Treatment Overview
High-Frequency Therapy is a gentle dermatological treatment offered in Korean skin clinics for acne-prone skin. It uses a high-frequency electrical current delivered through a glass electrode to generate oxygen and mild heat within the skin. This process kills acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes), reduces inflammation, and boosts local circulation.
In Korea, high-frequency therapy is often used as a post-extraction treatment or as part of a multi-step acne program, helping calm irritated skin and prevent secondary infections after comedone removal.
Purpose & Benefits
- Antibacterial Effect: Ozone produced during treatment kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces swelling and redness in active breakouts.
- Healing Support: Speeds up recovery after extractions or acne treatments.
- Sebum Regulation: Balances oil production over time.
- Skin Oxygenation: Improves local blood flow for healthier skin.
Ideal Candidates
High-Frequency Therapy in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with mild to moderate acne.
- Individuals with frequent red, inflamed pimples.
- Patients undergoing acne extractions who need a calming follow-up.
- Those looking for a non-invasive, no-downtime acne solution.
Possible Risks & Complications
When performed under Korean dermatology protocols, risks are minimal, but mild effects may occur:
- Temporary Redness: Usually fades within hours.
- Mild Tingling or Warmth: Normal during treatment.
- Dryness: Possible if done too frequently without moisturizing care.
- Rare Risks: Skin irritation or burns if applied too aggressively (very rare in professional settings).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Glass Electrode Wand: A handheld glass electrode filled with gas delivers high-frequency energy.
- Ozone Production: Generates a bactericidal effect within pores.
- Spot or Full-Face Application: Used for individual pimples or broader acne areas.
- Protocol: 1–2 times weekly, often part of a 4–8 session program.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Skin feels calm and refreshed.
1–2 Days: Redness decreases, pimples begin to flatten.
1 Week: Breakouts start to subside with repeated sessions.
Aftercare Tips:
- Use soothing moisturizers to maintain hydration.
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
- Avoid harsh scrubs or retinoids for 1–2 days.
- Combine with acne skincare for enhanced results.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Acne inflammation reduced, skin feels calmer.
- After 3–4 Sessions: Noticeable decrease in new pimples.
- After 6–8 Sessions: Sustained acne improvement and healthier skin tone.
Maintenance treatments every few weeks help keep acne under control.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist assesses acne severity and skin sensitivity.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing of skin, sometimes followed by extractions.
High-Frequency Session
- Step 1: Glass electrode applied over acne lesions or full face.
- Step 2: Ozone and mild heat generated to kill bacteria.
- Step 3: Soothing mask or serum applied post-treatment.
Duration: 15–20 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Barrier creams and sunscreen applied.
Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
Follow-Up
Usually recommended as part of an acne care program with extractions, peels, or LED therapy.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Integrated Acne Programs: Often included with extraction sessions.
- Custom Protocols: Intensity adjusted for sensitive Asian skin.
- Multi-Step Packages: Frequently combined with LED healing masks or acne peels.
- Affordable & Accessible: Offered as a low-cost add-on in most Korean clinics.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Add-On): USD 30 – 60
- Full-Face High-Frequency: USD 50 – 100
- Combination Programs (with Extraction or LED): USD 150 – 300
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic High-Frequency (3 sessions): USD 100–150
- Acne Program (Extraction + High-Frequency): USD 250–400
- Premium Acne Care (High-Frequency + Peel + LED): USD 500–800
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: High-frequency + extractions for inflamed acne.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Multi-step acne programs with high-frequency add-ons.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: High-frequency + LED calming therapy.
- View Dermatology: Acne control packages with high-frequency + peels.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium acne care with high-frequency and regenerative boosters.
