A semiconductor laser (1) is provided that includes a semiconductor layer sequence in which an active zone for generating laser radiation is located. A ridge waveguide is formed as an elevation from the semiconductor layer sequence. An electrical contact layer is located directly on the ridge waveguide. A metallic electrical connection region is located directly on the contact layer and is configured for external electrical connection of the semiconductor laser. A metallic breakage coating extends directly to facets of the semiconductor layer sequence and is arranged on the ridge waveguide. The breakage coating is electrically functionless and includes comprises a lower speed of sound for a breaking wave than the semiconductor layer sequence in the region of the ridge waveguide.