Treatment Overview
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-laser light-based therapy that uses a broad spectrum (500–1200 nm) to target melanin, hemoglobin, and superficial skin irregularities. Unlike single-wavelength lasers, IPL can simultaneously address pigmentation, redness, and photodamage.
In Korea, IPL is sometimes used as a supportive therapy for melasma, particularly in patients with mixed vascular-pigment components. While IPL is effective for freckles, sunspots, and superficial pigmentation, melasma requires careful treatment because of its high recurrence risk. Therefore, Korean dermatologists usually apply IPL conservatively or combine it with Nd:YAG toning, Dual Toning, or Gold Toning for safer melasma control.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (IPL, Nd:YAG, Dual Toning, Gold Toning, Pico Lasers, Genesis, Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, CO₂):
- IPL: Best for superficial melasma + vascular-pigment mix.
- Nd:YAG Toning: Best for dermal melasma.
- Dual Toning: Best for multi-layer melasma.
- Gold Toning: Best for vascular melasma.
- Pico Lasers: Best for resistant melasma + PIH.
- Genesis: Best for vascular melasma stabilization.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for melasma with sun damage + texture.
- Clear + Brilliant: Best for mild melasma + prevention.
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for melasma with scars/texture (caution needed).
Purpose & Benefits
- Superficial Pigment Reduction: Improves epidermal melasma and freckles.
- Vascular Regulation: Targets redness and vascular triggers of melasma.
- Skin Brightening: Creates an even, radiant tone.
- Photodamage Correction: Improves sunspots and mottled pigmentation.
- Non-Invasive: Gentle procedure with little downtime.
- Combination-Friendly: Works well with toning lasers for layered melasma.
Ideal Candidates
IPL in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with epidermal or mixed-type melasma.
- Patients with freckles, sun damage, or vascular redness alongside melasma.
- Individuals seeking a gentle, non-ablative adjunct therapy.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- IPL: Best for superficial melasma + vascular mix.
- Nd:YAG: Best for deeper dermal pigmentation.
- Dual Toning: Best for multi-layer melasma.
- Gold Toning: Best for vascular-linked melasma.
- Pico Lasers: Best for resistant melasma.
- Genesis: Best for vascular and inflammatory stabilization.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for texture + melasma.
- Clear + Brilliant: Best for mild melasma and maintenance.
Possible Risks & Complications
While IPL is safe in Korean clinics, melasma patients require careful protocols:
- Redness & Warmth: Temporary, resolves in 24–48 hours.
- Temporary Darkening/Crusting: Pigment may darken before flaking.
- PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Possible if aggressive settings are used.
- Rare Risks: Hypopigmentation or uneven tone.
Surgical Techniques Used
IPL uses broad-spectrum pulsed light filtered for pigment and vessels:
- 500–1200 nm Spectrum: Multiple filters for pigment and vascular targets.
- Pigment Mode: Targets superficial melanin clusters.
- Vascular Mode: Improves redness and flushing linked to melasma.
- Protocol: 4–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart; usually combined with toning lasers.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness or warmth.
- 2–5 Days: Pigmented spots may darken, form micro-crusts.
- 1–2 Weeks: Pigment flakes off, leaving clearer skin.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
- Use hydrating and soothing creams.
- Avoid exfoliants, acids, or retinoids for 5–7 days.
- Protect skin from direct sun during treatment cycles.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Brighter tone, early pigment darkening before shedding.
- Short-Term (2–3 Sessions): Visible reduction in superficial melasma and redness.
- Medium-Term (4–6 Sessions): More even tone and vascular stabilization.
- Long-Term: Results may last 6–12 months; maintenance sessions often required.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor identifies melasma depth and vascular contribution.
- Preparation – Cleansing, protective eyewear, cooling gel application.
- IPL Session – Pulsed light applied with pigment/vascular filters.
- Post-Care: Cooling mask, hydration serums, or whitening boosters.
- Follow-Up: Multi-session plan with toning or Pico lasers for stability.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea specializes in multi-modal melasma management, using IPL only where safe.
- Dermatologists combine IPL with Nd:YAG, Dual, or Gold Toning for better control.
- More affordable than Western pigmentation programs.
- Korean clinics often include skin boosters (Rejuran, exosomes, PN) for enhanced recovery.
- Seoul is internationally recognized for melasma + pigmentation protocols customized for Asian skin.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for IPL in Korea:
- Single Session (full face): USD 100 – 250
- 4–6 Session Package: USD 400 – 1,200
- Premium Package (IPL + Nd:YAG/Gold Toning + Boosters): USD 1,000 – 2,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (PN boosters, exosomes, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 In Korea, IPL is often described as “the gentle melasma support treatment”, but it is rarely used as stand-alone therapy. Instead, it plays a key role in combination melasma care for patients with superficial pigment + vascular involvement.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): IPL + toning for superficial melasma.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): IPL combined with Nd:YAG for mixed-type melasma.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): IPL + vascular programs for pigment + redness.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): IPL + Gold Toning for vascular melasma.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium IPL + boosters for melasma care.
