Treatment Overview
Salicylic Acid Peel is one of the most commonly performed Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) chemical peels in Korean dermatology clinics, specifically designed for oily, acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve sebum plugs, remove dead skin cells, and kill acne-causing bacteria.
Compared to AHAs, which act only on the skin surface, salicylic acid penetrates deeper, making it highly effective for blackheads, whiteheads, enlarged pores, and inflamed acne. In Korea, salicylic acid peels are usually performed in a gentle, layered approach, often combined with Aqua Peel, LED therapy, or acne extractions for a complete acne treatment program.
Purpose & Benefits
- Sebum Dissolution: Breaks down oil and keratin plugs inside pores.
- Pore Cleansing: Reduces blackheads, whiteheads, and congestion.
- Acne Reduction: Controls both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effect: Calms redness and irritation associated with breakouts.
- Skin Texture Refinement: Smoothens roughness and reduces enlarged pores.
- Oil Control: Long-term regulation of sebum secretion.
Ideal Candidates
Salicylic Acid Peel in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with oily, acne-prone skin experiencing frequent clogged pores.
- Individuals with blackheads, whiteheads, and comedonal acne.
- Those suffering from enlarged pores and shiny skin.
- Patients looking for a non-invasive but effective acne treatment.
- Individuals who did not respond well to surface-only treatments like AHAs or enzyme peels.
Possible Risks & Complications
Salicylic Acid Peel is safe under dermatologist supervision, but temporary side effects can include:
- Redness & Tingling: Mild, resolves within hours.
- Dryness or Flaking: Lasts 1–3 days post-treatment.
- Rare Risks: Irritation in patients with very sensitive, eczema-prone, or dry skin.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Application of Salicylic Acid Solution (10–30%): Applied to acne-prone and oily areas.
- Timed Exfoliation: Peel left for 2–5 minutes depending on tolerance.
- Neutralization & Rinsing: Peel is neutralized to stop action.
- Soothing Care: Hydrating mask or calming serum applied post-peel.
Protocol: Usually 4–6 sessions, spaced 2–3 weeks apart.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Skin feels lighter, pores appear cleaner.
1–2 Days: Mild dryness or flaking may occur.
1–2 Weeks: Blackheads decrease, oil control improves, acne lesions calm down.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply gentle moisturizers and barrier creams.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Avoid retinoids, scrubs, or harsh acids for 3–5 days post-peel.
- Stick to hydrating and soothing skincare.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Fresher, less oily skin with smaller pores.
- After 3–4 Sessions: Visible reduction in acne and blackheads.
- After 6 Sessions: Long-term oil balance, smoother texture, fewer breakouts.
Maintenance peels every 2–3 months are common for acne-prone patients.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist evaluates acne severity, pore congestion, and skin sensitivity.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing; protective cream applied to sensitive areas.
Salicylic Acid Peel Application
- Step 1: Salicylic acid solution applied evenly to acne-prone areas.
- Step 2: Peel left for 2–5 minutes under dermatologist monitoring.
- Step 3: Peel neutralized and rinsed thoroughly.
- Step 4: Soothing mask or hydrating serum applied post-treatment.
Duration: 20–30 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Barrier cream and sunscreen applied; no downtime.
Follow-Up
4–6 treatments suggested for best results.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Gentle, Layered Approach: Korean dermatologists customize strength for Asian skin.
- Combination Programs: Often paired with Aqua Peel, scaling, or LED therapy.
- Holistic Acne Care: Focus on barrier strengthening and post-care.
- Affordable Packages: Cost-effective compared to Western clinics.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Salicylic Acid Peel Session: USD 70 – 120
- Peel + Extraction/LED Therapy: USD 120 – 180
- Peel + Aqua Peel/Soothing Mask: USD 150 – 220
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Program (5 sessions): USD 350 – 500
- Acne Care Program (5 sessions with LED/Extraction): USD 500 – 800
- Premium Program (5–6 sessions with Exosome/Whitening Drip Boosters): USD 1,000 – 1,400
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Salicylic acid acne control programs.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Customized BHA peel treatments for oily skin.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Salicylic peels paired with LED light therapy.
- View Dermatology: Multi-step acne packages including BHA peels.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium salicylic acid programs with regenerative boosters.
