Choosing a resurfacing or scar treatment in Gangnam
Acne scars come in several shapes, and the same treatment does not suit all of them. This hub explains the main routes, including lasers, microneedling, and scar-specific procedures, and what to ask so that the plan matches your scars and your calendar.
How to choose
Identify the scar type
Rolling, boxcar, and icepick scars respond to different methods. Ask the doctor which you have and why that guides the choice.
Weigh depth against downtime
Deeper resurfacing may do more per session and also takes longer to heal. Be realistic about days you can spare.
Ask about skin tone and pigment risk
Some methods carry higher pigment risk in darker skin. The plan should reflect it.
Confirm the device and tip details
For laser and microneedle RF options, ask for the model, depth, and whether tips are new.
Expect a sequence of treatments
Scar improvement is usually gradual and may combine methods. Ask how the sequence is planned.
Resurfacing & Scars treatments compared
| Treatment | Often chosen for | Works on | Time | Downtime | Sessions | At Gangnam Skin Clinic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CO2 Fractional Laser | Deeper texture and scars; those who accept longer recovery | Ablative, columns of tissue vaporized | about 30-60 minutes plus numbing time | about 5-7 days of redness, crusting and peeling | often 2-4 sessions, 1-2 months apart | from ₩300,000 |
| Erbium Fractional Laser | Moderate texture with a shorter recovery | Ablative, shallower than CO2 | about 20-45 minutes plus numbing time | about 3-7 days of redness and fine crusting; varies by depth | often 2-4 sessions, about 4-8 weeks apart | On consultation |
| Non-Ablative Fractional Laser (Fraxel-type) | Mild scars and texture; those preferring less downtime | Heat columns, surface left intact | about 20-40 minutes plus numbing time | about 2-4 days of redness, swelling and a bronzed look | often 3-5 sessions, about 4 weeks apart; varies by person | On consultation |
| Microneedle RF | Scars, pores, and texture with mild downtime | Needles plus RF at chosen depth | about 20-40 minutes plus numbing time | about 2-5 days of redness or small marks | often 3-5 sessions, about 4 weeks apart | from ₩350,000 |
| Microneedling | Mild scars and texture | Mechanical micro-channels, no energy | about 30-60 minutes including numbing time | about 1-3 days of redness | often 3-6 sessions, about 4 weeks apart | On consultation |
| Subcision for Acne Scars | Tethered rolling scars | Release of fibrous bands beneath the scar | about 20-40 minutes | about 1-2 weeks of bruising and swelling; varies by person | often 1-3 sessions, several weeks apart | On consultation |
| TCA CROSS for Icepick Scars | Narrow icepick scars | Focal acid applied inside each scar | about 15-30 minutes | about 5-7 days of small dark crusts | often 3-5 sessions, about 4-6 weeks apart | On consultation |
Times, downtime and sessions are typical ranges and vary by person. Prices are in Korean won and include 10% VAT. Final costs may change after the doctor's consultation depending on skin condition and dosage. Prices shown are valid as of October 2026 and are for reference only.
When a doctor may advise waiting
- People with active acne flares or infection in the area, who may need to wait.
- Anyone taking or recently finished with isotretinoin, unless the doctor advises otherwise.
- Those with a tendency to keloid or raised scars, without a doctor's assessment.
Resurfacing & Scars: common questions
Which treatment suits acne scars?
There is no single answer. It depends on scar type, skin tone, and recovery tolerance, and the doctor decides after examination.
Can scars be removed entirely?
Improvement is possible, but complete removal is not typical. Expect gradual change.
How long should I wait after isotretinoin?
The doctor sets the interval. Tell them about any recent course.
Can methods be combined?
Often, with spacing set by the doctor.
Book a consultation at Gangnam Skin Clinic
Send your preferred date, the concern you want to discuss and a recent photo if you like. Our coordinators reply in English, Korean and Japanese.
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- Area
- Sinsa, Gangnam
- Nearest station
- Sinsa Station (Line 3)
- Mon - Fri
- 10:00 - 19:00
- Thu
- 10:00 - 21:00 (late clinic)
- Sat
- 10:00 - 15:00
- Sun & public holidays
- Closed