Treatment Overview
Hyperpigmentation CO₂ Care is a fractional CO₂ laser treatment commonly used in Korea to improve stubborn pigmentation, melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). By delivering ultra-fine beams into the skin, it gently resurfaces the epidermis, removes pigmented cells, and stimulates collagen turnover for clearer, more even-toned skin.
Unlike aggressive resurfacing CO₂ procedures, Hyperpigmentation CO₂ Care uses controlled, fractional ablation to minimize downtime while effectively targeting pigment deposits. It is often combined with brightening boosters like tranexamic acid, exosomes, or PRP to accelerate fading and prevent recurrence.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Sunspots, PIH, Uneven Tone family (Hyperpigmentation CO₂, Pico Toning, Glowing CO₂, Baby CO₂, MTS + Exosomes):
- Hyperpigmentation CO₂: Best for stubborn dark spots & melasma.
- Pico Toning: Best for pigmentation without ablation.
- Glowing CO₂: Best for overall brightness & glow.
- Baby CO₂: Best for mild resurfacing & early pigmentation.
- MTS + Exosomes: Best for prevention + faster healing.
Purpose & Benefits
- Pigment Removal: Reduces melasma, sunspots, and PIH.
- Even Skin Tone: Restores clarity and balance.
- Collagen Renewal: Repairs photodamage and strengthens skin.
- Texture Refinement: Improves roughness caused by pigmentation clusters.
- Pore Tightening: Secondary benefit from fractional resurfacing.
- Brightening Boost: Promotes natural radiance and glow.
Ideal Candidates
Hyperpigmentation CO₂ Care in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with melasma or persistent sunspots.
- Individuals with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne or irritation.
- Adults with uneven, blotchy, or dull skin tone.
- Men and women who have not responded well to topical whitening agents.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Hyperpigmentation CO₂: Best for resistant pigment + melasma.
- Pico Toning: Best for mild pigmentation with minimal downtime.
- Glowing CO₂: Best for overall brightness + glow.
- Baby CO₂: Best for mild pigmentation + prevention.
- MTS + Exosomes: Best for post-treatment skin recovery + pigment control.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although safe in skilled Korean clinics, side effects may include:
- Redness & Swelling: Mild, resolves in 3–7 days.
- Flaking & Peeling: As pigmented cells shed.
- Temporary Darkening (PIH): Common in Asian skin; minimized with sun protection.
- Rare Risks: Over-treatment may worsen melasma if not managed properly.
Surgical Techniques Used
Hyperpigmentation CO₂ Care uses gentle fractional resurfacing:
- Laser Device: Fractional CO₂ systems (eCO₂, UltraPulse).
- Pigment Ablation: Removes melanin clusters in the epidermis.
- Fractional Channels: Induce collagen remodeling + cell turnover.
- Target Zones: Sunspots, melasma patches, uneven tone.
- Protocol: 2–4 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart; maintenance every 6–12 months.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness and swelling.
- 3–7 Days: Pigment crusting, peeling, and fading.
- 2–4 Weeks: Clearer, more even skin tone.
- 3–6 Months: Continued pigment fading with collagen renewal.
Aftercare Tips:
- Strict daily sunscreen (SPF 50+) to prevent recurrence.
- Avoid direct sun and overheating (sauna, hot yoga).
- Use pigment-reducing topicals (tranexamic acid, arbutin, niacinamide).
- Avoid harsh scrubs and whitening creams until cleared by doctor.
- Consider combination therapy (Pico toning, exosomes) for faster results.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Pigment spots appear darker as they crust.
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Spots fade, skin appears clearer.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Continued reduction in pigmentation.
- Long-Term: Results last 1–2 years with sun protection; melasma may require maintenance.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Pigment type (melasma, PIH, sunspot) assessed.
- Preparation – Cleansing + numbing cream.
- Laser Session – Fractional CO₂ beams applied to pigmentation zones.
- Optional Add-Ons – Tranexamic acid infusion, exosomes, PRP.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask, brightening serums, sunscreen application.
- Follow-Up – Multi-session program ensures stable pigment reduction.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Expertise in treating Asian skin types prone to PIH.
- Use of safe, authentic FDA/KFDA-approved CO₂ devices.
- Combination therapy approach (CO₂ + Pico + exosomes).
- Clinics offer pigmentation-specific booster programs.
- Cost-effective compared to Western pigmentation laser programs.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Hyperpigmentation CO₂ Care in Korea:
- Single Session (full face): USD 350 – 700
- 2–3 Session Package: USD 900 – 1,800
- CO₂ + Brightening Boosters (Exosome/Tranexamic/PRP): USD 500 – 1,000 per session
- Premium Pigment Package (CO₂ + Pico + Exosomes): USD 2,000 – 3,800
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN, Tranexamic infusion): USD 150 – 400
💡 Often called the “CO₂ Pigment Reset”, this treatment reduces stubborn dark spots and restores a clearer, more even complexion.
Popular Clinics
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Pigmentation-focused CO₂ + Pico combo.
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Melasma management with CO₂ + boosters.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Known for acne PIH + pigment care programs.
- ID Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ hyperpigmentation packages with tranexamic acid.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium pigment laser programs with regenerative therapy.
