and type of acne scars you have, these treatments also may not be as effective as lasers. 

Other options for acne scars:

• Fillers injected in the skin (such as Juvederm) can range in price from $600 to over $1,000.

• Chemical peels (like alpha-hydroxy acids) can cost about $400.

• Microneedling can cost $300 or more.

• Surgery to help remove or fill acne scars costs $200 or more.

• Microdermabrasion costs about $150.

• Retinoid creams (like tretinoin) can be priced as low as $10. 

• Steroid injections (for scars that are bumpy, called keloids) may be covered by insurance.

Consulting with a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon can help you find the best treatment plan. 

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Written by:

Caren Weiner, MSIS

Caren Weiner, MSIS, began her personal finance journalism career in 1986. She worked as a reporter for Money magazine and co-wrote its book-length “Guide to the 1986 Tax Reform Act.” From the beginning, she immersed herself in data on mutual fund total returns and marginal tax rates.

Reviewed by:

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who has practiced dermatology and dermatopathology for over 10 years across private practice, academic, and telehealth settings. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology.

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