Treatment Overview
Growth Factor Injection is an advanced dermatology treatment in Korea designed for patients with cystic acne and post-acne damage. Instead of focusing only on shrinking inflammation (like cortisone or steroid injections), Growth Factor Injections deliver bioactive proteins and peptides directly into the skin to promote healing, reduce inflammation, stimulate regeneration, and prevent scarring.
These injections help the skin repair itself by activating fibroblasts and accelerating collagen production, making them particularly useful for deep, inflamed acne lesions that normally risk leaving long-lasting scars. In Korean dermatology clinics, growth factor therapy is often paired with subcision, microneedling (MTS), or laser toning to maximize results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Anti-Inflammatory Action: Calms redness, swelling, and pain in cystic acne.
- Accelerated Healing: Speeds up skin recovery from inflamed nodules.
- Scar Prevention: Reduces the risk of deep, permanent acne scars.
- Collagen Stimulation: Strengthens skin structure and improves resilience.
- Tissue Regeneration: Promotes healthier skin around treated areas.
- Gentle Alternative: Suitable for patients who want to avoid steroids.
Ideal Candidates
Growth Factor Injection in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with cystic or nodular acne prone to scarring.
- Individuals with sensitive skin who wish to avoid steroid-based injections.
- Those with post-acne redness or early scar formation.
- Patients seeking a regenerative, healing-focused acne therapy.
- Individuals combining acne control with skin rejuvenation goals.
Possible Risks & Complications
Growth Factor Injections are generally safe, but mild side effects may include:
- Redness or Tenderness: At the injection site, lasting 1–2 days.
- Mild Swelling: Temporary, usually resolves quickly.
- Rare Risks: Allergic reaction, minimized in Korean clinics using purified medical-grade growth factors.
Unlike steroid injections, risks like skin thinning or hypopigmentation are extremely rare.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Direct Growth Factor Micro-Injection: Administered precisely into cystic or inflamed areas.
- Customized Formulas: Often combined with peptides, vitamins, or exosomes for enhanced healing.
- Adjunctive Therapies: May be paired with microneedling or laser for better absorption.
Protocol: Spot injection as needed, or combined with acne scar protocols over several sessions.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness or sensitivity at injection sites.
1–2 Days: Inflammation decreases, acne lesions feel less painful.
1–2 Weeks: Lesion shrinks, healing is accelerated, and scarring risk decreases.
Aftercare Tips:
- Use gentle, hydrating skincare to support healing.
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids, or acids for 3–5 days.
- Follow dermatologist’s instructions if combined with other procedures.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Faster calming of cystic acne, reduced pain and redness.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Clearer skin, lower risk of post-acne scars.
- Long-Term: Healthier skin regeneration and better resistance against future breakouts.
Growth Factor Injections are often used in combination with long-term acne therapies (lasers, peels, or RF) for durable results.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist examines cystic acne activity and skin healing capacity.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing; numbing cream may be applied for comfort.
Growth Factor Injection Session
- Step 1: Customized growth factor solution prepared.
- Step 2: Ultra-fine needle delivers solution into cystic acne or scar-prone areas.
- Step 3: Cooling mask or LED red light therapy applied post-treatment to boost recovery.
Duration: 15–20 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Patients can return to normal activities immediately; mild redness fades within 24 hours.
Follow-Up
Multiple sessions may be recommended depending on acne severity and scar risk.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Regenerative Focus: Unlike steroid injections, Korean clinics emphasize scar prevention and healing.
- Advanced Serums: Often combined with exosomes, peptides, or stem cell-derived growth factors.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Protocols minimize pigmentation and irritation risks.
- Combination Programs: Frequently paired with subcision, MTS, or laser toning for comprehensive results.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Growth Factor Injection (per lesion): USD 50 – 100
- Multiple Lesions (same session): USD 120 – 200
- Injection + LED/Soothing Care: USD 150 – 250
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Program (per visit): USD 100 – 150
- Acne Care Program (3 sessions with LED or peeling add-ons): USD 400 – 700
- Premium Program (3–5 sessions with Exosomes/PRP/Rejuran boosters): USD 900 – 1,500
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Growth factor injections for acne and scar prevention.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Customized regenerative acne injection programs.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Growth factor therapy combined with LED healing.
- View Dermatology: Acne care protocols with growth factor add-ons.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium acne + regenerative booster injections.
