Pigmentation Treatment in Seoul: Laser Care for Dark Spots, Melasma and Uneven Tone
Dark spots, melasma and post‑acne marks each respond to different lasers and settings. A dermatologist identifies the pigment type and depth first, then builds a safe plan that avoids rebound darkening.
What is the best treatment for pigmentation?
The best pigmentation treatment depends on the type: Q‑switched or pico laser for sun spots, gentle low‑energy laser toning plus topical and oral care for melasma, and toning with strict sun protection for post‑inflammatory marks. Spots may clear in 1–2 sessions; melasma needs a course of 5–10 gentle sessions and maintenance.
Types of pigmentation
Which pigmentation do you have?
Correct diagnosis prevents treatments that make pigment worse.
Sun spots (lentigines)
Well‑defined brown spots; see brown spots.
Melasma
Hormone‑ and sun‑driven patches; see melasma treatment.
Freckles
Small spots that darken in summer; respond well to laser.
Post‑inflammatory marks
Brown marks after acne or injury; fade with toning.
Hori’s naevus / ABNOM
Deeper blue‑grey patches needing a series of Q‑switched sessions.
Dark circles
Pigment‑type dark circles; see dark circles.
How it works
Targeting pigment without triggering more
Pigment lasers deliver energy absorbed by melanin, breaking it into tiny particles that the body clears. For melasma, gentle low‑energy settings over many sessions are safer than aggressive treatment.
- Session 1: diagnosis with magnification and first treatment
- Weeks 1–2: treated spots darken then flake
- Sessions 2–5: tone becomes more even
- Maintenance: sunscreen and periodic toning
Pricing
How much does pigmentation treatment cost in Korea?
Costs depend on the pigment type and number of sessions.
| Treatment | Typical price range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Laser toning (whole face) | ₩120,000 – ₩250,000 per session |
| IPL | ₩150,000 – ₩300,000 |
| Fractional laser | ₩200,000 – ₩400,000 |
| Q‑switched laser (spot treatment) | ₩30,000 – ₩70,000 per spot |
| Melasma package (3–5 sessions) | ₩400,000 – ₩900,000 |
| Add‑on brightening ampoules or PRP | ₩50,000 – ₩150,000 |
Guide ranges only. Your plan and quote are confirmed after an in‑person assessment.
What to expect
Your pigmentation plan, step by step
-
Diagnosis
Pigment type and depth assessed under magnification.
-
Plan
Laser type, energy and session count chosen.
-
Treatment
10–20 minutes; numbing for spot lasers.
-
Aftercare
Strict sunscreen and gentle skincare.
Who is a good candidate?
- Sun spots and freckles
- Melasma under medical supervision
- Post‑acne or post‑inflammatory marks
- Uneven, dull skin tone
Safety & side effects
- Aggressive laser can worsen melasma
- Temporary darkening or redness after spot laser
- Avoid tanning before and after treatment
- Pregnancy: treatment is postponed
Sun protection is essential to keep results.
Compare
Pico toning vs. Q‑switched (Spectra) laser
Both treat pigment; the choice depends on type and skin.
| Pico toning | Q‑switched toning | |
|---|---|---|
| Pulse | Picosecond | Nanosecond |
| Best for | Stubborn spots, tone | Melasma, general toning |
| Downtime | Minimal | None |
| Sessions | Fewer on average | 5–10 course |
Your dermatologist
Dr. SangYoul Yun
Chief Director · Korean Board‑Certified Dermatologist · AAD International Fellow (IFAAD)
Dr. Yun diagnoses the pigment type before choosing settings, prioritising safe, gradual improvement for melasma‑prone and Asian skin. 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
Pigmentation Treatment: frequently asked questions
How many sessions do I need?
Spots 1–2; melasma and toning 5–10.
Can I have treatment on a short trip to Seoul?
Yes, spot laser and toning can be done in a single visit.
Will pigmentation come back?
It can without sunscreen; melasma needs maintenance.
Is laser safe for darker skin?
Yes with appropriate settings.
Is there downtime?
Toning has none; spot laser leaves small scabs for about a week.
What is the difference from melasma treatment?
Melasma is one type of pigmentation; see melasma.
Book your pigmentation consultation in Gangnam
Send a make‑up‑free photo in daylight for an initial plan.