Is Thulium Laser Better Than Green Light Laser? A Complete Comparison

Key Takeaways

• The thulium laser offers unique benefits for BPH treatment.
• The green light laser is renowned for its effectiveness in vascular treatments.
• Both lasers have shown promising results in clinical studies.
• Understanding each laser's mechanism can help inform your treatment choice.
• Consulting with a practitioner can ensure the best device for your specific condition.

Understanding Thulium Laser vs Green Light Laser: The Basics

When exploring laser treatment options, it’s important to understand how each technology interacts with the skin. Different laser systems behave uniquely based on their wavelength, absorption profile, and depth of effect, which directly influences treatment outcomes and recovery.

Both thulium and green light lasers operate at distinct wavelengths, rely on different chromophores, and achieve their own set of clinical benefits, making it essential to match the right device to the specific skin concern.

How the Thulium 1927nm Wavelength Works

The Thulium laser’s 1927nm wavelength is designed to target the skin’s upper layers with remarkable precision. Its strong absorption in water-rich tissue allows it to treat superficial concerns effectively while keeping unnecessary heat to a minimum. Why the wavelength is effective:

• Highly absorbed by water in the epidermis.
• Targets superficial tissue with controlled precision.
• Minimises thermal damage to surrounding structures.
• Ideal for pigmentation, rough texture, dullness, and early sun damage.

This precise interaction creates a predictable pattern of micro-injury that supports steady, controlled skin renewal. How it renews the skin:

• Forms consistent micro-channels in the epidermis.
• Removes a thin layer of damaged cells with each pass.
• Preserves surrounding healthy tissue to speed healing.
• Produces smooth, predictable recovery with shorter downtime.

These mechanisms are the reason thulium systems are trusted for repeatable, stable results in cosmetic dermatology. Why it delivers reliable outcomes:

• Generates evenly distributed micro-injuries for controlled exfoliation.
• Gradually lifts superficial pigment and refines texture.
• Stimulates regeneration without overwhelming the skin barrier.
• Improves tone, brightness, and surface quality even in non-ablative modes.

Overall, the 1927nm thulium wavelength offers a balanced way to resurface the skin gently yet effectively, making it a preferred tool for treating early photodamage and visible surface irregularities.

How Green Light (532nm) Laser Works

The Green Light laser emits a 532 nm wavelength that is strongly absorbed by oxyhemoglobin, allowing precise targeting of superficial blood vessels. 

When the energy is absorbed, hemoglobin converts it into heat, causing controlled coagulation and gradual collapse of the vessel while leaving surrounding tissue largely unaffected.

Because this wavelength penetrates only the upper layers of the skin, it is highly effective for facial redness, broken capillaries, telangiectasia, and certain superficial pigmentation issues. 

The strong vascular selectivity produces predictable clearing with minimal downtime, though caution is required in darker Fitzpatrick skin types due to higher melanin absorption.

Key Differences in Depth, Absorption & Targets

Different laser wavelengths interact with tissue in their own distinct ways, which is why the thulium laser and the green light laser deliver very different outcomes in dermatology. Their absorption profiles directly influence treatment depth, precision, tissue effects, and overall clinical performance.

Below is a clear comparison of how the 1927 nm thulium laser differs from the 532 nm green light laser in clinical use.

Thulium Laser (1927 nm)

• Primary absorption: Mainly absorbed by water
• Depth of penetration: Reaches deeper tissue layers
• Dermatology targets: Resurfacing, texture improvement, deeper pigmentation issues
• Effect in surgical settings: Provides precise cutting and deeper removal of obstructive tissue
• Impact on recovery and bleeding: Predictable healing with stable tissue interaction
• Why it differs: Deeper absorption supports structural correction and tissue remodeling

Green Light Laser (532 nm)

• Primary absorption: Strongly absorbed by hemoglobin
• Depth of penetration: Acts superficially near the skin surface
• Dermatology targets: Redness, broken vessels, superficial pigmentation
• Effect in surgical settings: Delivers strong hemostasis and efficient tissue vaporization
• Impact on recovery and bleeding: Reduced bleeding and often a shorter hospital stay
• Why it differs: Superficial absorption focuses on vascular or surface level concerns

Why These Lasers Target Different Skin Concerns

Each wavelength interacts with different chromophores, which is why thulium and green light lasers are used for distinct concerns. The thulium 1927 nm laser is absorbed by water, making it highly effective for improving skin texture, treating sun damage, and supporting collagen renewal through controlled resurfacing.

The green light 532 nm laser targets hemoglobin, making it ideal for vascular issues such as redness, broken vessels, and superficial pigmentation. Its superficial action allows precise treatment with minimal collateral effect.

Selecting the right laser ultimately depends on the target tissue, required depth, and the patient’s specific cosmetic or medical goals.

What the Thulium Laser Is Best Used For

The thulium laser is widely recognised for its versatility in dermatology, offering predictable results for pigmentation concerns, texture irregularities, and sun-damaged skin. 

Its precision comes from thulium fiber laser technology, which is designed to interact with water-rich tissue at controlled depths. 

Pigmentation (Sunspots, Freckles, Melasma)

For pigmentation concerns such as sunspots, freckles, and melasma, the thulium 1927nm laser offers a highly precise and superficial approach. Its wavelength selectively breaks down excess melanin in the epidermis while protecting the surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of inflammation, rebound pigmentation, or unnecessary trauma.

This targeted precision is what makes the treatment so effective for a wide range of pigment-related concerns. By working at the exact depth where most pigmentation sits, the thulium laser delivers gradual, predictable clearing and a more even, brighter complexion with minimal downtime.

Skin Texture, Tone & Brightness

Patients seeking smoother texture, improved tone, and brighter skin benefit significantly from thulium laser treatments. The controlled thermal micro-injury stimulates collagen production and encourages renewal of the epidermis, leading to progressively smoother, more radiant skin.

Clinically, this precise interaction with the superficial skin layers supports predictable healing and reduces the risk of unintended thermal damage. Because the energy remains concentrated near the epidermis, patients experience visible improvement with less downtime compared to deeper, more aggressive resurfacing options.

Many individuals also report sustained enhancement in clarity, texture, and pigmentation for several months after treatment, reinforcing the reliability of the thulium wavelength in aesthetic dermatology.

Actinic Keratosis & Epidermal Rejuvenation

Actinic keratoses, caused by chronic sun exposure, respond exceptionally well to thulium laser therapy. By gently ablating the damaged epidermal layer, the treatment promotes the growth of healthier skin and supports long-term rejuvenation. 

This approach offers a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional excision-based methods. Because the thulium laser targets only the uppermost layers, it offers a safer, less invasive alternative to methods like cryotherapy or surgical removal. 

Patients typically experience a quicker, more predictable recovery, along with broader cosmetic benefits such as improved texture, clarity, and overall skin quality.

When Thulium Outperforms Pigment Lasers Like Pico

While Pico lasers are excellent for targeting deeper or dermal pigmentation, the thulium 1927nm laser can outperform them when treating superficial pigment, early sun damage, and overall texture concerns. 

Because it works directly in the epidermis, where most sunspots, freckles, and uneven tone sit, thulium often produces clearer, more uniform brightening with less risk of over-treating the skin.

Thulium also provides an added advantage in texture refinement. Its fractional micro-channels smooth roughness, tighten pores, and enhance radiance in a way Pico cannot, making it especially effective for younger skin types, first-time laser patients, or those seeking subtle rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

What the Green Light Laser Is Best Used For

The green light laser, operating at a wavelength of 532 nm, is widely recognised as an effective and safe option for treating vascular and superficial pigment concerns in dermatology. 

Its strong absorption by hemoglobin makes it highly precise, allowing clinicians to address redness, capillary dilation, and uneven pigmentation with minimal downtime. 

Vascular Lesions (Redness, Veins, Capillaries)

The green light laser excels at treating vascular lesions such as facial redness, visible veins, and broken capillaries. Its selective targeting of blood-rich structures allows practitioners to shrink dilated vessels without damaging the surrounding tissue. 

Patients typically notice clearer skin, reduced flushing, and a more even tone after treatment. Because the wavelength acts so precisely on vascular targets, downtime is minimal, and results tend to be predictable across a wide range of redness-related concerns.

Superficial Pigment & Selective Spot Removal

Green light technology is highly effective for treating superficial pigment concerns such as sunspots, isolated freckles, and small areas of discoloration. Its wavelength selectively targets melanin while sparing surrounding tissue, allowing precise spot treatment without unnecessary heat spread.

Because the 532 nm beam is so targeted, it’s especially useful for patients who want gentle but clearly visible improvement. The laser lifts pigment in a controlled way, helping fade isolated spots and even-out tone while keeping recovery short and the skin barrier protected.

Acne Redness & Diffuse Redness Correction

For individuals struggling with acne-related redness or diffuse facial erythema, the green light laser provides a highly targeted, non-invasive solution.

By selectively heating hemoglobin, it reduces vascular inflammation and enhances overall skin uniformity. This helps diminish persistent red marks and promotes a more balanced complexion.

Why Green Light Is Often the First Choice for Rosacea

For rosacea, the green light laser is often considered a first-line option because of its strong results in reducing persistent redness, flushing, and visible capillaries. Its 532 nm wavelength selectively targets superficial blood vessels, shrinking them without harming surrounding skin. 

Patients frequently notice less sensitivity, calmer skin, and a more even tone after just a few sessions.

The treatment’s gentle, highly specific vascular targeting makes it a dependable choice for managing chronic redness. It helps restore uniformity and reduces flare-ups, offering a level of precision and comfort that’s especially beneficial for rosacea-prone skin.

Is Thulium Laser Better Than Green Light Laser? (Direct Comparison)

When comparing Thulium and Green Light lasers, the question isn’t about which device is universally “better,” but rather which one is better for your specific skin concern. Each laser offers distinct advantages based on absorption properties, depth of penetration, and the type of chromophore they target. 

A direct comparison reveals how these technologies complement each other and why practitioners often recommend one over the other depending on the condition being treated.

Which Laser Is Better for Pigmentation

For pigmentation issues, including sunspots, melasma, and deeper discoloration, the Thulium laser generally delivers more substantial results. Its 1927 nm wavelength penetrates deeper into the epidermis, allowing it to break apart discoloration that lies beyond the superficial layers.

This deeper reach makes Thulium especially valuable for stubborn or recurrent pigmentation that would not fully respond to lighter treatments. 

Green Light lasers, on the other hand, can effectively treat superficial pigment but do not target deeper pigment reservoirs as efficiently. 

This makes them suitable for mild discoloration but not first-line for more complex pigmentary conditions. If your goal is thorough, long-lasting pigment correction, Thulium is typically the more effective choice.

Which Laser Is Better for Redness & Vascular Issues

For redness, flushing, broken capillaries, and vascular lesions, the Green Light laser is overwhelmingly the preferred option. Its 532 nm wavelength is selectively absorbed by hemoglobin, making it extremely effective in collapsing small vessels and reducing visible redness.

This laser consistently outperforms Thulium in vascular cases because Thulium does not specifically target blood vessels. If your primary concern includes rosacea, spider veins, or persistent facial redness, the green light effectiveness makes it the stronger and more predictable treatment choice.

Which Laser Is Better for Overall Skin Rejuvenation

Both lasers contribute to skin rejuvenation, but they work in different ways. 

The Thulium laser is best for resurfacing, improving texture, smoothing fine lines, and brightening uneven tone through deeper collagen stimulation. 

The Green Light laser focuses on colour correction, reducing redness, broken capillaries, and mild textural issues linked to vascular inflammation.

Because each laser targets a different layer of skin concerns, combining them often delivers the most balanced results. A blended approach may allow providers to treat pigment, redness, and texture together, creating clearer, smoother, and more radiant skin with longer-lasting improvement.

When Neither Laser Alone Is Enough

Some skin concerns involve multiple layers of damage, such as pigmentation combined with vascular issues, or texture changes accompanied by redness. In these cases, relying on a single laser often produces incomplete results.

A customised plan that integrates both Thulium and Green Light lasers can:

• Target pigment at various depths
• Reduce redness and vascular visibility
• Improve skin texture and luminosity
• Deliver more harmonious, blended outcomes

This multi-layered approach may be helpful for patients with complex needs, mixed skin types, or more advanced photoaging. When used together, both lasers might complement each other’s strengths and offer a more noticeable or longer-lasting rejuvenation outcome. 

However, patients should always consult with their doctor before pursuing any combination treatment.

Safety Comparison: Thulium vs Green Light Laser

The safety of thulium lasers and Green Light lasers varies considerably due to differences in wavelength, chromophore targeting, and tissue response. These variations influence potential side effects, downtime, suitability for darker skin tones, and overall treatment risk.

Side Effects & Downtime Differences

While both lasers are medically approved and effective when used correctly, they differ substantially in downtime and side-effect profile. 

Thulium 1927nm Laser

• The device works through fractional, non-ablative resurfacing, creating controlled microchannels while keeping surrounding tissue intact. This approach limits injury and keeps inflammation low. 
• It supports collagen remodeling and pigment correction without overwhelming the skin barrier. Because the energy stays superficial, the skin recovers more predictably. 
• Most patients experience mild redness, slight swelling, and temporary dryness, which resolve quickly. These reactions usually settle within 2–3 days, making downtime minimal. 

Green Light 532nm Laser

• This wavelength produces stronger superficial heat because melanin absorbs 532nm very efficiently. As a result, the skin’s initial response can be more intense. 
• Patients often see visible redness, swelling, and mild crusting during the healing phase. These effects tend to last 5–7 days or longer, depending on sensitivity. 
• Individuals with higher Fitzpatrick skin types may have a greater chance of PIH or uneven tone if aftercare is neglected. Proper post-treatment care becomes essential to reduce pigment-related complications. 

Overall Comparison

• Thulium generally offers a faster, gentler recovery with fewer heat-related reactions.
• Green Light treatments may require longer downtime and stricter aftercare to maintain an even tone and prevent PIH. 

Safety for Darker Skin Types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)

For individuals with medium-to-dark complexions, laser choice is especially critical. 

Thulium Laser Safety for Medium-to-Dark Skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)

Thulium lasers are generally considered a safer option for individuals with medium-to-dark complexions because the 1927 nm wavelength bypasses the melanin-dense basal layers of the epidermis. 

By primarily targeting water in the superficial tissue, they minimise unwanted pigment stimulation while still delivering rejuvenation and pigment-correcting benefits. 

This makes thulium a suitable choice for Fitzpatrick IV–VI when parameters are selected carefully and proper aftercare is followed.

Green Light Laser Considerations for Medium-to-Dark Skin (532 nm)

Green light lasers require greater caution in darker skin types because the 532 nm wavelength is strongly absorbed by melanin. 

This increases the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or textural changes if settings are too aggressive or not tailored to the skin phototype. 

To reduce risk, practitioners often adjust fluence, pulse duration, and spot size, perform test spots, or choose alternative wavelengths better suited for melanin-rich skin. Expertise in darker skin safety remains essential when using green-light systems.

Risks When Used Incorrectly

All laser devices carry inherent risks if used outside proper clinical parameters. 

Risks With Thulium Lasers

• Incorrect energy settings or insufficient cooling can cause burns or prolonged redness. 
• Textural changes may occur if treatment goes deeper than intended. 
• Overlooked skin conditions like eczema or rosacea can increase sensitivity. 

Risks With Green Light Lasers

• Higher sensitivity when treating vascular or pigmented lesions. 
• Misuse may lead to blistering, extended inflammation, or rebound pigmentation. 
• Darker skin types may require extra caution.

How to Reduce These Risks

• Proper pre-treatment assessment and patch testing. 
• Practitioners should be trained and certified in laser safety. 
• Choosing the correct laser and parameters based on skin type and history. 

When Green Light May Trigger Hyperpigmentation

Green light lasers can trigger hyperpigmentation primarily because they generate significant superficial heat during treatment. This excess heat can overstimulate melanocyte activity, especially in patients with medium to darker skin tones, causing the skin to produce more pigment than usual. 

As a result, treated areas may develop prolonged redness, lingering inflammation, or visible dark patches as the skin heals.

The risk increases when the device is used with overly high energy settings, insufficient cooling, or rapid passes that do not allow the skin to dissipate heat. Even mild irritation can spiral into post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in sensitive skin types. 

In some cases, improper technique may lead to blistering or surface injury, both of which further contribute to unwanted pigmentation changes.

Because the green wavelength is strongly absorbed by melanin, practitioners must carefully adjust parameters, assess skin type accurately, and ensure proper aftercare, such as strict sun protection,  to minimize pigmentation flare-ups and ensure a safer healing process.

Treatment Experience: Thulium Laser vs Green Light Laser

When comparing Thulium and Green Light laser treatments, patient experience involves more than results, it includes comfort, pain, session length, and recovery.

Both lasers rejuvenate the skin but through different mechanisms. Thulium targets water molecules for controlled resurfacing and collagen renewal, while Green Light focuses on oxyhemoglobin and melanin to treat redness, vascular concerns, and pigmentation.

Comfort Level & Pain Differences

Treatment comfort varies depending on laser energy, penetration depth, and individual skin sensitivity.

Treatment Comfort With Thulium Lasers (1927 nm)

Thulium treatments are generally well-tolerated, producing a mild sensation of warmth or tingling as the wavelength targets water in the superficial layers without reaching deeper nerve structures. Most clinics apply a topical anaesthetic to enhance comfort, making the overall experience gentle and manageable for most patients.

Treatment Comfort With Green Light Lasers (532 nm)

Green Light laser treatments may feel sharper, often described as brief snapping or pinprick sensations, especially when treating vascular or pigmented areas. Because the 532 nm wavelength strongly interacts with melanin and blood vessels, it can require higher energy levels, resulting in slightly greater discomfort. 

Cooling systems and numbing agents are typically used to reduce sensitivity during the procedure.

Overall, Thulium lasers offer a softer, more comfortable experience, while Green Light lasers may produce stronger sensations but can deliver rapid improvements in redness and vascular issues.

Session Duration & Number of Sessions Needed

Treatment comfort varies based on the laser’s energy level, depth of penetration, and individual skin sensitivity. 

Treatment Comfort With Thulium Lasers (1927 nm)

Thulium laser treatments are generally well-tolerated because they target water molecules in the superficial layers without affecting deeper nerve structures. 

Most patients describe the sensation as mild warmth or light tingling. To improve comfort further, clinics typically apply a topical anaesthetic before treatment, keeping the overall experience gentle and manageable.

Treatment Sensation With Green Light Lasers (532 nm)

Green Light laser treatments tend to feel sharper, often described as snapping or pinprick sensations, especially when used over vascular or heavily pigmented areas. 

Because the 532 nm wavelength is strongly absorbed by melanin and blood vessels, it sometimes requires higher energy levels, which can increase sensitivity. Cooling devices and numbing agents are routinely used to minimise discomfort during the session.

Overall, Thulium lasers offer a softer, more comfortable treatment experience, while Green Light lasers may produce stronger sensations but can provide quicker improvements for vascular and redness-related concerns.

Expected Results Timeline

The outcomes of 1927 nm thulium and Green Light lasers appear on different timelines because they target different layers of the skin. Thulium works deeper within the epidermis, promoting gradual exfoliation and long-term collagen stimulation. Green Light laser focuses on surface redness and pigmentation, allowing faster visible recovery.

To help you compare these timelines more clearly, the following points summarises the key differences.

Thulium Laser

• Onset of effects: Mild dryness or peeling within 1–3 days
• Early visible results: Noticeable improvement in tone and texture by days 5–7
• Peak improvement: Continues over 2–3 months due to collagen renewal
• Depth of results: Deeper rejuvenation with long term structural benefits
• Best for: Texture refinement, pore reduction, deeper pigmentation

Green Light Laser

• Onset of effects: Reduced redness and pigmentation within a few days
• Early visible results: Clearer, brighter skin visible within the first week
• Peak improvement: Achieved within 1–2 weeks as inflammation settles
• Depth of results: Surface level clarity and pigment reduction
• Best for: Redness, superficial pigmentation, quick recovery

How Quickly Redness/Pigment Clears After Each Laser

Redness and pigment clearance differ because each laser affects the skin differently. 

Redness and Pigment Clearance After Thulium Laser (1927 nm)

After a Thulium session, mild warmth and redness are expected and typically last three to five days before settling. Pigmented spots may temporarily darken as part of the renewal process and then shed gradually over the following days, leading to clearer and more even-toned skin. 

This slightly longer recovery reflects the Thulium laser’s deeper resurfacing effect on superficial pigmentation.

Redness and Pigment Clearance After Green Light Laser (532 nm)

Green Light laser recovery is generally quicker. Redness usually fades within two to three days, and many patients notice early brightness within the first week as superficial pigmentation breaks down. Because this wavelength acts more selectively on pigmentation and vascular targets, visible improvement often appears sooner with shorter downtime.

Knowing these differences helps set realistic expectations: Green Light tends to offer faster visible recovery, while Thulium provides deeper pigment resurfacing with a slightly longer healing period.

Cost Comparison: Thulium Laser vs Green Light Laser

When selecting between Thulium and Green Light laser treatments, understanding the cost differences and long-term value is essential. While both treatments can deliver excellent skin results, their technology, target depth, and treatment objectives influence pricing. 

Thulium treatments are often seen as an investment in skin rejuvenation and structural improvement, while Green Light treatments cater to targeted pigment or vascular correction at a more accessible price point.

The following sections explore session pricing, technology-driven cost variations, and how each laser translates into value for long-term skin health.

Note: Prices mentioned here are indicative estimates of UK averages, and are subject to change based on clinic location, treatment requirements, practitioner experience, among other factors. Always confirm the pricing of the treatment with your nearest clinic.

Average Pricing Per Session

The average cost per session depends on factors such as clinic location, practitioner expertise, treatment area, and session duration.

Average Pricing for Thulium Laser Treatments (1927 nm)

Thulium laser sessions typically range from £300 to £700 per session, depending on clinic location, practitioner expertise, and the size of the treatment area. 

Full-face rejuvenation or advanced pigmentation correction sits at the higher end, while smaller, localised areas cost less. Clinics with board-certified dermatologists or advanced fractional systems may charge more due to higher precision, safety standards, and device quality. 

Although the upfront cost is higher, Thulium often requires fewer sessions and provides longer-lasting results.

Average Pricing for Green Light Laser Treatments (532 nm)

Green Light laser treatments are generally more affordable, averaging £150 to £400 per session. They are well-suited for focused concerns such as vascular lesions, broken capillaries, or small pigmentation spots, making them a popular option for quick, targeted corrections. 

However, these results may be shorter-lived and require more frequent sessions, which can reduce cost efficiency over time. Pricing varies by region and practitioner, so consulting a licensed provider using medical-grade equipment is recommended for an accurate quote and safe treatment outcomes.

Why Thulium Treatments Typically Cost More

Thulium laser treatments are generally priced higher due to the advanced technology, precision, and expertise required for safe operation.

The Thulium wavelength (around 1927–1940 nm) is absorbed by water molecules in the epidermis, promoting controlled fractional resurfacing that stimulates collagen renewal without significant downtime. 

This technology allows dermatologists to treat multiple skin concerns, including fine lines, enlarged pores, melasma, sun damage, and texture irregularities, in a single procedure.

Because the system is non-ablative yet deeply rejuvenating, it demands higher capital investment and ongoing maintenance from clinics. Additionally, practitioners require specialised training and calibration experience to balance energy output for optimal outcomes and minimal complications.

These technological and clinical factors combine to justify the premium pricing of Thulium treatments. In essence, patients pay for greater precision, safety, and long-term rejuvenation, not just a single cosmetic improvement.

Value for Long-Term Skin Health

While Thulium laser sessions carry a higher initial cost, they often deliver superior long-term value through extended results and fewer required treatments.

Long-Term Value of Thulium Laser Treatments (1927 nm)

Thulium laser sessions may cost more upfront, but they often deliver superior long-term value because the results last longer and fewer treatments are needed. By promoting ongoing collagen production and dermal regeneration, Thulium can provide visible improvements for months or even years after a treatment course. 

This reduces the need for frequent touch-ups and helps lower overall skincare costs over time. Thulium also supports deeper skin health by improving elasticity, texture, and resilience, addressing not only surface pigmentation but recurring issues like dullness, roughness, and sun damage.

Long-Term Value of Green Light Laser Treatments (532 nm)

Green Light treatments are more affordable per session and provide quick, targeted improvements, but their effects are typically more surface-level. Because vascular and pigment-related concerns often recur, patients may require periodic repeat sessions to maintain results. 

While effective for fast corrections, Green Light generally offers less preventative value compared to Thulium. For patients focused on sustained skin vitality and long-lasting rejuvenation, Thulium tends to be the more worthwhile long-term investment.

When a Cheaper Treatment Becomes More Expensive Over Time

Choosing a cheaper option can increase long-term costs. Green Light sessions are less expensive but fade faster, meaning more frequent maintenance visits. Since they treat only surface redness and pigment, many patients eventually switch to Thulium for deeper, longer-lasting results, raising the overall spend. 

Thulium costs more upfront but usually requires fewer sessions and offers longer durability. The brief comparison below summarises the key cost and value differences between both lasers: 

Thulium Laser

• Cost per session: £300–£700
• Sessions needed: 3–5
• Longevity: 6–18 months
• Best for: Deeper pigmentation, texture improvement, collagen stimulation
• Value: Higher upfront cost with better long-term results

Green Light Laser

• Cost per session: £150–£400
• Sessions needed: 2–4 with maintenance
• Longevity: 3–6 months
• Best for: Redness and superficial pigmentation
• Value: Lower upfront cost with higher ongoing upkeep

Which Laser Should You Choose for Your Skin Concerns?

Selecting the right laser treatment depends on your skin type, primary concern, and long-term goals. Both Thulium and Green Light lasers are effective, but they target different issues and work at varying skin depths. Understanding what each laser does best, and when to combine them, helps you make a more informed and results-driven decision.

Choosing Based on Pigment vs Redness

The Thulium laser is the preferred option for addressing pigmentation-related concerns such as sun damage, melasma, uneven tone, and age spots. 

What the Thulium Laser Treats (1927–1940 nm)

The Thulium laser is the preferred choice for pigmentation-related concerns such as sun damage, melasma, uneven tone, and age spots. 

Its 1927–1940 nm wavelength penetrates the upper layers of the skin to gently resurface and renew, improving brightness and texture over time.

What the Green Light Laser Treats (532 nm)

The Green Light laser is ideal for vascular and redness-related conditions, including rosacea, broken capillaries, spider veins, and general facial flushing. 

The 532 nm wavelength selectively targets oxyhemoglobin in blood vessels, reducing visible redness and enhancing overall complexion clarity.

When Combination Laser Treatments Are Better

Combination laser therapy works well for patients with mixed concerns such as redness, pigmentation, and texture issues. A practitioner may use the Green Light laser first to calm vascular inflammation, then follow with a Thulium laser to brighten pigmentation and smooth the skin. 

This layered approach may offer faster, more balanced results with manageable downtime. However, patients should consult with their doctor before pursuing any combination treatment to confirm it is safe and appropriate for their skin.

It is particularly useful for photoaged skin, rosacea with pigment irregularities, and individuals seeking broader rejuvenation in fewer sessions.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Each Treatment

Each laser has specific contraindications based on skin type, medical history, and lifestyle factors. 

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Thulium Laser Treatments (1927–1940 nm)

Thulium lasers should be used with caution on sensitive or compromised skin. They may not be suitable for individuals with active acne, open wounds, eczema, or recent sunburn, as these conditions can increase the risk of irritation or delayed healing. 

People with very sensitive skin barriers may experience temporary increases in redness, dryness, or irritation after treatment, making Thulium less ideal until the skin is stabilised.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Green Light Laser Treatments (532 nm)

Green Light laser is generally not recommended for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) because its strong absorption by melanin increases the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 

It should also be avoided on recently tanned skin or if the patient is taking photosensitising medications, both of which heighten sensitivity to light-based treatments and increase risk.

When a Practitioner’s Experience Matters More Than Device Type

While choosing the right laser is important, the expertise of your practitioner often has a greater impact on results and safety than the device itself. Skilled clinicians know how to adjust wavelength, fluence, and pulse duration to match your skin’s specific needs, minimising risks like burns or pigmentation shifts.

An experienced provider, like the practitioners at the Institute of Medical Physics, will also understand when to combine or sequence treatments, apply proper cooling techniques, and recommend customised aftercare protocols for faster recovery.

Ultimately, even the most advanced laser technology can underperform in untrained hands, which is why patients should prioritise qualified, experienced professionals with a strong track record in both Thulium and vascular laser systems.

Before You Go…

Whether you’re considering Thulium laser treatment or Green Light laser procedure, it’s essential to consult a qualified and experienced provider who can tailor the procedure to your specific needs, skin type, and goals. 

Both technologies have proven value across medical and aesthetic fields, from advanced skin rejuvenation to precise surgical applications, but your safety and results depend greatly on professional expertise.

Taking the time to undergo a proper consultation and skin assessment ensures that the selected laser and settings align perfectly with your condition. 

About the Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics (IMP) is a leading authority in evidence-based aesthetic and medical laser treatments. Our team specialises in advanced laser technologies, including Thulium, Green Light, CO₂, Erbium YAG, and Pico laser systems, supported by continuous research and clinical precision.

IMP’s approach integrates medical-grade equipment, rigorous safety standards, and practitioner expertise to deliver tailored treatments for every skin type and concern. Each procedure is backed by clinical insight and a commitment to scientific accuracy, patient safety, and natural-looking results.

Book a consultation with Dr. Emanuel Paleco and his expert team at the Institute of Medical Physics. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and start your journey towards rejuvenation.