Skin Laser and Intense Pulsed Light Treatments

At Welbeck, your laser procedure will be performed as an outpatient treatment using one of our state-of-the-art systems — the Stellar M22 or Ultra Pulse laser.

When you arrive, your consultant dermatologist will explain your treatment in detail and answer any questions you may have. Most procedures do not require an anaesthetic, but in some cases, a topical anaesthetic cream may be applied about 45 minutes before treatment. In rarer instances, a local anaesthetic injection may be used.

You’ll be asked to lie down on a procedure bed, and a cooling gel may be applied to the treatment area. When you’re ready, you’ll be given protective goggles, and your treatment will begin. Your consultant will gently place the laser handpiece against the skin, delivering controlled pulses of light energy to the targeted area. This is often described as feeling like a light elastic band flick on the skin. Your dermatologist may adjust the strength of the treatment depending on your skin’s response.

Most sessions take just a few minutes, although this can vary depending on the size and location of the treatment area. Once the procedure is complete, you may be given an ice pack to ease any mild discomfort, and you’ll be able to go home as soon as you feel ready.

Laser and IPL treatments are often carried out as a course of sessions to achieve the best results. Your dermatologist will design a personalised treatment plan based on your skin type, condition, and goals. Most people need between 3 and 6 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to allow the skin time to heal and regenerate between treatments.

After each session, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to review your progress and discuss any changes in your skin. As treatment continues, you can expect gradual, visible improvement — with your complexion becoming smoother, clearer, and more evenly toned.

The risks associated with laser treatment are rare and can usually be successfully managed with help from your consultant. 

Risks include: 

• bruising

• pigmentation change

• swelling

• skin infections 

• scarring

At your initial consultation, your consultant will guide you on how to best prepare for your laser treatment. This typically includes avoiding sun exposure and tanning for at least 4 weeks, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen. We’ll review any medications or skin products you’re using (such as retinoids) that you may need to pause. 

On the day of the procedure, wear comfortable clothing and come with clean, lotion-free skin in the treatment area.

After laser treatment, the skin is often red and may be swollen. This tends to settle in a few hours for milder treatments but may take longer for deeper resurfacing procedures. You may be given ice packs to use for a few minutes after treatment or given creams to apply for a few days afterwards at home. 

You’ll receive tailored aftercare instructions to follow once you leave, which will include information on gentle cleansing, sun protection, avoiding hot baths or saunas, and when to apply any soothing creams. 

Your consultant will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the outcome and decide if further sessions are needed.

The cost of laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments at Welbeck varies depending on the size and area being treated, typically ranging from £100 to £800 per session. Your consultant dermatologist’s fee is charged separately and usually starts from £350 to £395, though this may be higher for more complex procedures.

Before any treatment begins, we’ll provide you with clear and transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect. For a detailed quote or to discuss costs specific to your treatment plan, please contact our team at the Skin Health centre.

At Welbeck, our dermatologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a skin laser and intense pulsed light treatments, you must be referred by either your GP or a dermatologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.