Treatment Overview
Dermabrasion is a mechanical skin resurfacing procedure used in Korean dermatology to treat age spots (liver spots), sun-induced pigmentation, scars, and uneven skin texture.
The technique involves using a rotating diamond-tipped or wire brush device to carefully remove the top layers of skin. By exfoliating pigmented keratinocytes and stimulating new collagen production, dermabrasion helps reveal fresher, clearer skin with reduced pigmentation.
Though less commonly performed than lasers in modern Korean dermatology, dermabrasion is still applied for stubborn or raised pigmented lesions and is sometimes combined with lasers or chemical peels for optimal results.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (Spectra, Nd:YAG Toning, Pico Lasers, Fraxel Dual, Clear + Brilliant, Carbon Peel, CO₂, Chemical Peels, Cryotherapy, Dermabrasion):
- Spectra / Nd:YAG Toning: Best for diffuse freckles + PIH.
- BB Laser: Best for sun freckles + age spots.
- Pico Lasers: Resistant or stubborn pigment.
- Fraxel Dual: Pigment + wrinkles + sun damage.
- CO₂ Fractional: Pigment + scars + deep resurfacing.
- Chemical Peels: Surface pigment + dullness.
- Cryotherapy: Best for single isolated liver spots.
- Dermabrasion: Best for surface-level or raised age spots + texture improvement.
Purpose & Benefits
- Age Spot Reduction: Removes pigmented surface cells and reveals brighter skin.
- Skin Renewal: Improves texture, scars, and fine wrinkles alongside pigment clearance.
- One-Time Impact: Can produce more immediate results compared to mild peels.
- Combination-Friendly: Often paired with chemical peels or CO₂ laser in Korea.
- Long-Term Rejuvenation: Stimulates skin regeneration and collagen remodeling.
Ideal Candidates
Dermabrasion in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with age spots (liver spots) or sun-induced pigmentation on the face.
- Patients with pigment + rough texture, fine wrinkles, or superficial scars.
- Individuals seeking mechanical resurfacing rather than laser-based therapy.
Treatment Comparison
- Spectra / Nd:YAG: Best for freckles + PIH with no downtime.
- Pico Laser: Best for stubborn or recurrent age spots.
- CO₂ Laser: Best for deep pigment + wrinkles + scars.
- Cryotherapy: Best for single isolated liver spots.
- Chemical Peel: Best for mild, diffuse pigmentation.
- Dermabrasion: Best for surface-level age spots + textural rejuvenation.
Possible Risks & Complications
Dermabrasion is more invasive than peels or toning, so temporary side effects may occur:
- Redness & Swelling: Can last 1–2 weeks.
- Crusting/Scabbing: Normal healing process.
- Skin Sensitivity: New skin may be pink and tender for weeks.
- Temporary Hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation: More likely in darker skin tones (Korean protocols minimize risk).
- Rare Scarring: If over-aggressive or improperly healed.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Mechanical Resurfacing: Diamond wheel or wire brush abrades the epidermis.
- Layered Depth Control: Removes pigmented keratinocytes without excessive dermal damage.
- Protocol: Usually a single session, though touch-ups may be done after several months.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, swelling, stinging.
- 1–2 Weeks: Crusting and peeling as skin heals.
- 3–4 Weeks: Brighter, clearer skin revealed.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply healing ointments and hydrating creams.
- Strict SPF 50+ sun protection is essential.
- Avoid harsh products (scrubs, acids, retinoids) for at least 2–3 weeks.
- No picking at scabs or peeling skin.
- Minimize sun exposure for 4–6 weeks post-treatment.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Noticeable improvement in age spots + smoother skin.
- 3–6 Months: Continued collagen remodeling improves texture.
- Long-Term: Results last years with proper sun protection, though new age spots may form with UV exposure.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Evaluation – Assess pigmentation depth, skin type, and scar/wrinkle concerns.
- Preparation – Cleansing + local anesthesia or sedation if needed.
- Dermabrasion Session – Controlled resurfacing with diamond-tipped wheel.
- Post-Care – Cooling packs, healing creams, sunscreen.
- Follow-Up – Monitor healing and consider combination therapy (peel/laser) if needed.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean dermatologists excel in precision skin resurfacing while balancing pigmentation safety.
- Often combined with lasers (CO₂, Pico) and brightening boosters for enhanced outcomes.
- More affordable than Western resurfacing procedures.
- Specialized in Asian skin protocols to minimize PIH risk.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 300 – 600
- Localized Treatment (Spots/Small Area): USD 150 – 300
- Premium Programs (Dermabrasion + Laser/Peel): USD 800 – 1,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Rejuran, PN, exosomes, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 In Korea, Dermabrasion is often considered the “manual reset” for stubborn age spots — resurfacing the skin to clear pigment while improving texture and fine wrinkles.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Dermabrasion + laser combo for age spots + scars.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Dermabrasion resurfacing with anti-aging care.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Customized resurfacing for pigmentation + texture.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Dermabrasion + CO₂ Laser for mixed pigment.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium resurfacing with regenerative boosters.
