Oxygen Therapy Facials in Korea: 2025 Guide to Prices, Benefits & What to Expect

If you're looking for instant skin hydration, radiance, and soothing without any downtime, oxygen therapy facials (산소테라피) have become a Seoul skincare staple. This gentle, relaxing treatment delivers 90%+ concentrated oxygen combined with 3 million negative ions directly to your skin—triggering cellular regeneration, calming inflammation, and creating an immediate dewy, glowing complexion.

Unlike aggressive treatments that strip or damage skin, oxygen therapy works with your skin's natural processes. The high-pressure oxygen stream pushes hydrating serums deep into pores, while negative ions neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation. The result? Plump, luminous, refreshed skin in just 30-40 minutes, with zero recovery time.

Korean dermatology clinics offer oxygen therapy at remarkably affordable prices—₩30,000-87,000 ($23-$67) per session—making it one of the most accessible professional treatments. Perfect as a standalone hydration boost, pre-event glow enhancer, or post-laser soothing treatment, it's no wonder oxygen therapy has become the go-to "lunch break facial" in Seoul.

What is Oxygen Therapy?

Oxygen therapy (also known as O2 therapy or oxygen facial) is a non-invasive skincare treatment that uses pressurized oxygen to deliver concentrated serums into the skin. Korean clinics typically use specialized devices like O2Dome or similar medical-grade systems that generate:

• 90%+ pure oxygen (vs. 21% in regular air)
• 3 million+ negative ions per session
• Pressurized delivery for deep penetration
• Cooling effect for comfort and pore tightening

How It Works

The Science Behind Oxygen Therapy:

1. High-Concentration Oxygen: Delivers 4-5x more oxygen than normal air, saturating skin cells
2. Negative Ion Generation: Neutralizes free radicals (positive ions) that cause oxidative stress and aging
3. Enhanced Absorption: Pressure gently pushes serums and oxygen deep into pores
4. Cellular Activation: Oxygen-rich environment speeds up cell metabolism and regeneration
5. Collagen Stimulation: Increased oxygen boosts fibroblast activity for collagen production

The Dome Technology:

Most Korean clinics use dome-shaped devices that enclose your face in an oxygen-rich environment:

• Enclosed space concentrates oxygen delivery
• Consistent pressure ensures even distribution
• Cooling effect soothes and calms skin
• Hands-free comfort (you can relax completely)

Key Components

Pure Oxygen: Medical-grade oxygen at high concentration Negative Ions: Natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect Infusion Serums: Hyaluronic acid, vitamins, peptides, or customized ampoules Gentle Pressure: Drives ingredients deeper without needles or pain

Benefits of Oxygen Therapy

Immediate Results (Same Day)

Within 1-2 Hours:

• Instant Hydration: Skin feels plump, dewy, moisturized
• Radiant Glow: Luminous, healthy-looking complexion
• Reduced Redness: Calming effect on inflammation
• Smoother Texture: Softer, more refined skin surface
• Tightened Pores: Cooling effect temporarily minimizes pores
• Refreshed Appearance: Look well-rested and revitalized

Perfect Pre-Event Treatment: Popular before weddings, photoshoots, important meetings

Short-Term Benefits (1-2 Weeks)

• Enhanced skin hydration retention
• Continued radiance and glow
• Improved makeup application (smooth base)
• Calm, balanced skin
• Reduced sensitivity

Long-Term Benefits (With Regular Treatments)

After 5-10 Sessions:

• Improved Skin Health: Strengthened barrier function
• Anti-Aging Effects: Increased collagen production slows aging
• Reduced Acne: Oxygen kills acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes thrives in low-oxygen environments)
• Even Skin Tone: Reduced dullness and pigmentation
• Resilient Skin: Better able to resist environmental damage

Why Oxygen Works

1. Oxygen Kills Acne Bacteria: P. acnes is anaerobic (hates oxygen). High oxygen environments inhibit bacterial growth.

2. Free Radical Neutralization: Negative ions neutralize harmful free radicals that cause:

• Collagen breakdown
• Inflammation
• Premature aging
• Dullness

3. Enhanced Product Penetration: Pressurized delivery pushes serums 10-20x deeper than manual application

4. Cell Metabolism Boost: Oxygen-rich cells function more efficiently:

• Faster regeneration
• Better nutrient absorption
• Improved waste removal

Oxygen Therapy Prices in Korea (2025)

Average Pricing

Average Single Session: ₩50,000-₩70,000 ($38-$54)

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD

Price Factors

What Affects Cost?

• Clinic Location: Gangnam 30-50% higher than other districts
• Serum Quality: Basic hyaluronic acid vs. premium growth factors
• Treatment Duration: 30 min vs. 40-60 min sessions
• Additional Services: LED therapy, massage, masks included
• Device Type: Latest O2Dome models cost more to operate

By Seoul District

Gangnam/Sinsa: ₩70,000-87,000 ($54-67) Myeongdong: ₩50,000-70,000 ($38-54) Hongdae/Other Areas: ₩30,000-60,000 ($23-46)

Package Savings

5 Sessions: Save 15-20% 10 Sessions: Save 25-30%

Recommended Frequency:

• Intensive Hydration: Weekly for 4-6 weeks
• Maintenance: Bi-weekly or monthly
• Pre-Event: Single session 1-2 days before

The Treatment Process

What to Expect

Arrival & Consultation (5 minutes):

• Brief skin assessment
• Discussion of concerns (dryness, acne, sensitivity)
• Serum selection (hyaluronic acid, vitamin, anti-aging)

Preparation (10 minutes):

• Makeup removal and cleansing
• Optional: Gentle exfoliation or toner
• Face positioned under oxygen dome

Oxygen Therapy Treatment (30-40 minutes):

Step 1: Serum Application

• Selected ampoule or serum applied to face
• Typical serums:
  • Hyaluronic acid (hydration)
  • Vitamin C (brightening)
  • Peptides (anti-aging)
  • Centella asiatica (soothing)

Step 2: Oxygen Dome Activation

• Dome lowered over face
• Device activated to generate oxygen and ions
• You'll hear gentle humming sound
• Cool, fresh air sensation
• Completely relaxing—many people nap

Step 3: Infusion Period

• 30-40 minutes of oxygen + negative ion exposure
• Oxygen pressure gently pushes serum into skin
• Negative ions work to neutralize free radicals
• Cooling effect soothes and calms

Step 4: Post-Treatment Care (10 minutes)

• Dome removed
• Optional: Additional serum or moisturizer
• LED light therapy (if included)
• Sunscreen application
• Skin feels incredibly refreshed and hydrated

Total Time: 50-70 minutes (including prep)

Sensation During Treatment

Comfort Level: 0-1 out of 10 (completely painless)

What You'll Feel:

• Cool, gentle air flow on face
• Slight pressure (very comfortable)
• Fresh, clean oxygen scent
• Relaxing, spa-like experience
• No pain, no discomfort whatsoever

Most Relaxing Treatment: Many patients fall asleep during oxygen therapy

Results Timeline

Immediate (Within Hours)

Right After Treatment:

• Dramatically hydrated, plump skin
• Dewy, glowing complexion
• Visibly reduced redness
• Pores appear smaller
• Skin feels soft, smooth, refreshed
• Makeup glides on perfectly

Perfect Timing: Schedule 1-2 days before important events for peak glow

Days 1-3

• Continued hydration
• Maintained radiance
• Calm, balanced skin
• Improved skin texture
• No redness or sensitivity

Week 1-2

• Gradual return to baseline (without regular treatments)
• Skin retains some improved hydration
• Makeup continues to apply smoothly
• Overall healthier appearance

With Regular Treatments (5-10 Sessions)

Cumulative Benefits:

• Sustained hydration and glow
• Improved skin resilience
• Reduced acne breakouts
• More even skin tone
• Visible anti-aging benefits
• Healthier, more vibrant complexion

Duration of Single Treatment: 5-7 days of peak glow, 2-3 weeks of residual benefits

Duration with Maintenance: Indefinite with monthly sessions

Who Should Get Oxygen Therapy?

Ideal Candidates

Perfect For:

• Dehydrated, dry skin - Instant moisture boost
• Dull, tired-looking complexion - Immediate radiance
• Sensitive, reactive skin - Gentle, calming treatment
• Acne-prone skin - Oxygen kills bacteria, reduces inflammation
• Pre-event preparation - Quick glow for special occasions
• Post-procedure soothing - Ideal after laser, peels, microneedling
• Busy professionals - "Lunch break facial" with zero downtime
• First-time treatment seekers - Non-intimidating, comfortable introduction

When Oxygen Therapy Shines

Best Use Cases:

1. Pre-Event Glow: 1-2 days before weddings, photoshoots, important meetings
2. Post-Flight Refresh: Rehydrate after long flights, dry airplane air
3. Post-Laser Soothing: Calm skin after aggressive treatments
4. Weekly Hydration Boost: Regular maintenance for dry climates
5. Acne Calming: Reduce active inflammation and prevent new breakouts
6. Winter Dryness: Combat harsh, dry weather effects

Less Ideal For

Consider Other Treatments If:

• You want dramatic anti-aging results (try RF, HIFU, or threads)
• You need pigmentation removal (laser toning more effective)
• You have severe acne scarring (need microneedling or lasers)
• You want long-lasting results from one session (oxygen is temporary)

Note: Oxygen therapy is excellent but temporary. It's best as regular maintenance or quick boost, not standalone long-term solution.

Aftercare

Immediately After

What to Do:

• ✅ Minimal aftercare needed (zero downtime!)
• ✅ Can apply makeup immediately (though skin looks great without)
• ✅ Resume normal activities right away
• ✅ Drink plenty of water to enhance hydration
• ✅ Use gentle, hydrating skincare

What to Avoid:

• ❌ Harsh exfoliants same day (let skin rest)
• ❌ Very hot water or steam for 12 hours
• ❌ Intense sun exposure without SPF

First 24-48 Hours

Maximize Results:

• Continue hydrating skincare
• Use SPF 30+ if going outside
• Avoid aggressive treatments
• Stay well-hydrated (8+ glasses water)

Long-Term Maintenance

At Home:

• Maintain hydration with good moisturizers
• Use humidifier in dry environments
• Double cleanse to keep pores clear
• Regular SPF to protect from free radical damage

Professional Care:

• Schedule regular sessions based on goals:
  • Intensive: Weekly for 4-6 weeks
  • Maintenance: Bi-weekly or monthly
  • Occasional: Pre-event as needed

Side Effects and Safety

Extremely Safe Treatment

Expected Effects (Not Side Effects):

• None! Oxygen therapy has virtually no side effects
• Skin may be slightly flushed for 30-60 minutes (from improved circulation)
• Possible slight tingling from negative ions (normal, pleasant)

Contraindications

Very few, but avoid if: ❌ Severe respiratory conditions (though medical oxygen therapy exists for this) ❌ Extremely sensitive to pressure (rare) ❌ Active skin infections (wait until healed)

Otherwise: Safe for pregnant women, sensitive skin, all ages, all skin types

Why So Safe?:

• Non-invasive (no needles, no heat, no chemicals)
• Natural substance (oxygen)
• No damage to skin barrier
• No recovery needed
• No risk of scarring, burning, or complications

Combining Oxygen Therapy

Popular Combinations

Oxygen Therapy + LED Light: ₩60,000-110,000 ($46-85)

• Oxygen hydrates and calms
• LED enhances healing (red) or kills bacteria (blue)
• Synergistic anti-aging and acne benefits

Oxygen Therapy After Laser: ₩80,000-150,000 ($62-115)

• Laser treats pigmentation/texture
• Oxygen soothes and speeds healing
• Reduced downtime and irritation

Oxygen Therapy + Skin Scaling: ₩70,000-120,000 ($54-92)

• Scaling cleans pores thoroughly
• Oxygen hydrates and calms post-extraction
• Perfect deep clean + hydration combo

Oxygen Therapy + Aqua Peel: ₩90,000-160,000 ($69-123)

• Aqua Peel deep cleanses
• Oxygen delivers hydration
• Maximum pore clarity + moisture

Treatment Sequence

Same Visit:

1. First: Aggressive treatment (laser, scaling, microneedling)
2. Last: Oxygen therapy (soothing, calming finish)

Separate Visits:

• Weekly alternating (Week 1: Laser, Week 2: Oxygen, repeat)

Why Oxygen Therapy is Perfect for Travelers

Ideal Seoul Vacation Treatment

Perfect For Visitors Because:

1. Zero Downtime: Continue sightseeing immediately
2. Quick: 50-70 minutes total (fits busy itinerary)
3. Affordable: $23-67 (budget-friendly splurge)
4. Non-Intimidating: Gentle introduction to Korean skincare
5. Instant Results: See glow same day for photos
6. No Language Barrier: Simple, straightforward treatment

Suggested Seoul Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive, settle in, explore Day 2: Morning oxygen therapy → afternoon sightseeing with glowing skin Day 3: Continue exploring, take great photos Day 4-5: Optional repeat treatment before departure

Tip: Schedule oxygen therapy mid-trip for sustained glow in photos!

Finding the Right Clinic

What to Look For

Quality Indicators:

• Medical-grade oxygen devices (O2Dome or equivalent)
• Clean, professional environment
• Licensed medical staff
• Quality serums (check brands)
• Clear pricing (no hidden fees)

English Support:

• Many clinics have English-speaking staff
• Treatment is simple enough with translation apps
• Visual consultation works well

Questions to Ask

1. "What device/system do you use?" (Verify it's medical-grade)
2. "What serums are available?" (Choose based on skin needs)
3. "How long is the treatment?" (30-40 min is standard)
4. "Can I add LED therapy?" (Often recommended addition)
5. "Do you offer packages?" (Better value for multiple sessions)

Red Flags

🚩 Extremely low prices (< ₩20,000 - may use inferior equipment) 🚩 Non-medical setting (oxygen therapy is medical device) 🚩 Unclean environment 🚩 No serum options (proper treatment includes infusion) 🚩 Rushed treatment (< 20 minutes too short)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is oxygen therapy the same as hyperbaric oxygen chambers? A: No. Hyperbaric is full-body, high-pressure medical treatment. This is topical facial oxygen therapy for skincare.

Q: Can I do this if I have acne? A: Yes! Oxygen kills acne bacteria and reduces inflammation. Very beneficial for acne-prone skin.

Q: How long do results last? A: Peak glow: 5-7 days. Residual benefits: 2-3 weeks. Regular treatments sustain results indefinitely.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy? A: Yes! Completely safe—it's just oxygen and hydrating serum. No contraindications.

Q: Can I wear makeup after? A: Yes, immediately! But your skin will look so good, you might not want to.

Q: Does it hurt at all? A: Zero pain. It's one of the most relaxing, comfortable treatments available. Many people fall asleep.

Q: Can oxygen therapy replace my moisturizer? A: No—it enhances hydration but you still need daily skincare. Think of it as a professional boost.

Q: Why is oxygen good for skin? A: Oxygen increases cell metabolism, kills anaerobic bacteria, enhances product penetration, and neutralizes free radicals.

Conclusion

Oxygen therapy facials offer the perfect combination of immediate results, complete safety, and affordable pricing. At $23-67 per session in Korea, it's one of the most accessible professional treatments while delivering visible, satisfying results.

Why Oxygen Therapy is Worth It:

✅ Instant Results: Immediate hydration and glow ✅ Zero Downtime: Resume life immediately ✅ Completely Safe: No pain, no risk, no contraindications ✅ Affordable: Fraction of Western spa facial costs ✅ Versatile: Pre-event, post-procedure, or regular maintenance ✅ Relaxing: Most comfortable, spa-like treatment ✅ Accessible: Perfect for first-timers

Best For:

• Pre-event glow seekers
• Dehydrated, dull skin
• Post-procedure soothing
• Sensitive skin types
• Busy schedules (quick treatment)
• Korean skincare beginners
• Anyone wanting instant radiance

Perfect As:

• Quick hydration boost
• Pre-wedding/photoshoot treatment
• Post-flight refresh
• Monthly maintenance
• Soothing after aggressive treatments

Final Verdict: Oxygen therapy won't replace anti-aging procedures or treat severe skin concerns, but that's not its purpose. It excels at what it promises—instant hydration, immediate glow, and complete comfort. For travelers, busy professionals, or anyone wanting a safe, effective skin boost, it's an excellent choice.

Ready to glow? Book an oxygen therapy session at a Seoul dermatology clinic and discover why this gentle treatment has become a Korean skincare essential.

Your most radiant, hydrated skin is just one relaxing session away.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about oxygen therapy facial treatments and is not medical advice. While oxygen therapy is extremely safe with virtually no contraindications, always inform clinic staff of any respiratory conditions or concerns. Ensure treatments are performed with medical-grade devices in proper clinical settings. Results vary based on individual skin type, condition, and lifestyle factors. Oxygen therapy provides temporary hydration and glow—long-term skin health requires comprehensive skincare and sun protection.

Last Updated: November 14, 2025 Reading Time: 9 minutes