A semiconductor laser includes: an active layer formed of a II-VI group compound semiconductor material; a first cladding layer and a second cladding layer disposed so as to put the active layer therebetween; a light confinement layer provided on the second cladding layer, having an opening for current flow and formed of ZnMgSSe; and a third cladding layer provided at the opening of the light confinement layer. The light confinement layer has high resistivity or has a conductivity type opposite to that of the third cladding layer; the second and third cladding layers are formed of ZnMgSSe; and a Mg content and a S content of the light confinement layer are larger than a Mg content and a S content of the second and third cladding layers.