Treatment Overview
Melanin Laser Removal refers to pigment-targeting laser treatments used in Korean dermatology to clear sunspots (solar lentigines), freckles, and age spots caused by UV exposure. Clinics typically deploy 755 nm Alexandrite, 532/1064 nm Q-switched or picosecond Nd:YAG, and sometimes 1927 nm fractional thulium for superficial blends. These wavelengths selectively target melanin, breaking it into fine particles that the body gradually clears—while protocols are tuned to minimize post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Asian skin.
Purpose & Benefits
- Precise Sunspot Removal: Selective photothermolysis lifts well-defined UV spots.
- Fast Visible Results: Many sunspots lighten after 1 session.
- Safe for PIH-Prone Skin: Korean low-fluence, multi-pass methods reduce rebound pigmentation.
- Even Tone + Brightness: Overall complexion looks clearer and more uniform.
- Versatile: Addresses freckles, age spots, and mixed superficial pigmentation.
Ideal Candidates
- Adults with distinct, flat sunspots (solar lentigines) or freckles from UV exposure.
- Patients seeking quick clearance of discrete spots or full-face brightening.
- Individuals willing to follow strict sun protection post-treatment.
- Skin types I–IV (darker tones treated cautiously with conservative energy settings).
Possible Risks & Complications
- Redness & Warmth: Common, resolves in hours to a day.
- Micro-Crusting/Scabbing: Pigment can darken, then flake over 3–7 days.
- Temporary Hyper/Hypopigmentation: Usually fades; minimized with proper settings and SPF.
- Rare: Blistering or scarring with overly aggressive parameters or poor aftercare.
Techniques & Devices Used
- Alexandrite 755 nm: High melanin absorption—excellent for distinct lentigines.
- Nd:YAG 532 nm: Superficial brown spots and freckles.
- Nd:YAG 1064 nm (QS/Pico): Deeper or stubborn pigment with lower PIH risk.
- Fractional Thulium 1927 nm (optional): Blends residual superficial mottling and boosts glow.
- Approach: Spot-specific pulses for discrete lesions; low-fluence multi-pass for diffuse freckles/photodamage.
- Protocol: Typically 1–3 sessions for discrete sunspots; 3–5 if diffuse or mixed.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness, warmth, or prickly sensation.
Days 1–3: Darkening (“peppering”) of treated spots; possible micro-crusts.
Days 3–7: Crusts lift naturally; clearer skin appears.
Aftercare Tips:
- SPF 50+ daily; reapply outdoors.
- Gentle cleanser + barrier moisturizer; avoid picking crusts.
- Pause acids/retinoids/exfoliants for 5–7 days.
- Limit heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 48–72 hours.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Many sunspots lighten or slough off.
- After 2–3 Sessions: High clearance of residual spots and improved evenness.
- Long-Term: Results last if UV exposure is controlled; new sun can create new spots—maintenance may be done every 6–12 months.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
- Visual/Dermatoscope exam distinguishes sunspots vs melasma vs PIH.
- Device/wavelength chosen by spot depth, color, and skin type.
Preparation
- Photos, gentle cleanse, protective eyewear; numbing optional (usually not needed for spot work).
Melanin Laser Session
- Step 1: Test pulse or conservative starting fluence.
- Step 2: Spot-specific Alexandrite or 532 nm for discrete lesions; 1064 nm for deeper pigment/PIH-prone skin; optional 1927 nm pass for overall blending.
- Step 3: Soothing gel/mask; SPF applied.
- Duration: 10–25 minutes depending on number of lesions/area.
Post-Treatment Care
- Written aftercare, pigment-safe routine (hydration, no picking, daily SPF).
Follow-Up
- Review at 3–4 weeks; repeat if needed.
- Combination with brightening peels, iontophoresis, or whitening serums for persistent mottling.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Asian-Skin-First Protocols: Low-fluence, staged passes to curb PIH.
- Combination Culture: Lasers paired with TXA/Vitamin C care for durability of results.
- High Device Availability: Alexandrite + QS/Pico Nd:YAG commonly on-site.
- Cost-Effective Packages: Multi-session bundles and add-on brightening care.
Cost Range (Estimated, Korea)
- Single Spot (per spot): USD 40 – 90
- Full Face Session (discrete + diffuse): USD 150 – 300
- 2–3 Session Package (full face): USD 400 – 800
- Premium Combination (Laser + Peel/Serums/Boosters): USD 900 – 1,600
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Vitamin C/TXA serums, whitening drips): USD 100 – 200
- Boosters (PRP, Rejuran, exosomes): USD 200 – 500
What affects price: number/size of spots, device type (Pico often higher), clinic reputation, and add-on therapies.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Alexandrite/ND:YAG for sunspots and freckles.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Picosecond + Alexandrite for stubborn lentigines.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Melanin laser removal with brightening aftercare.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Laser + fractional blending for tone + texture.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium pigment programs with regenerative boosters.
Quick Comparison: When to Choose What
- Distinct dark sunspots: Alexandrite 755 first-line.
- Diffuse freckles/mottling or PIH-prone skin: 1064 nm QS/Pico low-fluence multi-pass.
- Superficial haze/overall glow after spot clearing: 1927 nm fractional add-on.
- Very sensitive skin / high downtime aversion: Stage treatments over multiple lighter sessions.
