Treatment Overview
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is one of the most popular dermatology treatments in Korea for age spots (liver spots), sun freckles, redness, broken capillaries, and overall skin rejuvenation.
Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength, IPL delivers broad-spectrum light pulses that penetrate the skin and are absorbed by melanin and hemoglobin. This allows IPL to target both pigment (age spots, freckles) and vascular issues (redness, rosacea) in one treatment.
In Korea, IPL is often referred to as “Photorejuvenation” or “Photo Facial” and is widely used in combination with lasers, peels, and brightening drips for comprehensive pigmentation management.
Purpose & Benefits
- Age Spot Reduction: Breaks down melanin clusters causing liver spots and freckles.
- Skin Brightening: Improves clarity and radiance.
- Redness Control: Treats vascular redness, rosacea, and sun damage.
- Collagen Stimulation: Improves fine lines and skin texture.
- Non-Invasive: Minimal downtime compared to ablative lasers.
Ideal Candidates
IPL in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with mild to moderate age spots (liver spots), freckles, or sun-induced pigmentation.
- Patients with pigment + redness from chronic sun damage.
- Individuals seeking gradual, safe rejuvenation with little downtime.
Possible Risks & Complications
IPL is generally safe, but side effects may occur:
- Redness/Warmth: Similar to mild sunburn, fades in hours to days.
- Mild Swelling or Crusting: Normal healing of pigmented spots.
- Temporary Darkening: Age spots may darken before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) in darker skin tones, minimized with Korean protocols.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Broad-Spectrum Pulsed Light (500–1200 nm): Targets pigment and vascular lesions.
- Filters for Precision: Customized filters isolate specific wavelengths for pigment vs redness.
- Korean Multi-Pass Technique: Several gentle passes for gradual, safe clearance.
- Protocol: Typically 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart, with yearly maintenance.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness or warmth, like sun exposure.
- 1–3 Days: Pigmented spots may darken or form micro-crusts.
- 1 Week: Spots flake off, revealing clearer skin.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ daily to prevent recurrence.
- Use soothing moisturizers and barrier creams.
- Avoid scrubs, acids, and retinoids for 3–5 days.
- Limit sun exposure during the treatment cycle.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Brighter complexion, some age spots lighten.
- 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable fading of liver spots and freckles.
- 3–5 Sessions: Significant clearance and even skin tone.
- Long-Term: Results last 6–12 months; new spots may form with sun exposure.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is globally recognized for customized IPL protocols tailored to Asian skin safety.
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Evaluate age spots, freckles, and vascular concerns.
- Preparation – Cleansing, protective eyewear, cooling gel application.
- IPL Session – Broad-spectrum light pulses with precision filters.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask, whitening serums, sunscreen.
- Follow-Up – Multi-session plan with yearly touch-ups.
Unique Korean Methods & Advantages:
- Multi-Technology Programs: IPL combined with lasers (Spectra, Pico, Fraxel).
- Gentle, Low-Intensity Protocols: Minimize PIH risk in Asian skin.
- Combination Therapies: Often paired with Glutathione drips, Rejuran boosters, or exosomes.
- Affordability: Korean IPL sessions cost less compared to Western clinics while offering advanced technology.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 150 – 300
- 3–5 Session Package: USD 500 – 1,200
- Premium Program (IPL + Lasers + Boosters): USD 1,200 – 2,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Vitamin drips, Rejuran, PN, exosomes, whitening serums): USD 100 – 400
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: IPL + Pico for age spots + redness.
- Banobagi Dermatology: IPL Photorejuvenation programs for sun damage.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: IPL + Toning for mixed pigmentation.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: IPL + Fraxel for pigment + anti-aging.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium IPL programs with skin boosters.
