Treatment Overview
Growth Factor Therapy is a regenerative dermatology treatment that uses bioactive proteins to stimulate cell repair, collagen regeneration, and tissue healing. These growth factors can be delivered via serums, injections, microneedling, or combined with laser treatments to enhance scar repair.
In Korea, growth factor therapy is commonly used for atrophic acne scars (rolling, boxcar, and ice-pick scars) as well as for post-acne pigmentation and skin thinning. It is often part of a multi-step acne scar protocol, paired with CO₂ fractional lasers, microneedling RF, subcision, or PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for synergistic results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Scar Remodeling: Stimulates fibroblasts to rebuild collagen and elastin.
- Improved Skin Quality: Thickens thinned skin around acne scars.
- Faster Healing: Reduces downtime after laser or microneedling treatments.
- Pigmentation Reduction: Helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Non-Invasive Option: Safe for sensitive or scar-prone skin.
- Synergy with Other Treatments: Boosts results of lasers, microneedling, and PRP.
Ideal Candidates
Growth Factor Therapy in Korea for acne scars is recommended for:
- Patients with atrophic (depressed) acne scars.
- Individuals with thin, weakened skin from chronic acne.
- Adults looking for a regenerative, natural scar-healing option.
- Those undergoing laser or microneedling scar treatments who want faster recovery.
Comparison with Other Treatments:
- Growth Factor Therapy: Best for regeneration and healing support.
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Natural growth factor source from patient’s own blood.
- Rejuran Healer (PN/PNN): DNA fragments that repair and thicken skin.
- CO₂ Fractional Laser: Stronger resurfacing for deep scars.
- Subcision + Fillers: Best for tethered scars requiring volume release.
Possible Risks & Complications
Growth factor therapy is very safe in Korean dermatology clinics. Mild side effects may include:
- Redness or Swelling: Usually mild, lasting a few hours to 1–2 days.
- Temporary Tingling: Common when applied with microneedling.
- Rare Allergic Reaction: Avoided with medical-grade products and testing.
Treatment Techniques Used
- Topical Application: Growth factor serum applied after CO₂ or Fraxel laser.
- Microneedling + Growth Factors: Infused through micro-channels for deeper absorption.
- Injection Therapy: Direct micro-injections into scarred areas.
- Combination Packages: Often paired with PRP, exosomes, or skin boosters.
- Session Protocol: Typically 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness and warmth, especially if combined with lasers.
- 1–3 Days: Skin heals faster than with laser alone.
- 2–4 Weeks: Gradual improvement in scar texture and pigmentation.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply gentle, hydrating creams daily.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants for 5–7 days.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen to prevent PIH.
- Follow dermatologist’s scar care routine for best results.
Results & Longevity
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Skin feels healthier, smoother, and more hydrated.
- Medium-Term (2–3 Months): Noticeable scar improvement and thickened skin.
- Long-Term (6–12 Months): Ongoing collagen stimulation supports lasting scar repair, especially with maintenance.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Scar Evaluation – Doctor assesses scar type and skin thickness.
- Preparation – Cleansing and numbing cream applied (if injections/microneedling).
- Growth Factor Application/Injection – Delivered via microneedling, injections, or post-laser application.
- Optional Add-Ons – CO₂ laser, PRP, or Rejuran combined for stronger regeneration.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask and soothing serums applied.
- Follow-Up – Sessions repeated monthly until results are achieved.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean dermatologists specialize in regenerative scar treatments using growth factors.
- Use of KFDA-approved growth factor formulations with proven clinical safety.
- Multi-step protocols integrate lasers, injectables, and regenerative serums.
- More cost-effective compared to Western clinics, with package pricing.
- Seoul is globally known for acne scar repair and skin regeneration expertise.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Growth Factor Therapy in Korea for acne scars:
- Single Session (serum infusion): USD 150 – 250
- Microneedling + Growth Factor Session: USD 250 – 400
- 3-Session Package: USD 700 – 1,200
- Premium Scar Package (Growth Factors + CO₂ Laser + PRP/Rejuran): USD 1,800 – 3,500 (3–5 sessions)
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (PRP, Rejuran, Exosomes, Subcision): USD 150 – 600
💡 Many patients call Growth Factor Therapy the “scar healing booster”, as it speeds recovery and enhances collagen remodeling when combined with stronger scar treatments.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Banobagi Dermatology – Growth factor + CO₂ laser scar programs.
- Oracle Dermatology – Growth factors with microneedling RF for scars.
- Renewme Skin Clinic – PRP + growth factor combinations for regeneration.
- View Plastic & Dermatology – Growth factors with Rejuran or exosome therapy.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center – Luxury scar repair with growth factors + multi-step therapy.
