Hair Loss & Scalp Treatments in Korea: Clinics, Prices & What Actually Works
Hair loss treatment in Korea has become a major draw for medical tourists worldwide, and for good reason. Korean dermatology clinics combine advanced regenerative medicine, competitive pricing, and a level of specialization that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you are dealing with early thinning, androgenetic alopecia, or stress-related shedding, Seoul's clinics offer a full spectrum of solutions, from prescription medication costing just a few dollars a month to sophisticated stem-cell-based injections and full hair transplant surgery.
This guide breaks down every major treatment option, what it actually costs in 2026, and how to navigate the process as an international visitor.
Why Korea for Hair Loss Treatment?
Korea is home to some of the world's most experienced hair restoration specialists. The country's dermatology infrastructure is dense, particularly in Seoul's Gangnam and Jongno districts, where dozens of clinics compete on price, technology, and results. Because hair loss treatments are classified as non-covered (non-insurance, or "bigeupyeo") procedures in Korea, clinics set their own prices, and competition keeps costs significantly lower than in the US, UK, or Australia.
Add to that a culture that takes hair health seriously, extensive clinical research from Korean universities, and platforms like Modoodoc and Gangnam Unni that let you compare real patient-submitted prices, and you have an ecosystem that is remarkably transparent and accessible.
Types of Hair Loss Treatments Available in Seoul
1. Prescription Medication (Oral & Topical)
The foundation of any hair loss treatment plan in Korea starts with clinically proven medications:
- Finasteride (oral): A prescription DHT-blocker taken daily. Considered the gold standard for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). Requires a doctor's prescription in Korea.
- Dutasteride (oral): A stronger alternative to finasteride, increasingly popular in Korean clinics. Available in affordable generic forms.
- Minoxidil (topical): An over-the-counter vasodilator applied directly to the scalp. Available at any Korean pharmacy without a prescription.
Prices (as of early 2026):
| Medication | Monthly Cost (KRW) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Finasteride (generic) | ~₩15,000 - ₩50,000 | ~$12 - $38 |
| Dutasteride (generic) | ~₩10,000 - ₩20,000 | ~$8 - $15 |
| Minoxidil (OTC, topical) | ~₩15,000 - ₩30,000 | ~$12 - $23 |
| Prescription consultation fee | ~₩5,000 - ₩30,000 | ~$4 - $23 |
For the absolute cheapest prescriptions, locals head to the so-called "hair loss pharmacy meccas" around Jongno 5-ga, where clinics and pharmacies cluster together and offer rock-bottom pricing.
2. PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
PRP is one of the most popular in-clinic scalp treatments in Korea. A small sample of your blood is drawn, processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and then injected directly into the scalp. The growth factors in the concentrated platelets stimulate dormant hair follicles and improve blood circulation to the scalp.
What to expect:
- Sessions last about 30 to 60 minutes
- Typically recommended as a series of 3 to 6 sessions, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart
- New hair growth often visible within 1 to 2 months after starting
- Results can last 6 to 12 months with maintenance sessions
PRP prices in Seoul:
| Clinic Tier | Per Session (KRW) | Per Session (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget clinics | ~₩100,000 - ₩200,000 | ~$77 - $154 |
| Mid-range clinics | ~₩200,000 - ₩300,000 | ~$154 - $231 |
| Premium clinics (Gangnam) | ~₩300,000 - ₩400,000 | ~$231 - $308 |
For comparison, a single PRP session in the US typically runs $500 to $1,500 per session, making Korea's pricing roughly 50 to 75% lower.
3. Scalp Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy involves micro-injections of a customized cocktail of vitamins, growth factors, and DHT-blocking agents directly into the scalp. It is particularly effective for early-stage hair loss and works well as a complementary treatment alongside oral medication.
Key details:
- Sessions are quick, usually under 30 minutes
- A typical course involves 6 to 10 weekly sessions
- Best results seen in patients whose hair follicles are still active (early thinning)
- Not effective for advanced baldness where follicles are already dead
Mesotherapy prices in Seoul:
| Detail | Cost (KRW) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Per session (average) | ~₩100,000 | ~$77 |
| Full course (10 sessions) | ~₩1,000,000 | ~$770 |
4. Exosome Therapy (Stem Cell-Based)
One of the newest and most talked-about treatments in Korean hair restoration is exosome therapy. Exosomes are tiny vesicles derived from stem cells that carry growth signals to damaged tissue. When injected into the scalp, they can reactivate shrinking follicles and promote thicker, healthier hair growth.
Some Seoul clinics combine exosome injections with PRP, MTS (microneedling), and LED light therapy for a multi-pronged approach.
Exosome treatment prices in Seoul:
| Clinic Example | Per Session (KRW) | Per Session (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Gangdong-area clinics | ~₩154,000 - ₩220,000 | ~$118 - $169 |
| Gangnam/Apgujeong clinics | ~₩220,000 - ₩350,000 | ~$169 - $269 |
| Stem cell combo packages | ~₩890,000 - ₩1,360,000 | ~$685 - $1,046 |
5. Hair Transplant Surgery
For more advanced hair loss, Korea is one of the top destinations in the world for hair transplant surgery. Surgeons relocate healthy follicles from the back of the head (donor area) to thinning or bald areas. The two main techniques are FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation).
Hair transplant prices in Seoul (3,000 grafts):
| Level | Cost (KRW) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | ~₩5,000,000 - ₩6,000,000 | ~$3,846 - $4,615 |
| Premium / high-density | ~₩7,000,000 - ₩10,000,000 | ~$5,385 - $7,692 |
In the US, the same procedure typically costs $10,000 to $20,000 or more, making Korea a compelling option for those considering surgical restoration.
Treatment Comparison at a Glance
| Treatment | Best For | Sessions Needed | Cost Range (USD) | Results Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finasteride/Dutasteride | Early to moderate male pattern loss | Daily (ongoing) | $8 - $38/month | 3 - 6 months |
| Minoxidil | General thinning, maintenance | Daily (ongoing) | $12 - $23/month | 2 - 4 months |
| PRP Therapy | Moderate thinning, follicle stimulation | 3 - 6 sessions | $77 - $308/session | 1 - 3 months |
| Mesotherapy | Early thinning, preventive care | 6 - 10 sessions | ~$77/session | 3 - 6 months |
| Exosome Therapy | Advanced regeneration | 3 - 5 sessions | $118 - $269/session | 2 - 4 months |
| Hair Transplant | Advanced baldness, permanent solution | 1 surgery | $3,846 - $7,692 | 6 - 12 months |
Practical Tips for International Patients
- Book a consultation first. Most Seoul clinics offer initial consultations for ₩10,000 to ₩20,000 ($8 to $15). Some waive the fee if you proceed with treatment.
- Look for English-speaking clinics. Areas like Gangnam, Apgujeong, and Myeongdong have clinics accustomed to foreign patients. Maxwell Dermatology and Dr. Scalp are two well-known clinics with English support.
- Use comparison platforms. Modoodoc (modoodoc.com), Gangnam Unni (gangnamunni.com), and Yeoshin Ticket (yeoshin.co.kr) let you compare actual prices submitted by patients and clinics.
- Ask about package deals. Many clinics offer discounted packages when you bundle multiple PRP or mesotherapy sessions together.
- Plan your timeline. Injectable treatments like PRP and mesotherapy require multiple visits over several weeks. If you are visiting Korea on a short trip, discuss a compressed schedule with your clinic.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a prescription for hair loss medication in Korea? A: Finasteride and dutasteride require a doctor's prescription. You can get one through an in-person clinic visit or, if you are in Korea, through a telemedicine platform like DoctorNow. Minoxidil is available over the counter at any pharmacy.
Q: How many PRP sessions do I need to see results? A: Most clinics recommend 3 to 6 initial sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. Many patients notice reduced shedding after 2 to 3 sessions and visible new growth within 1 to 2 months. Maintenance sessions every 3 to 6 months help sustain results.
Q: Is hair transplant surgery in Korea safe for foreigners? A: Yes. Korea performs tens of thousands of hair transplants annually and has some of the world's most experienced surgeons. Reputable clinics provide English-speaking coordinators, detailed aftercare instructions, and follow-up consultations via video call after you return home.
Q: Which treatment is best for early-stage thinning? A: For early thinning, most dermatologists recommend starting with oral medication (finasteride or dutasteride) combined with topical minoxidil. PRP or mesotherapy can accelerate results. Exosome therapy is a newer option with promising early data.
Q: Are these treatments covered by Korean health insurance? A: Most hair loss treatments are classified as non-covered (bigeupyeo) in Korea, meaning you pay out of pocket. However, if diagnosed with a medical condition causing hair loss (such as alopecia areata or seborrheic dermatitis), some costs may be partially covered by Korean insurance.
Conclusion
Korea offers one of the most comprehensive and affordable ecosystems for hair loss treatment in the world. From budget-friendly prescription medication that costs less than a cup of coffee per day to state-of-the-art exosome and PRP therapies at a fraction of Western prices, the options here cater to every stage of hair loss and every budget. The key is to start with a proper diagnosis from a qualified dermatologist, understand which treatments match your situation, and take advantage of Korea's competitive pricing.
Ready to tackle hair loss in Korea? Start by booking a consultation at a foreigner-friendly dermatology clinic in Gangnam or Jongno, and bring this guide along to help you ask the right questions.
Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about hair loss treatments available in South Korea. It is not intended as medical advice. Individual results vary significantly based on the type and stage of hair loss, overall health, and treatment adherence. Always consult with a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional before starting any hair loss treatment. Do not adjust or discontinue medication without professional guidance.
Prices as of early 2026. Actual costs vary by clinic, treatment area, and individual consultation. Exchange rate used: ₩1,300 = $1 USD (subject to fluctuation). Contact clinics directly for current pricing.
Last Updated: February 2026 Reading Time: 7 minutes