Treatment Overview
Melasma Control Fraxel is a fractional non-ablative laser resurfacing treatment widely used in Korean dermatology clinics to manage stubborn melasma and chronic pigmentation. Using Fraxel Dual wavelengths (1550 nm + 1927 nm), the laser penetrates the skin with controlled microthermal beams, breaking down melanin deposits while stimulating dermal collagen remodeling.
Unlike aggressive CO₂ lasers, which may worsen melasma, Fraxel for melasma is gentler and safer for Asian skin types prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). In Korea, dermatologists often pair Fraxel with pigment-suppressing boosters such as tranexamic acid infusion, PRP, PN, or exosomes to enhance results and prevent relapse.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Melasma, Hyperpigmentation, Uneven Tone, Sun Damage, PIH family (Melasma Fraxel, Hyperpigmentation Fraxel, Brightening Fraxel, Pigment Control CO₂, Pico Toning):
- Melasma Fraxel: Best for stubborn melasma patches.
- Hyperpigmentation Fraxel: Best for melasma + PIH + sunspots.
- Brightening Fraxel: Best for dullness and glow restoration.
- Pigment Control CO₂: Best for resistant pigmentation with resurfacing.
- Pico Toning: Best for melasma with little to no downtime.
Purpose & Benefits
- Melasma Reduction: Breaks down and suppresses excess melanin.
- Even Tone Restoration: Balances blotchy skin and discoloration.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Lower risk of rebound pigmentation.
- Sun Damage Repair: Improves photoaged skin.
- Collagen Renewal: Strengthens dermis to resist pigment recurrence.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Supports ongoing melasma management.
Ideal Candidates
Melasma Control Fraxel in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with recurrent or resistant melasma.
- Patients with brown or gray patches worsened by sun exposure.
- Individuals with PIH following acne or irritation.
- Men and women seeking long-term pigment regulation.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Melasma Fraxel: Best for melasma management and prevention.
- Hyperpigmentation Fraxel: Best for mixed pigment problems (sunspots, PIH).
- Brightening Fraxel: Best for dullness and overall glow.
- Pigment Control CO₂: Best for severe pigmentation with resurfacing.
- Pico Toning: Best for safe pigment lightening with zero downtime.
Possible Risks & Complications
Fraxel is safe for melasma in Korea, but risks may include:
- Redness & Swelling: Mild, lasts 1–3 days.
- Bronzing & Flaking: Pigment darkens before peeling off.
- Temporary Darkening: Possible, but managed with SPF and boosters.
- Rare Risks: Rebound melasma if aftercare is neglected.
Surgical Techniques Used
Melasma Control Fraxel uses non-ablative fractional resurfacing:
- Laser Device: Fraxel Dual (1927 nm wavelength for pigment control).
- Fractional Beams: Target melanin clusters while sparing surrounding skin.
- Non-Ablative Approach: Safer for pigment-prone Asian skin.
- Treatment Zones: Full face, cheeks, forehead, jawline (common melasma areas).
- Protocol: 3–5 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart; maintenance every 6–12 months.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness and sensitivity.
- 2–3 Days: Pigmented patches darken (bronzing effect).
- 4–7 Days: Flaking as melasma areas shed.
- 2–4 Weeks: Skin looks clearer and more even.
- 3–6 Months: Ongoing collagen remodeling prevents recurrence.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ daily to block UV-induced recurrence.
- Avoid sun, heat, and tanning.
- Use brightening serums (tranexamic acid, arbutin, niacinamide) if recommended.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants and acids until skin heals.
- Follow dermatologist’s melasma-specific aftercare protocol.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Pigment patches darken before peeling.
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Melasma fades, tone evens out.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Continued improvement and prevention.
- Long-Term: Results last 1–2 years; maintenance essential for melasma control.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Pigment Analysis – Doctor identifies melasma type and depth.
- Preparation – Cleansing + numbing cream.
- Laser Session – Fraxel beams applied to melasma patches.
- Optional Add-Ons – Tranexamic acid, exosomes, PN, PRP for pigment suppression.
- Post-Care – Cooling therapy, LED healing, sunscreen.
- Follow-Up – Multi-session plan for stable melasma reduction.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean dermatologists specialize in melasma care for Asian and global patients.
- Use of FDA/KFDA-approved Fraxel systems tailored for pigmentation.
- Combination therapies (Fraxel + Pico + boosters) widely available.
- Affordable compared to Western melasma treatments.
- Seoul is a global leader in pigmentation and melasma management.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Melasma Fraxel Care in Korea:
- Single Session (full face): USD 400 – 900
- 3–5 Session Package: USD 1,200 – 3,200
- Fraxel + Exosome/PRP/PN/Tranexamic Boosters: USD 600 – 1,200 per session
- Premium Melasma Package (Fraxel + Pico + Boosters): USD 2,500 – 4,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN boosters, PRP, tranexamic infusion): USD 200 – 500
💡 Often referred to as the “Fraxel Melasma Reset”, this treatment is popular in Korea for long-term melasma control with minimal downtime.
Popular Clinics
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Fraxel melasma protocols + exosomes.
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Melasma Fraxel + tranexamic boosters.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Specialized in PIH and melasma care.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Fraxel + Pico for stubborn melasma.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium melasma Fraxel with regenerative therapy.
