Acne Scar Treatment in Seoul: Complete Guide to Types, Procedures & Prices 2025

Acne scars can persist long after acne clears, affecting confidence and skin texture. Seoul has emerged as a global leader in acne scar treatment, offering cutting-edge technologies, highly specialized dermatologists, and comprehensive treatment approaches that combine multiple modalities for optimal results. Korean dermatologists pioneered many advanced scar treatments and have refined techniques over decades of treating diverse scar types. With treatment costs 50-70% lower than Western countries and access to the latest innovations, Seoul attracts patients worldwide seeking effective acne scar solutions. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about treating acne scars in Seoul.

Understanding Acne Scars

Acne scars form when inflammatory acne damages the skin's deeper layers. As the body attempts to repair this damage, collagen production may be inadequate (creating depressed scars) or excessive (creating raised scars).

Why Acne Scars Form

The Scar Formation Process:

1. Inflammation: Deep, inflamed acne (cysts, nodules) damages dermis
2. Tissue Loss: Inflammation destroys collagen and fat in dermis
3. Healing Response: Body attempts to repair with new collagen
4. Incomplete Repair: New collagen often differs in structure/amount
5. Permanent Scar: Textural change remains after acne heals

Risk Factors for Scarring:

• Severe, inflammatory acne (especially cystic acne)
• Delayed or inadequate acne treatment
• Picking, squeezing, or manipulating acne
• Genetic predisposition
• Darker skin tones (may develop hyperpigmentation)
• Prolonged active acne

Important: Early acne treatment is crucial. Treating active acne aggressively prevents scar formation.

Types of Acne Scars

Understanding your scar type is essential because different scars require different treatments. Most people have a combination of multiple types.

Atrophic Scars (Depressed/Indented Scars)

These are the most common acne scars (80-90% of cases), characterized by depressions in the skin where tissue loss occurred.

1. Ice Pick Scars (아이스픽 흉터)

Appearance:

• Narrow, deep, pitted scars
• Small opening (1-2mm diameter)
• Extends deep into dermis (looks like puncture wound)
• Sharp, defined edges
• Resembles an ice pick puncture

Characteristics:

• Most difficult to treat
• Deepest of all scar types
• Narrow width makes laser penetration challenging
• 60-70% of atrophic scars

Best Treatments:

• TCA CROSS (most effective)
• Punch excision for very deep scars
• Fractional CO2 laser (limited effectiveness alone)
• Combination: CROSS + laser

Why They're Challenging: Ice pick scars are too narrow and deep for lasers alone to reach effectively. The narrow opening limits laser beam penetration, requiring targeted chemical or surgical approaches.

2. Boxcar Scars (박스카 흉터)

Appearance:

• Angular, well-defined edges (like a box)
• Wider than ice pick scars (1.5-4mm)
• Shallow to moderately deep
• Flat or rounded base
• Resembles chickenpox scars

Characteristics:

• Clear, defined borders
• Can be shallow (easier to treat) or deep (more challenging)
• 20-30% of atrophic scars
• Wider opening allows better laser access

Best Treatments:

• Fractional CO2 laser (very effective)
• Subcision (for deeper boxcar scars)
• Dermal fillers (immediate improvement)
• TCA CROSS (for deep boxcar)
• Combination treatments

Treatment Success: Boxcar scars respond well to lasers due to wider surface area and defined edges that allow focused treatment.

3. Rolling Scars (롤링 흉터)

Appearance:

• Wave-like, undulating surface
• Rounded, sloping edges
• Broad depressions (4-5mm wide)
• Gentle slopes rather than sharp edges
• Creates overall uneven skin texture

Characteristics:

• Caused by fibrous bands pulling skin downward
• Wider and shallower than other types
• Softer, less defined borders
• 15-25% of atrophic scars
• Creates "rolling" or wavy appearance

Best Treatments:

• Subcision (most effective - releases fibrous bands)
• Dermal fillers (excellent results)
• Fractional lasers (moderate improvement)
• Combination: Subcision + filler + laser

Key Mechanism: Rolling scars form when tethered tissue pulls skin down. Subcision cuts these tethers, allowing skin to rise naturally.

Hypertrophic & Keloid Scars (Raised Scars)

Appearance:

• Raised, thickened tissue
• Hypertrophic: Stays within original wound boundary
• Keloid: Extends beyond original wound boundary

Characteristics:

• Caused by excessive collagen production
• More common in darker skin tones
• More common on chest, shoulders, back
• Less common on face
• Can be itchy or tender

Best Treatments:

• Steroid injections (first-line treatment)
• Laser therapy (vascular laser, fractional)
• Surgical excision + steroid injection
• Silicone sheeting
• Cryotherapy

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Important Note: PIH is NOT a true scar—it's temporary discoloration that fades over time (months to years).

Appearance:

• Flat, darkened marks where acne was
• Brown, red, or purple discoloration
• No texture change (smooth)

Best Treatments:

• Laser toning (very effective)
• Chemical peels
• Topical treatments (vitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids)
• Sun protection (crucial to prevent darkening)

Acne Scar Treatments in Seoul

Korean dermatologists use a comprehensive, multi-modal approach, combining treatments based on scar type and severity. Single-modality treatment rarely achieves optimal results.

1. Fractional Laser Therapy

Fractional lasers are the cornerstone of acne scar treatment, creating controlled micro-injuries to trigger collagen remodeling.

Fractional CO2 Laser (가장 강력)

What It Is:

• Ablative laser (removes tissue)
• Creates microscopic columns of thermal damage
• Most aggressive fractional option
• Gold standard for acne scars

How It Works:

1. Laser creates thousands of microscopic holes in skin
2. Removes damaged tissue in treated columns
3. Surrounding healthy tissue accelerates healing
4. New collagen fills in and smooths scars
5. Skin resurfaces with improved texture

Best For:

• Moderate to severe boxcar scars
• Deep ice pick scars (combined with other treatments)
• Rough, uneven skin texture
• Older, established scars
• Patients willing to accept downtime

Treatment Protocol:

• 3-5 sessions, 4-8 weeks apart
• Significant downtime: 5-10 days
• Progressive improvement over months
• Final results at 6-12 months

Downtime & Recovery:

• Days 1-3: Significant redness, oozing, crusting
• Days 4-7: Peeling, flaking, tightness
• Days 7-10: Pinkness fades, makeup can cover
• Weeks 2-4: Continued improvement in texture
• Avoid sun completely during healing

Price in Seoul: ₩150,000-400,000 ($115-315) per session Total treatment cost: ₩600,000-2,000,000 ($470-1,565) for full course

Advantages:

• Most dramatic improvement
• Long-lasting results
• Treats severe scars effectively

Disadvantages:

• Significant downtime
• Risk of hyperpigmentation (especially darker skin)
• More discomfort than non-ablative options
• Requires strict sun protection

Fractional Erbium Laser

What It Is:

• Ablative laser (gentler than CO2)
• Shorter wavelength, less heat damage
• Moderate effectiveness with less downtime

How It Works:

• Similar to CO2 but more superficial
• Less aggressive tissue removal
• Faster healing
• Lower risk of complications

Best For:

• Mild to moderate scars
• Lighter skin tones
• Those unable to take extended downtime
• Sensitive skin
• First-time laser patients

Price in Seoul: ₩120,000-350,000 ($95-275) per session Downtime: 3-7 days

Non-Ablative Fractional Laser (Fraxel)

What It Is:

• Non-ablative (doesn't remove tissue)
• Heats dermis without surface damage
• Minimal downtime
• Gentler option

How It Works:

• Laser energy penetrates without removing skin
• Creates controlled thermal zones
• Stimulates collagen production
• No open wounds or crusting

Best For:

• Mild scars
• Minimal downtime required
• Maintenance after ablative treatments
• Combination with other treatments
• Preventative treatment

Price in Seoul: ₩100,000-300,000 ($80-235) per session Downtime: 1-3 days (mild redness only)

Important Note: Non-ablative lasers are less effective for moderate-severe scars. They require more sessions for visible results.

2. Subcision (서브시전)

Subcision is a minor surgical procedure that releases fibrous bands causing tethered, rolling scars.

What It Is:

• Uses special needle (Nokor needle or cannula)
• Inserted parallel to skin surface
• Cuts fibrous tissue beneath scar
• Releases tethering, allowing skin to rise

How It Works:

1. Local anesthesia applied
2. Needle inserted at scar edge
3. Moved back and forth to cut fibrous bands
4. Tissue separation creates space for healing
5. Blood fills space (hematoma forms)
6. New collagen forms, lifting scar

Best For:

• Rolling scars (most effective treatment)
• Deep boxcar scars
• Tethered, bound-down scars
• Depressed scars unresponsive to laser alone

Procedure:

• Takes 15-30 minutes
• Local anesthesia (minimal discomfort)
• Can treat multiple scars per session
• Often combined with filler injection

Downtime:

• Immediate bruising and swelling
• Bruising lasts 7-14 days (can be significant)
• Avoid blood thinners before/after
• No strenuous activity for 1 week

Results:

• Immediate improvement from swelling
• True results visible at 4-8 weeks
• May need 2-3 sessions for deep scars
• Effects last 1-2+ years

Price in Seoul: ₩100,000-300,000 ($80-235) per session Often combined with: Dermal fillers, laser treatment

Combination Treatment (Subcision + Filler): Many dermatologists inject filler immediately after subcision to:

• Maintain lifted position
• Prevent re-tethering
• Provide structural support
• Achieve immediate visible improvement

Combined price: ₩300,000-600,000 ($235-470)

3. TCA CROSS (Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars)

TCA CROSS is a targeted chemical peel specifically for deep, narrow scars.

What It Is:

• High-concentration TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) 70-100%
• Applied only inside scar (not surrounding skin)
• Causes controlled chemical injury
• Stimulates collagen production from scar base

How It Works:

1. High-strength TCA applied with toothpick or fine applicator
2. Acid "dots" placed precisely inside each scar
3. Chemical injury triggers intense healing response
4. Fibroblasts produce new collagen
5. Scar fills in from bottom up
6. Multiple sessions build collagen progressively

Best For:

• Ice pick scars (most effective treatment)
• Deep, narrow boxcar scars
• Scars too deep for laser to reach
• Individual, isolated scars

Procedure:

• No anesthesia needed (brief stinging)
• Takes 15-30 minutes
• Frosting (white appearance) occurs immediately
• Multiple scars treated per session
• Repeated every 4-8 weeks

Downtime:

• Treated scars darken (scabbing) for 7-10 days
• Scabs fall off naturally
• Pink for another 1-2 weeks
• Minimal overall downtime
• Can wear makeup after scabs fall off

Results:

• Gradual improvement over months
• Need 3-6 sessions for significant improvement
• Each session adds more collagen
• Results cumulative

Price in Seoul: ₩50,000-150,000 ($40-115) per session Total treatment: ₩300,000-900,000 ($235-705) for full course

Advantages:

• Highly effective for ice pick scars
• Minimal downtime compared to laser
• Targeted (doesn't affect surrounding skin)
• Affordable
• Low complication risk

Disadvantages:

• Multiple sessions required
• Gradual results (patience needed)
• Temporary darkening/scabbing
• Risk of hyperpigmentation if not done properly

4. Punch Techniques (펀치 시술)

Surgical techniques for very deep, isolated scars resistant to other treatments.

Punch Excision

What It Is:

• Surgical removal of individual deep scars
• Scar cut out with small punch tool (1-3mm)
• Wound sutured closed or allowed to heal

How It Works:

1. Scar removed with circular punch blade
2. For deep scars: Sutured closed with fine stitches
3. For shallow scars: Left to heal naturally (forms flat scar)
4. Original deep scar replaced with flat, fine-line scar
5. Can laser remaining flat scar later

Best For:

• Very deep ice pick scars
• Individual, isolated scars
• Scars not responding to CROSS or laser

Price in Seoul: ₩50,000-200,000 ($40-155) per scar Downtime: 7-14 days (stitches removed at 5-7 days)

Punch Elevation

What It Is:

• Depressed scar base cut and elevated
• Scar "plug" raised to skin surface level
• Secured in elevated position

Best For:

• Deep boxcar scars with good skin thickness
• Sharply defined, deep scars

Price in Seoul: ₩100,000-250,000 ($80-195) per area

5. Dermal Fillers for Scars

Dermal fillers provide immediate volume to depressed scars, lifting them to skin surface level.

What It Is:

• Hyaluronic acid or PLLA filler injected beneath scar
• Fills volume deficit
• Lifts depressed area
• Immediate visible improvement

How It Works:

• Filler injected under scar using fine needle or cannula
• Volume physically lifts depressed tissue
• Provides structural support
• For HA fillers: Lasts 6-18 months
• For PLLA (Sculptra): Stimulates collagen, lasts 18-24 months

Best For:

• Rolling scars (excellent results)
• Deep boxcar scars
• Immediate improvement needed (events)
• Combination with subcision
• Soft, pliable scars

Types Used:

• HA Fillers (Restylane, Juvederm): Immediate, temporary (6-18 months)
• PLLA Fillers (Sculptra): Gradual collagen stimulation, longer-lasting (18-24 months)

Procedure:

• Takes 15-30 minutes
• Minimal discomfort (numbing cream)
• Immediate visible improvement
• Can resume normal activities immediately

Price in Seoul:

• HA filler: ₩300,000-600,000 ($235-470) per syringe
• PLLA filler: ₩400,000-700,000 ($315-550) per vial

Advantages:

• Immediate dramatic improvement
• Minimal downtime
• Reversible (HA fillers can be dissolved)
• Can combine with other treatments

Disadvantages:

• Temporary (requires maintenance)
• Cost accumulates with repeated treatments
• Not suitable for all scar types
• Can migrate if not placed properly

6. Microneedling & RF Microneedling

Traditional Microneedling:

• Fine needles create micro-channels in skin
• Triggers collagen production
• Improves texture and mild scars
• Minimal downtime (2-3 days redness)
• Price: ₩100,000-200,000 ($80-155) per session

RF Microneedling (Secret RF, Infini, etc.):

• Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy
• Needles penetrate skin and deliver RF heat
• More aggressive collagen stimulation
• Better results than traditional microneedling
• Moderate downtime (3-5 days)
• Price: ₩200,000-500,000 ($155-390) per session

Best For:

• Mild to moderate scars
• Overall skin texture improvement
• Combination with other treatments
• Maintenance after laser courses

Note: Microneedling alone has limited effectiveness for moderate-severe scars. Best as adjunct treatment.

7. Laser Toning for PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)

While not treating scar texture, laser toning is essential for treating the dark marks that often accompany acne scars.

Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser / Pico Laser:

• Targets melanin in dark marks
• Breaks down pigment
• Gradual brightening over sessions
• No downtime

Protocol:

• 5-10 sessions, 1-2 weeks apart
• Noticeable brightening after 3-5 sessions

Price: ₩30,000-110,000 ($25-85) per session

Treatment Protocols by Scar Type

Korean dermatologists use customized combinations based on individual scar patterns.

For Predominantly Ice Pick Scars

Protocol:

1. TCA CROSS (3-6 sessions, monthly intervals)
2. Fractional CO2 Laser after CROSS course (2-3 sessions)
3. Laser Toning for pigmentation (5-10 sessions)

Timeline: 6-12 months Cost: ₩1,000,000-2,500,000 ($785-1,955)

For Predominantly Boxcar Scars

Protocol:

1. Fractional CO2 Laser (3-5 sessions, 6-8 week intervals)
2. TCA CROSS for deep scars (as needed)
3. Laser Toning for pigmentation

Timeline: 6-10 months Cost: ₩1,200,000-3,000,000 ($940-2,350)

For Predominantly Rolling Scars

Protocol:

1. Subcision (2-3 sessions, 6-8 week intervals)
2. Dermal Filler immediately after subcision
3. Fractional Laser (2-3 sessions) for texture
4. Laser Toning for pigmentation

Timeline: 4-8 months Cost: ₩1,500,000-3,500,000 ($1,175-2,740)

For Mixed Scar Types (Most Common)

Comprehensive Protocol:

1. Assessment: Doctor maps each scar type
2. Phase 1: Address deepest scars first
   • CROSS for ice pick scars
   • Subcision for rolling scars
3. Phase 2: Fractional CO2 laser (3-5 sessions)
4. Phase 3: Filler for remaining depressions
5. Phase 4: Laser toning for pigmentation
6. Maintenance: Annual touch-up treatments

Timeline: 12-18 months for complete transformation Cost: ₩2,500,000-5,000,000 ($1,955-3,915)

Treatment Comparison Table

What to Expect: Treatment Process

Initial Consultation (30-60 minutes)

Scar Assessment:

• Doctor examines scars under magnification
• Identifies each scar type (ice pick, boxcar, rolling)
• Maps scar distribution
• Assesses severity (mild, moderate, severe)
• Takes before photos

Medical History:

• Active acne status (must be controlled first)
• Previous scar treatments
• Skin type and sensitivity
• Tendency to keloid/hypertrophic scarring
• Medications and health conditions

Treatment Plan:

• Doctor recommends specific treatment combination
• Explains why each treatment is chosen
• Provides realistic timeline
• Sets expectations (percent improvement expected)
• Discusses costs

Important Questions to Ask:

• What percentage improvement can I realistically expect?
• Which treatment will address my scars most effectively?
• How many sessions total will I need?
• What is the complete cost?
• Can I see before/after photos of similar scars?
• What are the risks for my skin type?

Treatment Day Experience

Fractional CO2 Laser:

1. Face cleansed thoroughly
2. Topical numbing cream applied (30-40 minutes)
3. Protective eye shields placed
4. Laser passed over face systematically (15-30 minutes)
5. Intense heat sensation (tolerable with numbing)
6. Cooling mask and ointment applied
7. Face appears very red and swollen immediately

Subcision:

1. Treatment area cleansed
2. Local anesthetic injected
3. Nokor needle/cannula inserted under each scar
4. Cutting motion releases fibrous bands
5. Significant bruising expected
6. Filler may be injected immediately (if combined)
7. Ice packs applied

TCA CROSS:

1. Face cleansed
2. No anesthesia (procedure quick)
3. TCA applied inside each scar with applicator
4. Brief, intense stinging (5-10 seconds per scar)
5. Scars frost white immediately
6. Entire process: 15-30 minutes
7. Post-care instructions reviewed

Recovery Timeline

Fractional CO2 Laser Recovery:

• Day 1: Intense redness, oozing, heat sensation
• Days 2-3: Crusting, extreme tightness, discomfort
• Days 4-5: Peeling begins, itchy
• Days 6-8: Significant peeling, pink skin emerges
• Days 9-10: Pinkness fades, makeup can cover
• Weeks 2-6: Continued texture improvement
• Months 3-6: Optimal results visible

Subcision Recovery:

• Day 1: Swelling, immediate bruising
• Days 2-5: Bruising darkens, looks worse
• Days 5-10: Bruising yellows, starts fading
• Days 10-14: Bruising mostly resolved
• Weeks 4-8: True lifting results visible
• Can use arnica to reduce bruising

TCA CROSS Recovery:

• Day 1: Treated scars white, then darken
• Days 2-4: Scabs form (dark brown/black)
• Days 5-8: Scabs loosen and fall off (don't pick!)
• Days 8-14: Pink skin underneath, fades gradually
• Weeks 4-8: Improvement becomes noticeable

Post-Treatment Care (Critical for Success)

DO:

• Apply prescribed ointments/creams consistently
• Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
• Moisturize extensively (skin will be very dry)
• Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen every 2 hours (crucial!)
• Stay hydrated
• Sleep with head elevated (reduces swelling)
• Follow doctor's instructions exactly

DON'T:

• Touch, pick, or scratch treated areas
• Expose to sun without protection (hyperpigmentation risk)
• Use active skincare (retinoids, AHAs, vitamin C) until cleared by doctor
• Exercise strenuously (first 3-7 days depending on treatment)
• Go to saunas, hot yoga, swimming pools
• Apply makeup until instructed (usually 24-48 hours minimum)
• Expect immediate results (patience required!)

Sun Protection is CRITICAL: Treated skin is extremely vulnerable to sun damage and hyperpigmentation. UV exposure can:

• Cause permanent dark spots
• Reverse treatment benefits
• Increase scarring risk
• Prolong redness

Use SPF 50+, reapply every 2 hours, wear hats, avoid peak sun hours.

Results: What to Expect

Realistic Improvement Percentages

Mild Scarring:

• Expected improvement: 70-90%
• Timeline: 4-8 months
• Treatments needed: 3-5 sessions

Moderate Scarring:

• Expected improvement: 50-70%
• Timeline: 8-12 months
• Treatments needed: 5-8 sessions, combination approach

Severe Scarring:

• Expected improvement: 30-50%
• Timeline: 12-18+ months
• Treatments needed: 8-12+ sessions, aggressive combination protocol

Important Reality Check: Complete scar removal is rarely possible. Goals are significant improvement and smoother texture. Deep, severe scars may always have some residual texture, but can improve dramatically.

Factors Affecting Results

Positive Factors:

• Younger age (better collagen production)
• Recent scars (newer scars respond better)
• Good overall skin health
• No active acne
• Lighter skin tones (less pigmentation risk)
• Following post-care instructions
• Non-smoker

Challenging Factors:

• Very deep, old scars
• Darker skin (higher PIH risk)
• Active acne (must control first)
• Smoking (impairs healing)
• Poor sun protection compliance
• Unrealistic expectations
• Limited budget/unable to complete full protocol

Seoul Acne Scar Treatment Pricing

Individual Treatment Costs

Complete Treatment Packages

Basic Package (Mild Scars):

• Fractional laser (3 sessions) + Laser toning (5 sessions)
• Total: ₩800,000-1,500,000 ($625-1,175)

Standard Package (Moderate Scars):

• Fractional CO2 (4 sessions) + TCA CROSS (4 sessions) + Laser toning (10 sessions)
• Total: ₩1,500,000-2,500,000 ($1,175-1,955)

Comprehensive Package (Severe Scars):

• Fractional CO2 (5 sessions) + Subcision (3 sessions) + TCA CROSS (5 sessions) + Filler + Laser toning (10 sessions)
• Total: ₩3,000,000-5,000,000 ($2,350-3,915)

Seoul vs. International Pricing

Prices as of October 2025. Individual pricing varies by clinic, doctor experience, and specific treatment plan.

Choosing the Right Clinic in Seoul

Essential Qualifications

Doctor Credentials:

• Board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon
• Minimum 5+ years treating acne scars specifically
• Portfolio of before/after photos
• Experience treating diverse skin types (especially if you have darker skin)

Clinic Standards:

• Modern equipment (check laser brands - reputable manufacturers)
• Clean, professional environment
• English-speaking staff available (if needed)
• Clear treatment plans and pricing
• Follow-up care included

Treatment Philosophy:

• Realistic expectations discussed upfront
• Customized plans (not one-size-fits-all)
• Explains why specific treatments chosen
• Doesn't overpromise results
• Addresses active acne first if needed

Red Flags to Avoid

• Guarantees 100% scar removal
• Pressure to buy large packages immediately
• Vague about specific treatments or products used
• No doctor consultation, only staff
• Prices dramatically lower than average (quality concerns)
• No before/after documentation
• Dismisses your concerns or questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can acne scars be completely removed? A: Complete removal is rarely possible, especially for severe scars. Realistic goals are 30-90% improvement depending on severity. Mild scars can improve dramatically (70-90%), while severe scars typically improve 30-50%. The goal is significant visible improvement and smoother texture, not perfection.

Q: How long does it take to see results? A: Timeline varies by treatment. Fillers show immediate results. Laser and CROSS treatments show gradual improvement over 3-6 months as collagen remodels. Full results from comprehensive protocols typically visible at 6-12 months. Patience is essential—collagen production is a slow process.

Q: Do treatments hurt? A: Most treatments involve numbing cream or local anesthetic. Fractional CO2 with numbing feels like intense heat (tolerable but uncomfortable). Subcision is painless with anesthetic. TCA CROSS stings briefly (5-10 seconds per scar) but is tolerable. Post-treatment discomfort is generally mild and manageable with pain medication.

Q: I have darker skin—can I still get treated? A: Yes, but require extra caution. Darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) have higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Choose doctors experienced with diverse skin types. Treatments may need lower intensity settings, test spots first, and careful post-care. TCA CROSS and subcision are safer for darker skin than aggressive lasers.

Q: Should I treat active acne first? A: Absolutely. Active acne must be controlled before scar treatment. Ongoing breakouts will:

• Create new scars while treating old ones
• Increase infection risk with procedures
• Reduce treatment effectiveness
• Complicate healing

Work with dermatologist to clear active acne, then begin scar treatment 3-6 months after acne is controlled.

Q: How many treatments will I need? A: Depends on scar severity and type:

• Mild scars: 3-5 treatment sessions
• Moderate scars: 5-8 sessions
• Severe scars: 8-12+ sessions

Combination treatments (multiple modalities) are most effective. Single-treatment approaches rarely achieve optimal results.

Q: Can I wear makeup during recovery? A: Timing varies by treatment:

• Laser toning: Immediately (mineral makeup recommended)
• TCA CROSS: After scabs fall off (7-10 days)
• Fractional CO2: 7-10 days minimum, when skin healed
• Subcision: 24-48 hours (avoid bruised areas)

Always use mineral, non-comedogenic makeup during healing.

Q: Will scars come back after treatment? A: No. Once scar tissue is remodeled and filled with new collagen, improvement is permanent. However, new acne can create new scars. Maintain acne control with proper skincare and medical treatment as needed.

Q: Can I combine scar treatments with other procedures? A: Yes, often recommended! Common combinations:

• Scar treatment + Botox/fillers (different areas)
• Scar laser + skin boosters (addresses texture and quality)
• Must be properly sequenced (doctor will plan timing)

Avoid: Two aggressive treatments simultaneously on same area.

Q: Is there an age limit for treatment? A: No strict age limit. Teenagers can be treated once acne is controlled and scarring has stabilized. Older patients can also benefit, though collagen production slows with age, potentially requiring more sessions. Ideal candidates are typically 18-50 years old.

Conclusion

Acne scars can be challenging, but Seoul's advanced treatment options, experienced specialists, and comprehensive multi-modal approaches offer hope for significant improvement. The key to success is understanding your specific scar types, choosing appropriate treatment combinations, selecting a qualified and experienced dermatologist, and maintaining realistic expectations throughout the process.

Korean dermatology clinics pioneered many of the most effective scar treatments available today, and continue to refine techniques and develop new technologies. With treatment costs 50-70% lower than Western countries and access to cutting-edge options like fractional CO2 lasers, TCA CROSS, subcision, and advanced fillers, Seoul provides an excellent destination for comprehensive acne scar treatment.

Ready to transform your skin? Use this guide to understand your scars, research treatment options, select the right clinic and protocol, and begin your journey to smoother, clearer, more confident skin. With patience, proper treatment, and diligent post-care, significant improvement is within reach.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about acne scar treatments available in Seoul, Korea. It is not intended as medical advice. All skin treatments carry potential risks including infection, scarring, hyperpigmentation, allergic reactions, and unsatisfactory results. Individual results vary significantly based on scar type, severity, skin type, age, and adherence to treatment protocols. Always consult with board-certified dermatologists or qualified medical professionals before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Active acne should be controlled before beginning scar treatment. The information provided is based on October 2025 data and is subject to change. Prices and treatment availability may vary by clinic.

Last Updated: October 25, 2025 Reading Time: 28 minutes

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