Complete Guide to Thulium 1927nm Laser: Benefits, Results, and Safety

Key Takeaways

• The Thulium 1927nm Laser promotes skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime.
• It effectively targets water in the epidermis to enhance healing.
• This laser therapy is ideal for pigmentation issues and improving skin texture.
• Quick recovery times make it a preferable option to traditional ablative lasers.
• Practitioners in the UK increasingly utilise this technology for various skin concerns.

What Is the Thulium 1927nm Laser and How Does It Work?

The Thulium 1927nm laser is a non-ablative fractional resurfacing device designed to treat the uppermost layers of the skin, where most pigmentation, sun damage, and superficial textural changes are located. 

Classified under non-ablative fractional photothermolysis, it creates controlled columns of thermal coagulation (known as microthermal zones) in the epidermis. 

Understanding the 1927nm Wavelength

The 1927nm wavelength is highly specific to water, which is abundant in the epidermis. Compared to deeper-penetrating wavelengths like 1550 nm or CO₂ (10,600 nm), the 1927nm wavelength is absorbed very efficiently in the superficial layers of the skin. 

Because of this selective absorption profile, Thulium laser is used for a wide range of epidermal concerns, including sun damage, melasma, early photoageing, uneven skin tone, and textural roughness.

This makes it ideal for treating conditions that sit within the first 200 microns of the skin, including solar pigment, melasma, uneven tone, and roughness. Because absorption drops rapidly beyond the epidermis, the 1927nm wavelength delivers rejuvenation without unnecessary heat reaching the deeper dermis. 

This selective action is one reason the laser is associated with lower downtime, less discomfort, and reduced risk of pigmentation issues in darker skin types when used with appropriate settings.

How Thulium Laser Targets Water in the Epidermis

Water is the primary target for the 1927nm wavelength. When the laser energy is delivered into the epidermis, the water within the cells absorbs the energy and converts it into controlled thermal injury. This process causes:

• Accelerated exfoliation of damaged pigmented cells. 
• Formation of micro-channels that improve product penetration. 
• Activation of natural healing pathways that repair texture and tone.

Unlike ablative lasers that vaporise tissue, Thulium lasers coagulate tissue, making the process gentler but still highly effective. 

Fractional vs Non-Fractional Thulium Technology

The Thulium 1927nm laser is almost always used in fractional model, where only a percentage of the skin surface is treated in a grid-like pattern. Fractional delivery creates micro-injuries surrounded by healthy tissue, which speeds up healing through rapid epidermal regeneration. Fractional delivery provides:

• Shorter downtime (1–3 days) 
• Lower risk of complications 
• Better suitability for Fitzpatrick IV–VI 
• Ability to gradually build improvement over multiple sessions 

Non-fractional Thulium (rarely used today) would treat the full surface and require significantly more downtime, with higher risks of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Why the 1927nm Laser Is Ideal for the Epidermis Instead of the Dermis

Because the wavelength is absorbed strongly by water in the epidermis, penetration remains superficial, limited primarily to the upper skin layers. This makes Thulium ideal for concerns that live near the surface, including:

• UV-induced pigment 
• Early ageing signs 
• Freckles and sunspots 
• Melasma (when used conservatively) 
• Roughness and dullness 
• Precancerous lesions like actinic keratosis 

This shallow penetration is also where the difference between Fraxel 1550 and 1927 becomes clinically relevant. 

Fraxel 1550nm reaches deeper into the dermis, making it better for scars and deeper wrinkles, while the 1927nm wavelength stays within the epidermis, making it safer and more predictable for pigment-focused treatments. This is also why downtime is significantly lower compared to deeper lasers like 1550nm, Erbium, or CO₂.

Key Benefits of the Thulium 1927nm Laser for Skin Rejuvenation

The Thulium 1927nm laser is revolutionising skin rejuvenation with its remarkable benefits. This innovative technology serves as an effective approach for various skin concerns, especially those related to pigmentation and sun damage. Patients can enjoy a vibrant, youthful appearance with minimal side effects.

Treating Pigmentation, Sun Damage, and Melasma

One of the strongest advantages of the 1927nm wavelength is its precision in lifting epidermal melanin. Most pigmentation issues, such as sunspots, freckles, photodamage, and solar lentigines, sit in the top 100–200 microns of the skin. This is exactly where Thulium energy is absorbed. 

Because of its controlled thermal profile and superior water absorption, the Thulium laser may work better than green light laser (commonly 532nm) for widespread sun damage and epidermal pigmentation. 

This makes the treatment ideal for:

• Sunspots and age spots from chronic UV exposure.
• Freckles and uneven patches of brown pigment.
• Melasma, when performed using low-density, low-energy settings to avoid heat-triggered flare-ups.
• Blotchiness and mottled pigmentation caused by sun damage.
• Actinic keratosis, where the 1927nm wavelength is FDA-cleared for superficial precancerous lesions. 

Patients typically experience mild redness and dryness for a few days, with light flaking possible as pigmentation gradually fades over the following weeks. 

Improving Texture, Tone, and Skin Brightness

Beyond pigment correction, the Thulium laser significantly enhances skin luminosity, texture uniformity, and surface smoothness. The creation of thousands of micro-channels accelerates epidermal turnover, allowing older, photodamaged cells to be replaced more quickly.

This leads to:

• A smoother, softer surface 
• Tighter-looking pores 
• A more uniform tone 
• A noticeable “brightening” effect as fresh skin appears 

The quick turnover also enhances how light reflects off the skin, giving the complexion a healthier, more radiant finish. Because the treatment does not disrupt the deeper dermis, patients achieve visible improvements with very little downtime.

Addressing Early Signs of Ageing

While the 1927nm wavelength does not reach deep wrinkles, it effectively treats early photoaging, especially changes caused by UV exposure. 

The controlled thermal effect stimulates superficial collagen and elastin remodelling, a process that strengthens the upper dermal matrix over time. It works especially well for:

• Fine lines around the eyes, cheeks, and mouth. 
• Early laxity and crepey skin texture. 
• Superficial etched lines from repeated sun exposure. 
• General dullness and loss of vitality. 

Patients describe the skin as looking “plumper” and more refreshed as collagen builds gradually over the following weeks. 

Minimal Downtime Compared to Ablative Lasers

Patients appreciate the minimal downtime associated with the Thulium laser. Unlike traditional ablative lasers that often require extended recovery periods, this option allows individuals to resume their daily activities shortly after treatment. 

The fractional nature of the procedure enables quick healing, relying on the body's natural recovery processes.

• Thulium 1927nm Laser: Offers fractional treatment with minimal downtime of 1–3 days, improves texture and tone while treating sun damage, and heals quickly because untreated skin supports faster recovery.
• Ablative Lasers: Provide more aggressive resurfacing with deeper correction, require significant downtime of up to two weeks, and involve a longer healing process overall.

What Skin Concerns Does the 1927nm Thulium Laser Treat?

The 1927nm Thulium laser is celebrated for its ability to effectively address an array of skin concerns. Its precision in treating pigmentation issues and stimulating cell renewal aids in reducing visible skin imperfections. 

You can expect noticeable improvements in various conditions, including actinic keratosis, along with other common skin blemishes.

Sunspots, Freckles, and UV Damage

Sunspots (solar lentigines), freckles, and uneven pigmentation are primarily caused by chronic sun exposure and UV-induced stimulation of melanocytes. These pigment clusters reside in the very top layers of the skin, the exact target zone of the 1927nm wavelength.

The Thulium laser helps by:

• Breaking up concentrated melanin into smaller fragments 
• Accelerating shedding of damaged, photo-aged cells 
• Creating micro-channels that encourage rapid epidermal renewal 

Within 3–7 days, patients typically see pigment darken (“coffee ground” appearance) before flaking off, revealing clearer, more evenly toned skin. Because the treatment is non-ablative, it is ideal for people who want to treat sun damage without long downtime.

Large Pores and Rough Texture

Although pore size is genetically determined, textural roughness and enlarged-looking pores are often linked to accumulated dead skin, UV damage, and reduced collagen support in the upper dermis.

The Thulium 1927nm laser helps by:

• Stimulating superficial collagen and elastin production.
• Smoothing the upper epidermis where irregular texture builds.
• Tightening pore margins through controlled thermal injury.

This results in:

• A smoother skin surface 
• Finer-looking pores 
• Brighter, more uniform light reflection across the skin 

Texture improvements typically continue to develop over several weeks as new collagen forms.

Actinic Keratosis and Pre-Cancerous Changes

One of the most clinically significant uses of the 1927nm Thulium laser is the treatment of actinic keratosis (AK), a precancerous lesion caused by long-term sun exposure. The 1927nm wavelength is FDA-cleared for this indication, which reinforces its medical credibility.

Benefits for AK include:

• Destruction of atypical keratinocytes through targeted thermal injury.
• Minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Ability to treat large sun-damaged areas (“field treatment”) in one session.

Regular treatments can reduce the number of visible and subclinical AKs, helping lower the long-term risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma.

Melasma and Hard-to-Treat Pigments

Melasma is a chronic pigmentation disorder that often worsens with heat, hormones, and UV exposure. Unlike deeper, more aggressive lasers that may trigger rebound pigmentation, the Thulium 1927nm laser allows for gentle, low-density treatment that targets superficial pigment without excessive thermal stress.

It benefits melasma by:

• Breaking down epidermal pigment clusters.
• Enhancing topical penetration (e.g., tranexamic acid, antioxidants).
• Providing gradual brightening with reduced risk of relapse when performed conservatively.

While melasma typically requires multiple sessions and strict sun avoidance, many patients experience a noticeable improvement in clarity and tone with appropriate protocols.

Is the Thulium 1927nm Laser Safe? Risks, Downtime, and Side Effects

Understanding the safety profile of the Thulium 1927nm laser is essential for anyone considering this treatment. Prioritising laser safety ensures that you are well-informed and prepared for potential outcomes. 

Various factors influence the overall experience, including post-treatment reactions, skin preparation, and individual skin types.

Typical Post-Treatment Reactions

Most reactions are mild, expected, and indicate effective epidermal turnover. These may include:

• Redness (24–48 hours) 
• Mild swelling 
• Warmth or sensitivity similar to a light sunburn 
• “Bronzing” or darkening of pigmented spots as they prepare to shed 
• Light flaking between days 3–5 

These responses are normal and reflect the controlled microthermal zones created during treatment.

Potential Risks When Skin Is Not Prepped Properly

Proper preparation is essential to minimise complications. If pre-care is ignored, risks increase, such as:

• Excessive swelling 
• Blistering 
• Prolonged redness 
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), especially in sun-exposed or darker skin types 

Following practitioner guidelines, especially avoiding active skincare (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs) and sun exposure, significantly reduces these issues.

Safety for Darker Skin Types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)

The Thulium 1927nm laser is considered safer than many deeper resurfacing lasers for melanin-rich skin because its energy is confined to the epidermis and minimises deep heat diffusion. 

When performed by an experienced practitioner using conservative settings, it can treat pigment with a lower risk of PIH. However, safety still depends on:

• Correct density and pulse energy 
• Proper pre-treatment pigment stabilisation 
• Avoiding excessive heat build-up 
• Post-treatment sun protection 

A thorough consultation is essential to personalise the protocol for Fitzpatrick IV–VI.

When Adverse Reactions Require Clinical Attention

While uncommon, some symptoms may indicate complications requiring medical follow-up:

• Severe or worsening swelling after 48 hours 
• Intense or persistent pain 
• Fluid-filled blisters or open skin 
• Redness lasting longer than one week 
• Signs of infection (pus, warmth, fever) 

Early intervention helps prevent long-term issues such as scarring or pigment alteration.

Thulium 1927nm Laser vs Other Lasers (Fraxel, Pico, CO₂, Erbium)

When exploring your options for laser treatments, understanding the distinctions between the Thulium 1927nm laser and other technologies such as Fraxel Dual, Pico lasers, and CO₂ or Erbium lasers is crucial.

Each laser offers unique benefits tailored to various skin concerns, with Thulium being particularly effective for superficial skin issues while ensuring comfort and minimal downtime.

• Thulium 1927nm: A non-ablative fractional laser targeting the epidermis (100–200 microns) that brightens sun damage and superficial pigment with mild texture improvement, minimal discomfort, low–moderate PIH risk, and only 1–3 days of downtime.
• Fraxel Dual (1550nm + 1927nm): A dual-wavelength fractional system that treats both epidermal and deeper dermal layers to improve wrinkles, scars, and pigment with moderate discomfort, 3–7 days of downtime, and cautious suitability for melasma.
• Pico Laser: A photoacoustic, non-thermal device using ultra-short pulses to shatter pigment at multiple depths, ideal for tattoos, deep pigment, and stubborn PIH with minimal downtime and mild–moderate discomfort.
• CO₂ / Erbium Resurfacing: A fully ablative treatment that vaporises tissue for significant resurfacing of deep wrinkles, acne scars, and severe photodamage, requiring high anaesthesia, 7–14+ days of downtime, and carrying a high PIH risk for darker skin.

Thulium 1927nm vs Fraxel Dual

The Thulium 1927nm laser is often compared with the Fraxel Dual system due to their fractional technologies. 

While both can treat pigmentation, the Thulium laser targets the epidermis efficiently with less discomfort. 

Patients seeking solutions for early signs of ageing may find Thulium more appealing because of its quicker recovery times and effective results on minor pigmentation.

Thulium 1927nm vs Pico Laser

The Thulium 1927nm laser stands out when evaluated against the Pico laser. 

The Pico laser excels at addressing deeper pigments and tattoo removal, utilising a different mechanism that delivers rapid pulses of energy. 

For surface-level concerns such as sun damage and textural issues, Thulium offers a more suited approach with minimal risk of side effects.

Thulium 1927nm vs CO₂ / Erbium Resurfacing

Comparing Thulium 1927nm to CO₂ and Erbium resurfacing lasers shows significant differences in treatment depth and recovery. 

CO₂ lasers penetrate deeper, making them effective for severe scars and extensive resurfacing. 

Thulium prioritises comfort and quicker healing, making it appropriate for patients looking to treat early skin imperfections without prolonged downtime.

When Thulium 1927nm Performs Best Compared to Alternatives

Thulium 1927nm performs exceptionally well when treating superficial skin conditions, particularly pigmentation and early signs of ageing. 

For individuals prioritising minimal recovery time and desiring gradual improvements, this laser is an optimal choice. 

In contrast, if significant texture changes or deep scars are your main concerns, exploring other options may be beneficial.

What to Expect During a Thulium 1927nm Laser Session

Knowing what happens during a Thulium 1927nm laser appointment helps set clear expectations and ensures you feel fully prepared for the experience. 

Each step, from the consultation to the final aftercare instructions, is designed to make your treatment safe, comfortable, and effective.

Consultation and Skin Preparation

Your session begins with a thorough consultation. A qualified practitioner will assess your skin type, pigmentation depth, medical history, and areas of concern. This evaluation determines whether the 1927nm wavelength is the right choice for your goals and whether any adjustments are needed for your skin type, especially if you fall under Fitzpatrick IV–VI.

Based on this assessment, you may receive pre-treatment instructions such as:

• Avoiding retinoids, exfoliating acids, or benzoyl peroxide for 3–7 days. 
• Staying out of direct sun exposure and tanning beds for 2–4 weeks. 
• Discontinuing photosensitising skincare temporarily. 
• Ensuring your skin barrier is calm and well-hydrated. 

Proper preparation reduces the risk of irritation and helps the laser work more predictably.

Step-by-Step Treatment Process

Once your skin is prepped, the treatment itself usually takes 20–40 minutes, depending on the size of the area.

The process typically includes:

1. Cleansing the skin to remove sunscreen, oils, or makeup. 
2. Application of numbing cream for 20–30 minutes to maximise comfort. 
3. Delivery of fractional 1927nm energy in a uniform pattern across the skin. 
4. Feeling a warm, prickling sensation as the laser creates precise micro-channels in the epidermis. 
5. Cooling or soothing products applied immediately after the final pass. 

Patients commonly describe the sensation as warm or mildly stinging but very tolerable with topical anaesthesia.

Pain Level and Comfort Options

The Thulium 1927nm laser is considered one of the gentler resurfacing options. Most patients report low pain level, largely due to:

• Topical anaesthetic 
• Built-in cooling from the device 
• Cold air blowers used throughout the session 
• Soothing masks applied post-treatment 

Heat or tingling may persist for several hours afterward, resembling a mild sunburn.

Treatment Duration and Time in Clinic

A full appointment generally takes 60–75 minutes, including:

• Consultation or review (if needed): 10–15 minutes 
• Numbing time: 20–30 minutes 
• Laser treatment: 20–40 minutes 
• Aftercare explanation: 5–10 minutes 

This efficient structure allows most people to schedule the treatment during a lunch break or afternoon without major disruption.

Thulium 1927nm Laser Aftercare: Recovery Timeline and Best Practices

After undergoing Thulium laser treatment, proper aftercare is essential for optimising results and ensuring a smooth recovery. By knowing the recovery timeline of thulium, employing an effective skincare routine, and adhering to recovery guidelines significantly impacts the outcome of your treatment.

Day-by-Day Healing Expectations

• Day 1: Skin feels warm, flushed, or tight, similar to a light sunburn. Mild swelling may be present.
• Days 2–3: Bronzing or darkening of pigmentation appears as damaged cells prepare to shed. The skin may feel dry or slightly rough.
• Days 3–5: Light peeling or “coffee-ground flaking” occurs. Most people feel comfortable wearing makeup at this stage.
• Days 5–7: Redness fades, skin smooths out, and brightness becomes more noticeable. 
• End of Week 1: The majority of healing is complete, although deeper brightening and textural improvements continue over the next several weeks. 

Products to Avoid and Recommended Products

To protect your skin barrier during recovery:

Avoid for 10–14 days:

• Retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, retinal) 
• AHA/BHA acids 
• Enzyme exfoliants 
• Vitamin C (may sting if used too early) 
• Physical scrubs 
• Fragranced products 

Recommended products:

• Gentle, pH-balanced cleanser 
• Hydrating serums (hyaluronic acid) 
• Barrier-repair moisturisers (ceramides, squalane) 
• Fragrance-free formulations 
• Mineral sunscreen SPF 30–50 

Hydration and protection are the foundation of good healing.

How to Minimise the Risk of Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a risk for all skin tones but more common in Fitzpatrick IV–VI. To reduce the likelihood:

• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks. 
• Apply SPF 30–50 daily; reapply outdoors. 
• Wear hats or UPF-rated clothing. 
• Avoid sweating heavily in saunas, steam rooms, or hard workouts (can trigger inflammation). 
• Do not pick or scratch flaking skin. 

Your practitioner may also recommend pigment-stabilising products (niacinamide, azelaic acid, TXA) once healing begins.

When You Can Resume Makeup, Exercise, and Sun Exposure

• Makeup: Usually safe after 48–72 hours, depending on how quickly redness settles. 
• Exercise: Avoid for 5–7 days, as heat and sweat can irritate newly treated skin. 
• Sun Exposure: Minimise for 4 weeks and use mineral sunscreen daily. 
• Active Skincare: Return to retinoids and acids after 10–14 days, once peeling is fully resolved. 

Following these guidelines ensures you maintain your results and avoid unwanted pigment changes.

Expected Results and How Long They Last

Evaluating the outcomes from Thulium laser treatments can help manage expectations effectively. Patients generally observe initial Thulium laser results within a week to ten days following their procedure. As the skin continues to heal, improvements may persist for several weeks, revealing clearer and more rejuvenated skin.

When You’ll See Visible Improvements

Most patients begin noticing visible improvements between days 7 and 10 as the bronzing and flaking phase resolves. Early changes typically include:

• A brighter, more even skin tone 
• Reduction in visible sunspots and freckles 
• Smoother skin texture 
• Smaller-looking pores 
• A healthier, more radiant surface glow 

These results continue to evolve over the next 3–6 weeks, as fresh epidermal cells emerge and superficial collagen stimulation strengthens the upper dermal layer.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

The number of thulium laser sessions varies depending on your individual skin condition, treatment goals, and doctor’s recommendation. The figures below are general estimates, and your practitioner will tailor a plan based on your skin’s response and overall needs.

• Pigmentation & sun damage: 2–4 sessions.
• Melasma: 3–6 conservative sessions.
• Texture & pore size: 2–3 sessions.
• Actinic keratosis: 1–2 sessions (but “field therapy” may require repeat work).
• General glow/maintenance: 1–2 sessions per year.

While many patients notice visible improvement after just one session, a series of treatments typically delivers more consistent, longer-lasting rejuvenation results.

Maintenance and Long-Term Skin Health

Because the Thulium laser improves the epidermis, results can last 6–10 months, depending on lifestyle and sun exposure. To maintain your skin’s clarity and brightness:

• Schedule maintenance treatments every 3–6 months.
• Use high-SPF daily sun protection. 
• Maintain a pigment-stabilising skincare routine (niacinamide, azelaic acid, TXA). 
• Avoid tanning or unprotected UV exposure. 

Regular maintenance prevents pigment from returning and keeps the skin’s surface smooth and luminous.

When Results Plateau and What Happens Next

After several sessions, you may reach a point where improvements become more gradual. This plateau usually means:

• The superficial concerns have been corrected. 
• Further dramatic changes would require deeper resurfacing (e.g., CO₂ or Erbium).
• Your skin has transitioned from “corrective” to “maintenance” phase.

At this stage, your practitioner may adjust your plan by:

• Reducing session frequency.
• Adding other modalities (Pico, RF microneedling, 1550nm Fraxel, chemical peels).
• Targeting deeper issues separately.

The goal shifts from transformation to preservation of results.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for the 1927nm Thulium Laser?

The 1927nm Thulium laser offers a variety of benefits, making it suitable for a diverse range of individuals. This section outlines who can maximise the advantages of this rejuvenating technology.

Suitable Skin Types and Conditions

You are likely a good candidate if you have:

• Sun damage (sunspots, freckles, uneven tone) 
• Early signs of ageing (fine lines, dullness, rough texture) 
• Large pores or mild textural issues 
• Mild to moderate melasma 
• Actinic keratosis (FDA-cleared indication) 
• Pigmentation that sits mainly in the epidermis
• Sensitive skin that cannot tolerate stronger ablative lasers but still needs effective resurfacing 

Skin types Fitzpatrick I–IV typically respond extremely well. Fitzpatrick V–VI can also be treated safely with conservative settings and experienced providers.

Who Should Avoid or Delay Treatment

The Thulium laser may not be suitable, if you have:

• Active skin infection (viral, bacterial, fungal). 
• Open wounds, eczema flare-ups, or dermatitis. 
• Recent sunburn or tanning. 
• History of keloids (caution advised). 
• Use of photosensitising medications. 
• Recent use of strong retinoids or exfoliants without proper washout period.

Those with very deep wrinkles, severe texture, or deep scars may benefit more from CO₂/Erbium resurfacing or Fraxel 1550nm.

When Combination Treatments Are Recommended

Combination therapy is often recommended when multiple skin layers or concerns are involved. For example:

• Thulium + Pico: for mixed-depth pigmentation (melasma + PIH + sunspots) 
• Thulium + RF microneedling: for texture, fine lines, and collagen stimulation 
• Thulium + 1550nm Fraxel: for dual treatment of pigment + deeper wrinkles 
• Thulium + chemical peels: for long-term pigment control 
• Thulium + topical tranexamic acid: improves melasma outcomes 

A layered approach ensures that both the epidermis and deeper dermal structures are addressed appropriately.

Who Gets Better Results With Thulium Than With Pico or CO₂?

Thulium is the superior option when:

• The pigment is superficial and caused by UV exposure.
• You want fast recovery (1–3 days rather than 7–14 days).
• You need full-face brightening or “field rejuvenation”.
• You want to treat delicate areas (neck, chest, hands) where CO₂ is too aggressive.
• Your melasma is mild and needs gentle heat-based correction.

Compared to Pico, Thulium is better for surface glow, tone blending, and large-area resurfacing. Against CO₂, Thulium is better for patients who want rejuvenation without dramatic downtime.

Cost of the Thulium 1927nm Laser and What Influences Pricing

The cost of a Thulium 1927nm laser session can vary widely, typically influenced by several key elements. Understanding these can help you plan your budget while ensuring you receive the best possible treatment. 

Generally, the average price per session can fluctuate based on the clinic's location and the specific treatment requirements tailored to your skin concerns. 

You can expect a range that reflects the complex nature of individual needs and the technologies employed.

Average Price per Session

Across most UK and major global clinics, the cost of a Thulium 1927nm laser session typically falls within the following ranges:

• Small areas (cheeks, forehead, hands): £250–£450 per session 
• Full face: £450–£900 per session 
• Face + neck or décolletage: £650–£1,200 per session 
• Full-field rejuvenation packages (3 sessions): £1,200–£2,400 

Prices tend to be higher in London, large metropolitan areas, and dermatology-led clinics where advanced devices such as Fraxel Dual, LaseMD, or Clear + Brilliant Permea are used.

While lower-cost providers exist, paying slightly more for a qualified medical practitioner and modern, FDA-cleared equipment significantly reduces risks such as burns, hyperpigmentation, or inconsistent results.

Note: Prices are approximate ranges and can vary by clinic, device, and individual treatment needs. A consultation is required for an accurate quote and personalised plan.

Factors That Increase or Decrease Cost

The final cost of your Thulium laser session is influenced by several key elements:

1. Size of Treatment Area

Larger areas require more laser passes and time, increasing the overall cost. Examples:

• Small spot treatment → lower cost 
• Full face + neck → higher cost 

2. Severity of Skin Concerns

More complex concerns require additional energy passes or multiple sessions. Higher cost is expected for:

• Extensive sun damage 
• Melasma requiring conservative multi-session protocols 
• Actinic keratosis “field treatment” 

3. Clinic Location & Reputation

Clinics in major cities charge more due to higher operating costs and demand. Dermatology or consultant-led clinics may charge premium fees, but they also offer safer and more predictable outcomes.

4. Practitioner Expertise

Experienced practitioners trained in treating melasma, darker skin tones (Fitz IV–VI), or actinic keratosis may charge more due to specialist skills.

5. Device Type

Costs vary depending on whether the clinic uses:

• Fraxel Dual (1927nm setting): typically higher cost 
• LaseMD Ultra / Lutronic Thulium 1927nm: mid to high 
• Clear + Brilliant Permea (milder 1927nm): lower cost 

Higher-power devices allow for stronger correction and faster results.

6. Number of Sessions Required

Pigmentation and melasma often need multiple sessions. Clinics may offer:

• Buy-3-get-1 packages 
• Maintenance pricing 
• Annual membership deals 

Packages usually reduce the per-session rate.

7. Add-On Procedures

Some clinics combine Thulium with:

• LED light therapy 
• Cooling masks 
• Post-laser serums (growth factors, hyaluronic acid) 
• Pico laser 
• RF microneedling 

These can increase costs by £30–£150 depending on the add-on.

8. Seasonal or Promotional Pricing

Many clinics offer discounted rates during quiet seasons (January–February) or aesthetic event months.

Why Pricing Varies So Much

The Thulium 1927nm wavelength is used for both cosmetic brightening and medical indications like actinic keratosis. Because of this broad application:

• Mild “glow” treatments cost less 
• Medical-grade resurfacing or melasma protocols cost more 
• Combination therapies raise the overall price 
• Maintenance care may be recommended long-term 

Investing in an experienced provider ensures safer treatment, especially for melanin-rich skin, melasma-prone patients, or those needing precise energy control to avoid hyperpigmentation.

Before You Go

Before choosing any laser treatment, it’s important to understand that results depend not only on the technology itself, but also on the skill of the practitioner, the quality of pre- and post-care, and your long-term commitment to skin maintenance. 

The Thulium 1927nm laser is one of the most effective and clinically trusted options for superficial pigmentation, early signs of ageing, and overall brightening, but it works best when combined with the right skincare routine, sun protection habits, and a personalised treatment plan.

If you’re considering this procedure, take the time to discuss your goals, medical history, and skin type with an experienced provider. A tailored approach is essential, especially for pigmentation-prone or melanin-rich skin. With the right guidance, the Thulium laser can deliver significant, long-lasting improvements in tone, clarity, and texture while keeping downtime to a minimum.

About IMP

The Institute of Medical Physics (IMP) is recognised for its evidence-based approach to dermatology, laser physics, and advanced skin rejuvenation therapies. IMP focuses on bridging scientific research with practical clinical application, ensuring treatments like the Thulium 1927nm laser are used safely and effectively across different skin types.

Drawing on decades of research in light–tissue interaction, IMP clinicians emphasise precise energy control, wavelength-specific protocols, and personalised treatment planning to minimise risk and enhance results. Every procedure is performed using medical-grade devices supported by peer-reviewed data and FDA-cleared standards.

Book an appointment to experience IMP’s commitment to patient safety, scientific accuracy, and exceptional outcomes. Whether addressing pigmentation, early ageing, or complex concerns such as melasma or actinic keratosis, IMP remains a trusted destination for modern laser dermatology.