Treatment Overview
Aqua Peel (also known as HydraFacial in Western clinics) is a non-invasive Korean skin treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, extracts impurities, and hydrates the skin using a multi-step aqua-based system. The treatment uses a specialized device that infuses AHA, BHA, and nourishing serums while suctioning out excess sebum and dead skin cells.
For enlarged pores, Aqua Peel is highly effective because it removes blackheads, clears sebum buildup, and refines skin texture, helping pores look smaller and less visible. It is one of the most popular pore treatments in Korean dermatology clinics, especially for oily and combination skin types.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Enlarged Pores family (Carbon Laser Peel, MicroNeedling RF, Exosome Therapy, Chemical Peels):
- Aqua Peel: Best for deep cleansing + pore tightening + hydration.
- Carbon Laser Peel: Best for oily skin + pore contraction.
- MicroNeedling RF: Best for enlarged pores + tightening + texture.
- Exosome Therapy: Best for pore repair + cellular regeneration.
Purpose & Benefits
- Pore Cleansing: Removes blackheads, whiteheads, and sebum buildup.
- Pore Tightening: Improves elasticity around pores, making them less visible.
- Exfoliation: Gently clears dead skin and smooths rough texture.
- Hydration Boost: Infuses HA and serums to restore skin balance.
- Oil Control: Balances sebum production to prevent clogged pores.
- Brightening Effect: Improves skin tone and glow.
- Synergy with Other Treatments: Often combined with lasers, RF, or PN boosters.
Ideal Candidates
Aqua Peel in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults and teens with enlarged pores, blackheads, or oily skin.
- Patients with clogged pores, rough texture, or dull complexion.
- Those seeking a gentle, hydrating alternative to harsh chemical peels.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- Aqua Peel: Best for cleansing + hydration + pore care.
- Carbon Laser Peel: Best for oily skin and pore contraction.
- MicroNeedling RF: Best for tightening and pore size reduction.
- Exosome Therapy: Best for long-term pore and skin quality improvement.
Possible Risks & Complications
Aqua Peel is very safe, but mild side effects may include:
- Redness or Sensitivity: Temporary, resolves within a few hours.
- Tightness: Mild, due to deep cleansing.
- Rare Risks: Irritation if used on highly sensitive or acne-inflamed skin (minimized with expert care).
Surgical Techniques Used
Though non-surgical, Aqua Peel requires device-based precision:
- Step 1 – Cleansing & Exfoliation: AHA solution removes dead skin cells.
- Step 2 – Extraction: BHA solution dissolves sebum and clears pores.
- Step 3 – Hydration: Infusion of HA, peptides, and antioxidants.
- Step 4 – Protection: Soothing serums to strengthen barrier.
- Protocol: 1 session every 2–4 weeks; maintenance monthly.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Skin feels smoother, fresher, and hydrated.
- 1–2 Days: Pores appear cleaner, redness fades.
- 2–4 Weeks: With repeated sessions, pore size visibly reduces.
- Maintenance: Monthly sessions for best results.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid makeup for 12–24 hours.
- Apply SPF 50+ daily.
- Use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants or retinoids for 2–3 days.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Smoother, clearer skin with reduced oiliness.
- Short-Term (1–2 Weeks): Blackheads and clogged pores significantly reduced.
- Medium-Term (1–3 Months): Pores appear tighter and less visible.
- Long-Term: With regular maintenance, pores remain refined and skin texture improves.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor assesses pore size and skin type.
- Preparation – Cleansing and pre-treatment exfoliation.
- Aqua Peel Session – Device delivers AHA/BHA exfoliation, sebum extraction, and hydration infusion.
- Optional Add-Ons – Carbon laser peel, RF microneedling, or exosomes for pore tightening.
- Post-Care – Soothing masks, cooling serums, or LED therapy.
- Follow-Up – Maintenance treatments every 3–4 weeks.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea is world-renowned for pore refinement and skin-cleansing treatments.
- Clinics use authentic, KFDA-approved Aqua Peel devices and solutions.
- Dermatologists specialize in multi-step pore care with hydration-focused protocols.
- More affordable than Western clinics, with superior results.
- Seoul is globally known for glass skin and pore-minimizing expertise.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Aqua Peel in Korea varies by clinic and package:
- Single Session (full face): USD 100 – 200
- 3–5 Session Package (recommended): USD 250 – 600
- Aqua Peel + Carbon Laser / RF Microneedling: USD 300 – 600 per session
- Premium Pore Package (Aqua Peel + Exosomes + LED/Lasers): USD 800 – 1,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 10 – 30
- Add-ons (serums, exosomes, boosters): USD 50 – 300
💡 Patients often call Aqua Peel the “pore cleansing + glow booster”, since it clears impurities while leaving skin hydrated and radiant.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Known for Aqua Peel + pore-tightening lasers.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Offers Aqua Peel + RF microneedling combos.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Specialized in Aqua Peel for oily and acne-prone skin.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Provides Aqua Peel with exosome pore care.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium Aqua Peel + multi-step anti-aging programs.
