Laser Hair Removal in Korea: Complete Price & Clinic Guide 2025
Laser hair removal is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in Korea, with clinics offering some of the most competitive prices in the world. Whether you're looking to remove facial hair, underarms, or full body, Korean clinics provide advanced technology at affordable rates. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Get Laser Hair Removal in Korea?
Advantages
- Competitive pricing - 30-50% cheaper than Western countries
- Advanced technology - Latest laser equipment
- Experienced practitioners - High treatment volume
- Efficiency - Quick sessions, minimal wait times
- Package deals - Significant savings on multiple sessions
Popular Laser Systems in Korea
| Laser Type | Best For | Skin Types |
|---|---|---|
| GentleMax Pro Plus | All hair/skin types | All types |
| Apogee Elite Plus | Dark hair | Light-Medium skin |
| Soprano ICE | Sensitive areas | All types |
| Clarity II | Fast treatment | All types |
Laser Hair Removal Prices by Area (2025)
Face & Neck
| Area | 5 Sessions (KRW) | 5 Sessions (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Upper lip (인중) | ₩79,000-150,000 | $61-115 |
| Upper lip + Chin | ₩149,000-250,000 | $115-192 |
| Sideburns (구레나룻) | ₩99,000-180,000 | $76-138 |
| Full face | ₩300,000-500,000 | $231-385 |
| Neck (뒷목) | ₩169,000-280,000 | $130-215 |
Body - Women
| Area | 5 Sessions (KRW) | 5 Sessions (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Underarms (겨드랑이) | ₩99,000-180,000 | $76-138 |
| Arms (full) | ₩200,000-350,000 | $154-269 |
| Lower legs | ₩250,000-400,000 | $192-308 |
| Full legs | ₩400,000-600,000 | $308-462 |
| Bikini line | ₩150,000-280,000 | $115-215 |
| Brazilian | ₩300,000-500,000 | $231-385 |
Body - Men
| Area | 5 Sessions (KRW) | 5 Sessions (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Beard/Face (수염) | ₩200,000-400,000 | $154-308 |
| Chest | ₩250,000-400,000 | $192-308 |
| Back | ₩300,000-500,000 | $231-385 |
| Full body | ₩800,000-1,500,000 | $615-1,154 |
| Brazilian | ₩400,000-600,000 | $308-462 |
Popular Clinic Price Examples
나인피부과 (Nine Dermatology) Gangnam:
- Upper lip: 5 sessions ₩79,000 ($61)
- Underarms: 5 sessions ₩99,000 ($76)
- Men's Brazilian: 5 sessions ₩400,000 ($308)
- Men's beard 1-year unlimited: ₩108,900 ($84)
리버스클리닉 (Reverse Clinic):
- Upper lip + Chin: 5 sessions ₩149,000 ($115)
- Upper lip + Chin: 10 sessions ₩298,000 ($229)
톡신앤필 (Toxin & Fill):
- Men's body starting: ₩50,000 ($38)
How Laser Hair Removal Works
The Science
Laser energy targets melanin (pigment) in hair follicles. The light converts to heat, damaging the follicle and inhibiting future growth.
Treatment Cycle
Hair grows in cycles:
- Anagen (growth) - Laser effective ✓
- Catagen (transition) - Less effective
- Telogen (rest) - Not effective
This is why multiple sessions are needed - to catch all hairs during their growth phase.
Expected Sessions by Area
| Area | Sessions Needed | Session Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Face | 6-10 | 4-6 weeks |
| Underarms | 5-8 | 4-6 weeks |
| Bikini | 6-10 | 6-8 weeks |
| Legs | 6-8 | 6-8 weeks |
| Arms | 5-7 | 6-8 weeks |
| Back/Chest | 6-10 | 6-8 weeks |
What to Expect
Before Treatment
1-2 weeks before:
- Avoid sun exposure
- No waxing or plucking (shaving OK)
- Stop retinoids/exfoliating acids
Day before:
- Shave treatment area
- Clean skin, no lotions/deodorant
During Treatment
- Duration: 15 minutes (underarms) to 2 hours (full body)
- Sensation: Rubber band snap, warm sensation
- Cooling: Built-in cooling systems minimize discomfort
- No anesthesia needed for most areas
After Treatment
Immediately:
- Mild redness (1-2 hours)
- Slight warmth
- Occasional swelling
Next 1-2 weeks:
- Hair "shedding" - treated hairs fall out
- Don't wax or pluck
- Protect from sun
Laser Types Explained
GentleMax Pro Plus
Technology: Alexandrite (755nm) + Nd:YAG (1064nm) Best for: All skin types, versatile Why it's popular: Gold standard, effective on various hair types Sensation: Moderate, with cooling spray
Apogee Elite Plus
Technology: Alexandrite + Nd:YAG dual wavelength Best for: Light to medium skin, dark hair Why it's popular: Fast, efficient for large areas Sensation: Mild to moderate
Soprano ICE / Soprano Titanium
Technology: Diode laser with gradual heating Best for: Sensitive areas, darker skin Why it's popular: Virtually painless, safe for all skin Sensation: Warming sensation, minimal discomfort
Clarity II
Technology: Alexandrite + Nd:YAG Best for: Fast treatment, all skin types Why it's popular: 2cm spot size for quick sessions Sensation: Moderate with cooling
Special Considerations
For Darker Skin
- Nd:YAG laser (1064nm) is safest
- Lower energy settings required
- More sessions may be needed
- Higher risk of PIH - choose experienced clinic
For Light/Fine Hair
- May require more sessions
- Alexandrite often more effective
- Some blonde/gray hair doesn't respond to laser
For Men
- Beard removal popular but requires 10+ sessions
- Back/chest common treatment areas
- Can reduce density without complete removal
- Higher testosterone = potential regrowth
Finding a Clinic in Korea
Gangnam Area Clinics
Gangnam has the highest concentration of laser clinics:
- 메티의원 - GentleMax Pro Plus specialists
- 모리스의원 - Near Gangnam Station
- 나인피부과 - Multiple locations, competitive prices
- 리버스클리닉 - Good value packages
What to Look For
- Licensed facility - 의원/클리닉 certification
- Trained technicians - Ask about experience
- Modern equipment - Ask which laser they use
- Transparent pricing - Package deals clearly explained
- English support - Essential for communication
Questions to Ask
- Which laser do you use?
- How many sessions will I need?
- What's included in the package?
- Can I select male or female technician?
- What if I need additional sessions?
Comparing Korea vs. Other Countries
| Country | Underarm 6 Sessions | Full Legs 6 Sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Korea | $76-138 | $308-462 |
| Japan | $150-300 | $500-800 |
| USA | $300-600 | $800-1,500 |
| UK | $250-500 | $700-1,200 |
| Australia | $200-400 | $600-1,000 |
Korea offers 50-70% savings compared to Western countries
Package Options
Single Visit Packages
For tourists with limited time:
- 1-3 sessions focusing on one area
- No long-term commitment
- Good for maintaining existing treatment
Multi-Session Packages
Best value for residents or multiple trips:
- 5-session packages (standard)
- 10-session packages (better value)
- Unlimited packages (certain areas, time-limited)
Yearly Unlimited Packages
Some clinics offer unlimited treatment for one year:
- Great for stubborn areas (beard, bikini)
- Must return within specified timeframe
- Example: Beard 1-year unlimited ₩108,900 ($84)
Tips for International Visitors
Planning
- Book ahead - Popular clinics fill up
- Research clinics - Read reviews on Gangnam Unni app
- Calculate sessions - Plan for realistic treatment schedule
- Check refund policy - If you can't complete sessions
During Your Visit
- Confirm pricing in writing
- Ask for English documentation
- Take photos of your package deal terms
- Get clinic contact for follow-up questions
If You Can't Complete Sessions
Many clinics offer:
- Transfer to another location (chains only)
- Extension of package validity
- Partial refund (varies by clinic)
- Treatment record for continuing elsewhere
FAQ
Q: Is laser hair removal permanent? A: After 5+ sessions, expect 70-90% permanent reduction. Some maintenance may be needed yearly.
Q: Does it hurt? A: Modern lasers with cooling are quite tolerable. Sensitive areas (bikini, face) feel more intense.
Q: How long between sessions? A: Face: 4-6 weeks. Body: 6-8 weeks. Based on hair growth cycles.
Q: Can I do laser hair removal on a short Korea trip? A: Yes, single sessions are available. Each treatment reduces hair even if you can't complete full course.
Q: Men can request male technicians? A: Yes, many clinics offer gender-specific practitioners for intimate areas.
Conclusion
Korea offers exceptional value for laser hair removal with prices 50-70% lower than Western countries. With advanced technology and experienced practitioners, it's an ideal destination for this treatment.
Key takeaways:
- Prices start at $60-100 for 5 sessions (small areas)
- GentleMax Pro Plus is the most popular laser
- 5-10 sessions needed for best results
- Package deals offer significant savings
- Many clinics accommodate English speakers
Ready to get started? Research clinics in Gangnam or your preferred area and book a consultation to discuss your hair removal goals.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: Laser hair removal results vary by individual. Not all hair types and colors respond equally to treatment. Consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if laser hair removal is right for you.
Last Updated: January 2025