Fraxel Laser Treatment in Seoul, Korea
What is Fraxel Laser Treatment?
- Fraxel laser is a fractional laser resurfacing treatment. It works by creating thousands of microscopic laser columns in the skin (leaving surrounding tissue intact) to stimulate collagen production and new skin growth.
- There are different versions (non‐ablative vs ablative) depending on how much skin surface is removed/treated:
- Non-ablative (e.g., Fraxel Re:store) – less downtime, gentler.
- Ablative (e.g., Fraxel Re:pair) – more aggressive, for deeper issues, more downtime.
- Common uses in Seoul clinics: improving skin texture, acne scars, pigmentation, sun damage, fine lines and enlarged pores.
Why Choose Seoul for Fraxel?
- Seoul is a major aesthetic dermatology hub with many clinics offering advanced laser treatments including Fraxel, with experienced dermatologists and up-to-date devices.
- Clinics often cater to international patients (English support, transparent pricing) which is helpful if you're traveling from outside Korea.
- Because you are based in Gyeonggi-do (near Seoul), logistic access (consultation, treatment, follow-up) is relatively convenient.
What to Expect: Procedure & Recovery
Consultation & Planning
- A dermatologist will assess your skin condition: scar depth, tone/texture, pigmentation, skin type (important for Korean/Asian skin or darker types).
- They will recommend appropriate Fraxel settings (wavelength, energy), number of sessions, areas to treat, and downtime expectations.
On Treatment Day
- Topical numbing cream is typically applied (30-60 min) to reduce discomfort. Seoul Guide Medical
- The Fraxel device is applied over the area: lasers deliver fractional columns into the skin. Duration typically ~20-40 minutes depending on area.
- After treatment you may feel warmth or stinging; skin may look red, may feel like a mild sunburn.
After-care & Recovery
- Downtime depends on how aggressive the treatment:
- For gentler/non-ablative settings: redness + mild peeling for ~3-5 days. Seouldermatologyclinic+1
- For more intense/ablative sessions: peeling, crusting, longer healing time (1-2 weeks or more).
- Post-treatment: skin care with soothing, sun protection is critical. Avoid strong exposures.
- Results are gradual: as collagen rebuilds, you’ll see improvements in texture, tone, scarring over weeks/months.
What It Can Treat / Key Benefits
- Improves acne scars (especially surface/texture types) by resurfacing and stimulating collagen. Seouldermatologyclinic+1
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture and pore size.
- Helps with pigmentation / sun damage / uneven skin tone in many cases.
- Minimal downtime (especially for gentler settings) compared to older fully ablative lasers—makes it more convenient for many patients.
Suitability & Limitations
Good candidates:
- Individuals with skin concerns like acne scars (mild–moderate), texture issues, sun damage or uneven tone.
- Those who are willing to undergo multiple sessions and follow proper after-care to achieve optimal results.
- People with realistic expectations: improvement (not perfect elimination of all issues).
Considerations / Limitations:
- If you have very deep depressed scars or major skin laxity, surface laser like Fraxel may need to be combined with other treatments (subcision, fillers, or surgery) for best result.
- People with very dark skin tones or melanin-rich skin should be cautious: fractional lasers carry a risk of pigmentation changes/hypopigmentation; the clinic needs to have experience with darker skin types.
- Downtime and cost increase with more aggressive settings.
- Multiple sessions may be required for full effect (3-5 or more). Seouldermatologyclinic
Cost Range in Seoul – Ballpark Figures
- According to one source: Approx USD 300–700 for Fraxel laser in Korea (~ ₩435,000 – ₩1,015,000 KRW) depending on settings and area.
- Another clinic’s guide:
- Full face Fraxel: ~ ₩250,000 – ₩600,000 KRW per session. Seouldermatologyclinic
- Spot treatment (scars/pigment): ~ ₩100,000 – ₩300,000 KRW.
- These are approximate—actual quote will depend on which clinic, device version, area size, number of sessions, etc.
Key Questions to Ask Your Clinic
- Which version of Fraxel laser will you use (wavelengths, device model, settings) for my concerns?
- How many sessions do you estimate are needed for my skin condition (texture/scars/pigment)?
- What downtime should I expect with the chosen settings?
- For my skin tone (especially if darker), what protocols will you use to minimize pigmentation/hypopigmentation risk?
- What is included in the quote (consultation, numbing, follow-up, after-care)?
- Can you show before/after photos for patients with similar concerns (scars/pigment/texture) and similar skin type?
- How soon can I resume other skincare treatments (chemical peels, microneedling) or makeup?
- What after-care instructions will you provide (sun protection, skincare, avoid certain activities)?
Practical Tips & How to Prepare
- Before: Ensure you’re not using new aggressive skincare treatments just before, protect skin from sun exposure for weeks pre-treatment, discuss any medications/skin conditions with the dermatologist.
- On the day: Arrive with minimal makeup, ask about numbing cream and comfort options, discuss which areas will be treated.
- After treatment:
- Expect redness/heat/swelling like sunburn; use soothing creams as advised.
- Use high-SPF sunscreen every day.
- Avoid heavy sun exposure, exfoliants, strong skincare for the recommended period.
- Stay hydrated, support healing.
- Maintenance: Book follow-up sessions as recommended (often every 4-6 weeks). Maintain healthy skincare, sun protection, healthy lifestyle to support results.
