Treatment Overview
The Dermamelan Peel is a professional depigmentation treatment developed as the stronger medical counterpart to Cosmelan. It is specifically designed to treat moderate to severe hyperpigmentation, including melasma, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), sunspots, freckles, and stubborn uneven tone.
Like Cosmelan, it works by inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme activity, the key enzyme responsible for melanin production, while also accelerating cell turnover to fade existing pigment. In Korea, Dermamelan is often chosen for patients with resistant melasma or recurrent pigmentation that hasn’t responded fully to lasers or milder peels.
Purpose & Benefits
- Potent Pigment Control: Targets stubborn melasma, PIH, and solar pigmentation.
- Melanin Suppression: Prevents new pigment formation at the root.
- Skin Brightening: Creates a more even and luminous complexion.
- Anti-Aging Benefits: Improves skin quality, reduces roughness and fine lines.
- Safe for Asian Skin: When applied by dermatologists with proper protocols.
Ideal Candidates
Dermamelan Peel in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with moderate to severe melasma.
- Individuals with persistent PIH from acne or past treatments.
- Adults with stubborn sunspots, freckles, or lentigines.
- Patients who tried laser pigmentation treatments but need deeper depigmentation.
- Those seeking medical-grade, long-term pigment control.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Redness & Peeling: Significant in the first 1–2 weeks as skin sheds.
- Dryness & Tightness: Common during initial recovery.
- Burning or Sensitivity: Temporary, especially in the first days.
- Rare Risks: PIH if sun protection or aftercare is neglected.
- Downtime: More peeling and irritation than Cosmelan.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Step 1: In-Clinic Dermamelan Peel Application
- A depigmenting mask applied by dermatologist, left on for 6–12 hours.
- Step 2: At-Home Maintenance
- Use of Dermamelan cream and skincare products daily for 3–6 months.
- Step 3: Supportive Care
- Soothing creams, hydrating serums, and strict sun protection.
- Combination Therapy: May be paired with Pico or Q-switched lasers after initial recovery.
- Protocol: Typically one in-clinic peel, with months of at-home care.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately (First Week): Redness, peeling, and sensitivity are common.
- 1–2 Weeks: Peeling continues; pigmentation starts to lighten.
- 1 Month: Brighter tone and clearer skin become visible.
- 3–6 Months: Significant improvement in melasma and PIH.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily; avoid all direct sun exposure.
- Use only dermatologist-recommended hydrating and soothing creams.
- Do not use strong exfoliants, acids, or retinoids during recovery.
- Avoid picking at peeling skin.
- Consistently apply Dermamelan home cream as instructed.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Peel: Visible lightening within 2–4 weeks.
- After 1–3 Months: Substantial reduction in melasma and PIH.
- After 6 Months: Long-lasting clarity and even skin tone.
- Long-Term: Maintenance treatments or repeat peel yearly may be needed for chronic melasma.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Consultation & Skin Analysis
- Dermatologist determines pigmentation severity and reviews past treatments.
- Patients with recurrent melasma often considered ideal candidates.
2. In-Clinic Peel Application
- Step 1: Skin cleansed and prepped.
- Step 2: Dermamelan mask applied and left for several hours.
- Step 3: Patient goes home with mask on, removes it after designated time.
3. At-Home Maintenance Program
- Daily application of Dermamelan cream for several months.
- Supportive soothing and hydrating skincare prescribed.
4. Post-Treatment Monitoring
- Follow-ups scheduled every few weeks to assess skin’s progress.
- Adjustments to home care based on sensitivity and results.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Specialized Melasma Protocols: Korean dermatologists adapt Dermamelan for Asian skin types.
- Combination-Oriented Care: Often paired with Pico, Q-switched, or whitening drips after stabilization.
- Barrier Protection Focus: Strong emphasis on skin hydration and barrier recovery post-peel.
- Comprehensive Programs: Includes peel, aftercare kits, and follow-up visits for safety.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Dermamelan Peel (includes peel + follow-up): USD 700 – 1,200
- Full Program (Peel + Home Cream + 3–6 Months Maintenance): USD 1,200 – 2,000
- Premium Package (Dermamelan + Laser + Whitening Drips): USD 1,800 – 3,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Whitening drips, Vitamin C, TXA infusions): USD 100 – 200
- Regenerative Boosters (PRP, Rejuran, Exosomes): USD 200 – 600
- LED or Cooling Mask Therapy: USD 30 – 80
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Dermamelan for severe melasma and PIH.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Dermamelan + Pico for resistant pigmentation.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Dermamelan with whitening drips for comprehensive brightening.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Dermamelan for stubborn pigmentation combined with lasers.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium Dermamelan programs with regenerative boosters.
