Allergy Testing in Seoul: Patch, Prick and Blood Tests for Skin Allergies
Recurring rashes, hives or itching often have a trigger that can be identified. A dermatologist chooses the right test — patch, skin prick or blood IgE — based on your symptoms and explains the results in English.
Which allergy test do I need?
Patch testing identifies delayed contact allergies that cause dermatitis, while skin prick and blood IgE tests identify immediate allergies that cause hives, hay fever or food reactions. The right test depends on your symptoms, so a consultation comes first.
Test types
Allergy tests we use
Each test answers a different question.
Patch test
Finds contact allergens such as nickel, fragrance and hair dye; see contact dermatitis.
Skin prick test
Checks immediate allergies to dust mites, pollen, pets and some foods.
Specific IgE blood test
Useful when skin testing is not possible or antihistamines cannot be stopped.
Hives and rashes
Testing guided by history; see allergy rashes.
Hay fever rash
Seasonal skin flares; see hay fever rash.
Eczema
Selected patients benefit from testing; see eczema.
How it works
How patch testing works
Small amounts of common allergens are applied to the back under patches. The skin is checked at 48 hours and again at 72–96 hours, because contact allergy develops slowly.
- Day 1: patches applied
- Day 3: patches removed, first reading
- Day 4–5: final reading and explanation
- After: written list of allergens to avoid
Pricing
How much does allergy testing cost in Korea?
The total depends on which tests you need.
| Test | Typical price range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Skin prick test (10–40 allergens) | ₩80,000 – ₩200,000 |
| Patch test (contact dermatitis) | ₩100,000 – ₩250,000 |
| Blood test (IgE antibody panel) | ₩100,000 – ₩250,000 |
| RAST or ImmunoCAP (specific IgE) | ₩150,000 – ₩300,000 |
| Dermatologist consultation | ₩20,000 – ₩50,000 |
Guide ranges only. Your plan and quote are confirmed after an in‑person assessment.
What to expect
Your allergy testing, step by step
-
Consultation
Dr. Yun reviews symptoms and chooses the right test.
-
Preparation
Stop antihistamines and avoid creams on the test area.
-
Testing
Patches, prick tests or blood draw.
-
Results
Clear explanation and an avoidance and treatment plan.
Who should get tested?
- Recurring rash in the same place
- Reactions to cosmetics, hair dye or metals
- Hives without a clear cause
- Hand dermatitis linked to work
Before and during testing
- Stop oral antihistamines several days before prick tests
- Keep patches dry; avoid exercise and showers
- Do not test on sunburned or flaring skin
- Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty or swelling
Test results are interpreted together with your history.
Compare
Patch test vs. prick test
They detect different types of allergy.
| Patch test | Prick test | |
|---|---|---|
| Allergy type | Delayed (type IV) | Immediate (IgE) |
| Typical symptoms | Contact dermatitis | Hives, hay fever |
| Time | 4–5 days | About 30 minutes |
| Visits | 3 | 1 |
Your dermatologist
Dr. SangYoul Yun
Chief Director · Korean Board‑Certified Dermatologist · AAD International Fellow (IFAAD)
Dr. Yun chooses tests based on your history rather than broad panels, so results are meaningful and lead to a clear plan. Consultations are available in English.
Delight Dermatology Clinic · Registered foreign‑patient medical institution (KHIDI M‑2024‑01‑08‑8248) · 4F, Building B, 509 Gangnam‑daero, Seocho‑gu, Seoul · +82 2‑517‑9991 · About our clinic
FAQ
Allergy Test: frequently asked questions
Can I do a patch test on a short trip to Seoul?
Yes, if you can attend three visits over 4–5 days.
Do I need to stop medication?
Antihistamines should be stopped before prick tests; ask about others.
Is allergy testing painful?
Prick tests feel like light scratches; patch tests are painless.
How accurate are blood tests?
Useful, but positive results must match your symptoms.
Can children be tested?
Yes, with tests chosen for their age.
What happens after a positive result?
You receive a list of products to avoid and a treatment plan.
Book an allergy test in Gangnam
Tell us your symptoms and travel dates so we can schedule the right test.