Treatment Overview
The MedLite C6 Laser is a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm + 532 nm) widely used in Korean dermatology for pigment treatment and skin rejuvenation. Known for its reliability, it delivers nanosecond pulses that shatter melanin clusters into tiny fragments, which are then naturally cleared by the body.
While newer picosecond systems like Discovery Pico or Enlighten are more advanced, the MedLite C6 remains a trusted, cost-effective option in many Korean clinics, especially for freckles, sunspots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and melasma. It is often combined with toning protocols and adjunct brightening therapies to achieve safer, gradual pigment clearance for Asian skin.
Purpose & Benefits
- Pigment Reduction: Targets freckles, sunspots, lentigines, and PIH.
- Melasma Management: Gentle, low-fluence protocols reduce melasma risk of rebound.
- Skin Brightening: Improves overall tone and clarity.
- Collagen Stimulation: Provides mild rejuvenation and pore refinement.
- Proven Safety: Well-studied, widely used in Korea for over a decade.
Ideal Candidates
MedLite C6 Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with freckles, sunspots, or uneven pigmentation.
- Patients with melasma or PIH seeking a safer, gradual approach.
- Individuals not ready for higher-cost Pico lasers but wanting effective pigment care.
- Those who prefer low downtime treatments with gradual improvements.
- People with Asian or darker skin tones prone to PIH.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Redness & Swelling: Temporary, subsides in 1–2 days.
- Darkening of Pigmented Spots: Common, flakes off naturally within a week.
- Crusting or Flaking: Normal as pigment sheds.
- Rare Risks: PIH rebound if overtreated or if sun protection is neglected.
- Gradual Results: Multiple sessions required for visible improvement.
Surgical Techniques Used
- 1064 nm Nd:YAG: Penetrates deeply for dermal pigment and melasma.
- 532 nm Nd:YAG: Targets superficial pigment like freckles and sunspots.
- Q-Switched Nanosecond Pulses: Shatters pigment via photoacoustic effect.
- Laser Toning: Gentle, low-fluence passes for brightening and melasma care.
- Protocol: Typically 5–10 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness, tingling, or warmth.
- 1–3 Days: Pigment darkens slightly; mild dryness possible.
- 3–7 Days: Crusting or flaking of spots.
- 1–2 Weeks: Brighter, clearer tone with reduced pigmentation.
Aftercare Tips:
- Daily use of SPF 50+ sunscreen is mandatory.
- Avoid excessive sun, hot saunas, or intense exercise for 48 hours.
- Use soothing and hydrating creams.
- Do not pick or scratch at crusts.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Fresher skin, mild brightening.
- After 3–5 Sessions: Visible fading of freckles, PIH, and melasma.
- After 6–10 Sessions: Significant pigment reduction and clearer skin tone.
- Long-Term: Maintenance every 6–12 months is common to prevent recurrence.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Consultation & Analysis
- Dermatologist assesses pigment depth and skin sensitivity.
- Melasma patients often undergo careful planning to avoid rebound.
2. Preparation
- Gentle cleansing of the skin.
- Application of protective eyewear.
- Numbing cream not always necessary due to mild discomfort.
3. MedLite C6 Session
- Step 1: Spot-by-spot treatment with 532 nm for superficial lesions.
- Step 2: 1064 nm used for deeper pigment and melasma.
- Step 3: Multi-pass toning across full face for overall brightening.
- Step 4: Cooling mask or serum applied.
- Duration: 20–30 minutes.
4. Post-Treatment Care
- Soothing cream and sunscreen applied before leaving the clinic.
- Patients can return to daily activities immediately.
5. Follow-Up
- 5–10 sessions usually required.
- Often combined with whitening drips, topical brightening agents, or Pico for resistant pigment.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Longstanding Experience: Korean dermatologists have decades of expertise with MedLite C6 for Asian skin.
- Safe Melasma Protocols: Low-fluence toning techniques minimize rebound pigmentation.
- Affordable Packages: More budget-friendly than Pico laser treatments.
- Combination Therapy: MedLite often paired with Pico or Genesis for enhanced results.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 100 – 250
- 5–10 Session Package: USD 500 – 1,200
- Premium Program (MedLite + Whitening Drips + Regenerative Boosters): USD 1,000 – 2,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Vitamin C, TXA, Glutathione drips): USD 100 – 200
- Boosters (PRP, Rejuran, Exosomes): USD 200 – 500
- LED Healing or Cooling Mask: USD 30 – 80
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: MedLite C6 for melasma and PIH management.
- Banobagi Dermatology: MedLite toning combined with Pico for stubborn pigment.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: MedLite with whitening serums and brightening programs.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: MedLite for freckles and combination packages.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: MedLite as part of premium pigment and rejuvenation programs.