A Complete Guide for International Patients
Acne treatment in Korea is highly sought after by international patients because of its comprehensive, personalized approach, advanced technologies, and high standards of skincare science. Korean dermatology clinics combine medical evaluation, topical and oral therapies, lasers, and other modalities to treat active acne, reduce inflammation, minimize scarring, and improve overall skin health.
This page provides a clinic-neutral overview of acne treatment costs in Korea, pricing factors, safety standards, and what international patients should expect.
What Is Acne Treatment?
Acne treatment refers to a range of procedures and therapies used to manage and improve acne vulgaris (commonly called acne), including:
- Clinical skin evaluation
- Medical topical and oral prescriptions
- Professional extractive procedures
- Laser and light-based therapies
- Chemical peels
- Microneedling or RF microneedling (for scarring)
- Maintenance skincare guidance
The goal is to reduce active breakouts, prevent future inflammation, and minimize acne scarring or pigmentation.
Average Acne Treatment Cost in Korea
Acne management often involves multiple steps or sessions. For international patients, average costs in Korea generally fall into the following ranges:
- Initial dermatologist consultation:
₩50,000 – ₩120,000 KRW
(approximately USD $40 – $95) - Topical/oral prescription regimen:
₩20,000 – ₩100,000 KRW per month
(approx. USD $15 – $75) - Chemical peel (salicylic / mandelic / glycolic):
₩80,000 – ₩250,000 KRW per session
(approx. USD $60 – $190) - Laser/Light therapies (IPL / Pico / Vascular):
₩120,000 – ₩450,000 KRW per session
(approx. USD $90 – $345) - Microneedling / RF microneedling:
₩250,000 – ₩700,000 KRW per session
(approx. USD $190 – $530) - Extraction and manual procedures:
₩30,000 – ₩150,000 KRW per session
(approx. USD $23 – $115)
This usually includes:
- Pre-treatment skin assessment
- Individualized treatment session
- Post-treatment care guidance
Overall cost depends on the severity of acne, combination of modalities used, and number of sessions. Korean acne treatment plans are often tailored rather than one-size-fits-all.
What Affects the Price?
Acne treatment costs in Korea can vary based on several factors:
- Severity of acne
Mild acne may require simple topical therapy, while moderate-to-severe cases may need combined laser/light and medical treatments. - Treatment modalities selected
Combination plans (e.g., peels + laser + prescription) have higher overall costs. - Number of sessions
Some treatments are one-off while others require a series. - Practitioner expertise
Dermatologists with extensive acne experience may charge higher fees. - Clinic location
Clinics in premium areas like Gangnam, Cheongdam, or Apgujeong often have higher pricing.
Is Acne Treatment Safe in Korea?
Yes — reputable Korean clinics follow strict medical and hygiene standards. Protocols often include:
- Licensed dermatologists or experienced medical professionals
- Proper acne assessment and diagnosis
- Customized treatment plans
- Medical-grade laser/light devices
- Sterile extraction procedures
International patients often choose Korea for its medical oversight, advanced techniques, and strong follow-up support.
Pain, Downtime & Healing
Pain level:
Varies by modality — mild for peels/light therapy, mild to moderate for microneedling
Procedure time:
~15–60 minutes (depends on treatment)
Downtime:
Minimal to mild
Common side effects:
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary dryness or flaking
- Slight tenderness after deeper treatments
Most patients resume normal activities immediately or within a day, depending on modality.
How Many Sessions Are Recommended?
Acne treatment often works best with a series of sessions:
- Chemical peels: 4–8 sessions (spaced 1–2 weeks)
- Laser/light therapies: 4–10 sessions (spaced 1–3 weeks)
- Microneedling / RF microneedling: 3–6 sessions (spaced 3–6 weeks)
Prescription regimens are usually ongoing and monitored by dermatologists.
Acne Treatment vs. Homecare
- Clinical acne treatment:
- Medical evaluation and diagnosis
- Professional procedures and energy-based therapies
- Faster reduction in inflammation and scarring
- Homecare over-the-counter:
- Mild exfoliation or spot treatments
- Limited effect on moderate-to-severe acne
Professional acne programs often deliver faster, more measurable improvement
with medical oversight.
Why International Patients Choose Korea
- Comprehensive acne protocols by dermatologists
- Advanced laser/light modalities for stubborn acne
- Tailored, step-by-step plans
- Competitive pricing compared with Western countries
- Follow-up care and maintenance support
Important Tips for International Visitors
- Schedule initial consultation first to tailor your plan
- Allow several weeks for cumulative improvement
- Stick to dermatologist-recommended skincare between visits
- Avoid intense sun exposure before and after treatments
Summary: Acne Treatment Cost in Korea
- Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩120,000 KRW
- Topical/oral regimen: ₩20,000 – ₩100,000 KRW per month
- Chemical peels: ₩80,000 – ₩250,000 KRW per session
- Laser/light therapies: ₩120,000 – ₩450,000 KRW per session
- Microneedling: ₩250,000 – ₩700,000 KRW per session
- Extraction: ₩30,000 – ₩150,000 KRW per session
Acne treatment in Korea is a safe, effective, and highly refined option for international patients seeking professional medical care and clearer, healthier skin.











