Acne Scar Treatment in Korea: Complete Guide to Types, Treatments & Prices 2025

Acne scars can be one of the most frustrating skin concerns—they linger long after acne has cleared, serving as unwelcome reminders of past breakouts. If you're considering treating acne scars in Korea, you're making a smart choice. Korean dermatology clinics are world-leaders in scar treatment technology, offering advanced procedures at competitive prices with impressive results.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about acne scar treatment in Korea: understanding your scar type, available treatment options, realistic pricing, what to expect from procedures, and how to choose the right treatment plan for your specific scars.

Quick Overview:

• Scar Types: Ice-pick (deep, narrow), Boxcar (broad, angular), Rolling (wave-like)
• Main Treatments: Fraxel laser, Pico laser, Subcision, CO2 laser, TCA CROSS
• Average Costs: ₩147,000 ($113 USD) per Fraxel session, ₩100,000-₩300,000 ($77-$231) per treatment
• Sessions Needed: 3-10+ treatments depending on severity
• Results Timeline: 3-12 months for noticeable improvement
• Best For: Moderate to severe acne scars (mild scars may not justify cost/downtime)

Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD (January 2025)

Understanding Acne Scar Types

Before choosing treatment, you need to identify your scar type. Most people have a combination of multiple scar types, which is why Korean dermatologists typically use combination therapy rather than single treatments.

1. Ice-Pick Scars (아이스픽 흉터)

Appearance: Deep, narrow holes that look like skin was punctured with an ice pick

Characteristics:

• Small surface opening (1-2mm diameter)
• Extends deep into dermis
• V-shaped or narrow columnar structure
• Most common on cheeks and forehead

Why They're Difficult:

• Narrow opening makes laser penetration challenging
• Depth requires aggressive treatment
• Least responsive to surface treatments
• Often require targeted punch techniques or TCA CROSS

Best Treatments:

• TCA CROSS (chemical reconstruction)
• Punch excision or elevation
• Subcision combined with filler
• Fractional CO2 laser (aggressive settings)

Severity Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Most difficult to treat

2. Boxcar Scars (박스카 흉터)

Appearance: Broad, angular depressions with well-defined edges

Characteristics:

• Wider than ice-pick scars (1.5-4mm)
• Sharply defined vertical edges (like a box)
• Flat or slightly sloped bottom
• Various depths (shallow, medium, deep)
• Common on cheeks and temples

Depth Categories:

• Shallow (<0.5mm): Respond well to laser resurfacing
• Medium (0.5-1mm): Need combination treatments
• Deep (>1mm): May require surgical intervention

Best Treatments:

• Fraxel or fractional CO2 laser (shallow to medium)
• Subcision (medium to deep)
• Dermal fillers (temporary volume)
• TCA CROSS (deep scars)
• Punch elevation (very deep scars)

Severity Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Moderately difficult, responds to combination therapy

3. Rolling Scars (롤링형 흉터)

Appearance: Wave-like, undulating depressions with sloped edges

Characteristics:

• Wide, shallow depressions (4-5mm+)
• Rounded, sloping edges (not sharp)
• Caused by fibrous bands pulling skin downward
• Skin appears uneven, wavy texture
• Most common on cheeks and jawline

Why They Form: Chronic inflammation creates fibrous bands beneath skin that tether dermis to deeper structures, pulling surface downward and creating rolling appearance.

Best Treatments:

• Subcision (gold standard—cuts fibrous bands)
• Fraxel/fractional laser (improves texture)
• Dermal fillers (semi-permanent volume)
• Radiofrequency microneedling (Potenza, Scarlet)
• Rejuran or skin boosters (collagen stimulation)

Severity Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Most responsive to treatment, best outcomes

How to Identify Your Scar Type

Self-Assessment:

1. Stretch skin gently: If scars disappear, they're rolling scars. If they remain, they're ice-pick or boxcar.
2. Check edges: Sharp, defined edges = boxcar. Sloped edges = rolling. Tiny holes = ice-pick.
3. Measure width: <2mm = ice-pick, 2-4mm = boxcar, >4mm = rolling.

Professional Assessment: Korean dermatologists use specialized lighting and magnification to accurately classify scars and create customized treatment plans. This consultation is crucial—never skip it.

Treatment Options: Comprehensive Breakdown

Korean clinics offer multiple advanced treatments. Here's what each does, who it's best for, and realistic pricing.

1. Fraxel Laser (프락셀 레이저)

What It Is: Fractional laser that creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones

How It Works:

• Laser creates controlled micro-injuries
• Removes damaged tissue in columns
• Stimulates collagen production and skin remodeling
• New skin gradually fills in scars

Best For:

• Shallow to medium boxcar scars
• Rolling scars (texture improvement)
• Overall skin texture and tone
• Combination treatment with other procedures

Not Ideal For:

• Deep ice-pick scars (won't penetrate deep enough)
• Very deep boxcar scars (need more aggressive treatment)

Pricing (2025):

• Average: ₩147,661 ($114 USD) per session
• Range: ₩16,100-₩500,000 ($12-$385 USD)
• Realistic mid-range: ₩100,000-₩250,000 ($77-$192 USD)

Sessions Needed: 3-5 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart

Downtime: 3-7 days (redness, peeling, sensitivity)

Pain Level: 5-7/10 (with numbing cream)

Results: 20-40% improvement in shallow scars, 10-20% in deeper scars

2. Pico Laser / Pico Fraxel (피코레이저)

What It Is: Ultra-short pulse laser (picosecond technology)

How It Works:

• Delivers energy in trillionths of a second
• Shatters pigment and stimulates collagen without heat damage
• Less thermal injury = less downtime than traditional Fraxel

Best For:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
• Shallow scarring with pigmentation
• Patients who can't afford downtime
• Combination with other scar treatments

Pricing:

• Starting from: ₩79,000 ($61 USD) per session
• Average: ₩150,000-₩300,000 ($115-$231 USD)
• Premium clinics: Up to ₩500,000 ($385 USD)

Sessions Needed: 5-8 sessions, 3-4 weeks apart

Downtime: 1-3 days (minimal compared to Fraxel)

Pain Level: 3-5/10

Results: Excellent for pigmentation, moderate for texture improvement

Advantage: Less aggressive than CO2, more comfortable, faster recovery

3. Subcision (서브시전)

What It Is: Surgical technique using specialized needle to release fibrous bands

How It Works:

• Doctor inserts needle beneath scar
• Moves needle back and forth to cut fibrous tethers
• Released skin rises to normal level
• Creates controlled bleeding → collagen formation → scar elevation

Best For:

• Rolling scars (most effective treatment)
• Tethered boxcar scars
• Any scar with underlying fibrous bands

Not Effective For:

• Ice-pick scars (different structure)
• Very shallow scars (no tethering)

Pricing:

• Per scar area: ₩50,000-₩150,000 ($38-$115 USD)
• Full face: ₩200,000-₩400,000 ($154-$308 USD)
• Package (3 sessions): ₩500,000-₩900,000 ($385-$692 USD)

Sessions Needed: 1-3 sessions, 4-8 weeks apart

Downtime: 5-10 days (bruising, swelling common)

Pain Level: 4-6/10 (local anesthesia used)

Results: 40-70% improvement in rolling scars (best outcomes of any single treatment)

Often Combined With: Dermal fillers (immediately after to maintain elevation), laser treatments (4+ weeks later)

4. CO2 Fractional Laser (CO2 프락셔널)

What It Is: Ablative laser that vaporizes skin tissue

How It Works:

• Most aggressive fractional laser
• Removes columns of skin completely
• Triggers intense collagen remodeling
• Creates new, smoother skin

Best For:

• Moderate to severe boxcar scars
• Deep acne scars needing aggressive treatment
• Patients willing to endure significant downtime

Pricing:

• Range: ₩200,000-₩500,000 ($154-$385 USD) per session
• Average: ₩300,000-₩400,000 ($231-$308 USD)

Sessions Needed: 2-4 sessions, 2-3 months apart

Downtime: 7-14 days (significant redness, oozing, crusting)

Pain Level: 6-8/10 (even with anesthesia)

Results: 30-60% improvement in moderate-severe scars (most dramatic results, but highest risk/downtime)

Risk: Hyperpigmentation (especially for darker skin tones), prolonged redness

5. TCA CROSS (Chemical Reconstruction)

What It Is: High-concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA) applied directly into scars

How It Works:

• TCA (50-100% concentration) causes controlled chemical injury
• Stimulates collagen production at scar base
• New collagen "fills in" deep scars from bottom up
• Multiple sessions gradually raise scar level

Best For:

• Ice-pick scars (most effective non-surgical option)
• Deep, narrow boxcar scars
• Individual deep scars (not widespread scarring)

Pricing:

• Per scar: ₩5,000-₩20,000 ($3.85-$15 USD)
• 10-20 scars: ₩50,000-₩150,000 ($38-$115 USD)
• Full session: ₩100,000-₩250,000 ($77-$192 USD)

Sessions Needed: 3-6 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart

Downtime: 5-7 days (white frosting → brown crust → peeling)

Pain Level: 3-5/10 (brief burning sensation)

Results: 30-50% improvement in ice-pick depth (requires multiple sessions)

6. Combination Packages (Korean Standard)

Korean clinics rarely recommend single-treatment approaches. Most offer comprehensive packages:

Premium 10-Week Scar Package (Example):

• 3x Fraxel sessions
• 2x Subcision treatments
• 4x PDRN/Rejuran boosters
• Regeneration care after each session
• Total Cost: ₩1,690,000 ($1,300 USD)
• Expected Results: 40-60% overall improvement

Mid-Range Package:

• 4x Pico Fraxel
• 1x Subcision (if needed)
• 2x Skin booster injections
• Total Cost: ₩800,000-₩1,200,000 ($615-$923 USD)

Creating Your Treatment Plan

Step 1: Consultation

What Happens:

• Doctor examines scars under specialized lighting
• Classifies scar types and severity
• Discusses realistic expectations
• Recommends treatment combination

Cost: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38 USD), usually waived if you proceed

Questions to Ask:

1. "What percentage improvement can I realistically expect?"
2. "Which specific scar type do I have?"
3. "Why are you recommending this combination?"
4. "How many total sessions will I likely need?"
5. "What's the total estimated cost?"
6. "Can I see before/after photos of similar cases?"

Step 2: Prioritize Scar Types

Most Korean Dermatologists Recommend:

1. First: Address rolling scars with Subcision (fastest, most dramatic improvement)
2. Second: Treat boxcar scars with Fraxel/CO2 laser (texture improvement)
3. Third: Target ice-pick scars with TCA CROSS (most stubborn, need patience)
4. Throughout: Maintain with skin boosters and pigmentation treatments

Step 3: Budget Planning

Conservative Budget (Mild-Moderate Scars):

• 3x Fraxel: ₩450,000 ($346 USD)
• 1x Subcision: ₩200,000 ($154 USD)
• Total: ₩650,000 ($500 USD)
• Expected Improvement: 25-40%

Moderate Budget (Moderate Scars):

• 4x Pico Fraxel: ₩600,000 ($462 USD)
• 2x Subcision: ₩400,000 ($308 USD)
• 3x Skin boosters: ₩450,000 ($346 USD)
• Total: ₩1,450,000 ($1,115 USD)
• Expected Improvement: 40-55%

Comprehensive Budget (Severe Scars):

• 3x CO2 Fractional: ₩1,050,000 ($808 USD)
• 3x Subcision: ₩600,000 ($462 USD)
• 4x TCA CROSS: ₩400,000 ($308 USD)
• 4x Rejuran: ₩800,000 ($615 USD)
• Total: ₩2,850,000 ($2,192 USD)
• Expected Improvement: 50-70%

Step 4: Timeline Expectations

Month 1-2: Initial treatments (subcision, first laser) Month 3-4: Follow-up treatments Month 5-6: Final treatments, skin boosters Month 6-9: Continued collagen remodeling Month 9-12: Final results visible

Reality Check: Significant scar improvement takes minimum 6-12 months. Anyone promising dramatic results in 4 weeks is not being honest.

What to Expect: Treatment Process

Before Treatment (1-2 Weeks)

❌ Avoid:

• Active acne (get acne under control first!)
• Retinol, acids, aggressive exfoliation
• Sun exposure (tanning)
• Blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen)

✅ Do:

• Gentle skincare routine
• Daily SPF 50+
• Stay hydrated
• Arrive with clean, makeup-free face

During Treatment

Preparation (15-20 minutes):

• Face cleansing
• Numbing cream application
• Photography

Procedure (20-45 minutes):

• Depends on treatment (Fraxel 20 mins, Subcision 30 mins, TCA CROSS 15 mins)
• Moderate discomfort even with numbing
• Doctor adjusts intensity based on scar depth

Post-Treatment (10 minutes):

• Ice pack, calming cream
• Aftercare instructions
• Schedule next appointment

After Treatment

Days 1-3 (Acute Phase):

• Redness, swelling, heat sensation
• Pinpoint bleeding or oozing (if ablative laser)
• Tight, dry skin feeling
• Ice packs, gentle cleansing only

Days 3-7 (Healing Phase):

• Peeling, flaking skin (normal and expected)
• Redness fading
• Itching (means healing!)
• Can resume gentle makeup after day 3-5

Days 7-14 (Recovery Phase):

• Most visible healing complete
• Skin may still be pink/sensitive
• Resume normal skincare (avoid actives)
• Continue religious sun protection

Week 4+ (Remodeling Phase):

• Skin continues improving beneath surface
• Collagen production ongoing for months
• Can schedule next treatment

Realistic Expectations

What Acne Scar Treatment CAN Do

✅ Improve scar depth by 30-70% (depending on type and treatment intensity) ✅ Smooth skin texture noticeably ✅ Reduce scar visibility from conversational distance ✅ Even out skin tone (reduce pigmentation) ✅ Boost confidence significantly

What It CANNOT Do

❌ Make scars completely disappear (except very shallow scars) ❌ Create perfectly smooth skin like you never had acne ❌ Work after just 1-2 treatments (needs commitment) ❌ Prevent new acne or new scars (separate issue)

Success Rates by Scar Type

Best-Case Scenario: Rolling scars with subcision + laser + boosters = 60-70% improvement

Challenging Scenario: Deep ice-pick scars with TCA CROSS alone = 20-30% improvement, may need punch excision

Choosing the Right Clinic in Korea

Red Flags to Avoid

❌ Promising "100% scar removal" ❌ Claiming results in 2-3 weeks ❌ Pushing most expensive treatments without consultation ❌ No before/after photos of similar cases ❌ Rushing you into package purchase

Green Flags to Look For

✅ Honest about limitations ("You'll see improvement, not perfection") ✅ Customizes plan based on your specific scar types ✅ Shows portfolio of gradual improvement over months ✅ Discusses pain management openly ✅ Explains why certain treatments won't work for you

Recommended Clinic Types

For Severe Scars:

• University hospital dermatology departments
• Clinics specializing exclusively in scar treatment
• Doctors with 10+ years experience

For Moderate Scars:

• Established dermatology chains (multiple branches)
• Mid-range Gangnam/Sinsa clinics
• Good balance of technology and price

For Mild Scars:

• Neighborhood dermatology clinics
• Online booking platform deals
• Budget-friendly but reputable options

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long until I see results? A: 3-4 months for initial improvement, 9-12 months for maximum results. Collagen remodeling is a slow process—patience is essential.

Q: Will scars come back? A: No. Once improved, acne scars don't "return." However, new acne can create new scars, so acne management is crucial.

Q: Can I treat scars while still getting occasional acne? A: Minor occasional breakouts are okay, but active moderate-severe acne should be treated first. You can't heal old scars while creating new ones.

Q: Is it worth treating mild scars? A: Depends on personal impact. Treatments have cost, pain, and downtime. If scars are barely visible, focus on prevention and acceptance may be healthier.

Q: What's the single most effective treatment? A: For rolling scars: Subcision. For boxcar scars: Fraxel or CO2 laser. For ice-pick scars: TCA CROSS or punch techniques. There's no one-size-fits-all.

Q: Can I do this as a tourist? A: Challenging. You need 3-6 treatments over several months. Better suited for residents or multiple trips planned.

Q: Does it work on dark skin tones? A: Yes, but higher risk of hyperpigmentation with aggressive lasers. Pico laser and subcision are safer options. Always discuss skin tone concerns during consultation.

Q: How painful is it really? A: Moderate. Subcision and CO2 laser are most uncomfortable (5-7/10 pain). Fraxel is tolerable (4-6/10). TCA CROSS is brief discomfort (3-5/10). All use numbing cream or local anesthesia.

Q: Can I combine with other treatments like Botox or fillers? A: Yes, but with spacing. Wait 2+ weeks between different injectable treatments. Fillers are often used immediately after subcision to maintain scar elevation.

Final Recommendations

Worth It If:

✅ Your scars significantly impact confidence ✅ You can commit to 6-12 month treatment course ✅ You have realistic expectations (improvement, not perfection) ✅ You can afford ₩500,000-₩2,000,000 ($385-$1,538 USD) ✅ You're willing to prioritize sun protection religiously

Skip It If:

❌ Scars are very mild (barely visible) ❌ You expect perfect skin ❌ You can't commit to multiple sessions ❌ You have active moderate-severe acne (treat acne first) ❌ You won't wear daily SPF 50+ (treatment will fail)

Best Approach

1. Start with consultation at 2-3 clinics (compare recommendations)
2. Begin with subcision if you have rolling scars (fastest improvement)
3. Add laser treatments gradually (Fraxel or Pico based on budget/downtime)
4. Target stubborn scars with TCA CROSS in later sessions
5. Maintain with skin boosters throughout treatment course
6. Protect with SPF 365 days/year (non-negotiable)
7. Be patient with timeline (6-12 months minimum)

Bottom Line: Acne scar treatment in Korea is highly advanced and cost-effective compared to Western countries. With proper treatment selection, realistic expectations, and commitment to the full course, most patients achieve meaningful improvement (30-60%). It won't give you porcelain skin, but it can significantly reduce scar visibility and restore confidence.

Medical Disclaimer: This guide provides information only and is not medical advice. Acne scar treatments should only be performed by licensed medical professionals. Consult with a qualified dermatologist to assess your specific scar type and determine appropriate treatment options.

Exchange Rate Reference: ₩1,300 = $1 USD (January 2025)