Treatment Overview
Vitamin Ion Therapy, also known as iontophoresis, is a non-invasive dermatological treatment widely used in Korea for acne management and skin recovery. The procedure uses a low-level electric current to deliver acne-fighting vitamins and active ingredients—such as Vitamin C, niacinamide, or anti-inflammatory complexes—deep into the skin.
Unlike surface creams or serums, iontophoresis enhances the penetration of active molecules into sebaceous glands and inflamed areas, improving acne healing, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and strengthening the skin barrier. In Korean dermatology clinics, this therapy is often performed after extractions, peels, or laser treatments to calm skin and accelerate recovery.
Purpose & Benefits
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms acne redness and irritation.
- Vitamin Delivery: Deep infusion of Vitamin C, B5, or niacinamide into the skin.
- Scar & PIH Prevention: Helps fade dark marks from acne.
- Barrier Strengthening: Boosts skin resilience and hydration.
- Healing Acceleration: Speeds recovery after acne procedures.
Ideal Candidates
Vitamin Ion Therapy in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with mild to moderate acne needing post-treatment calming.
- Individuals struggling with post-acne pigmentation or redness.
- Those with sensitive skin requiring a gentle, non-invasive option.
- Patients undergoing multi-step acne programs (extraction, peel, laser).
Possible Risks & Complications
Vitamin Ion Therapy is very safe, but minor side effects may occur:
- Temporary Redness or Tingling: From electrical current, fades within hours.
- Mild Dryness: Rare, if skin barrier is compromised.
- Rare Risks: Allergic reaction to infused ingredients (minimized with customized serums in Korean clinics).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Iontophoresis Device: Delivers low-level electric current to push vitamins deep into skin layers.
- Customized Solutions: Vitamin C for pigmentation, B5/niacinamide for acne calming, or hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Protocol: Typically performed weekly or bi-weekly; often part of 4–8 session programs.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Skin feels soothed, hydrated, and calmer.
1–2 Days: Redness fades, acne lesions appear less inflamed.
1–2 Weeks: Gradual improvement in skin tone and PIH.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply sunscreen daily to protect vitamin-infused skin.
- Use gentle moisturizers to maintain hydration.
- Avoid harsh acids or scrubs for 1–2 days post-treatment.
- Combine with acne skincare for long-term benefits.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Skin feels calmer, more hydrated.
- After 3–4 Sessions: Noticeable fading of acne redness and dark marks.
- After 6–8 Sessions: Long-term skin brightening, fewer breakouts, and improved resilience.
Maintenance every 1–2 months helps sustain results.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist selects vitamin solution based on acne type and skin condition.
Preparation
Cleansing, sometimes light exfoliation or extraction.
Vitamin Ion Therapy Session
- Step 1: Application of vitamin-rich serum.
- Step 2: Iontophoresis device delivers active ingredients deep into the skin.
- Step 3: Soothing mask or cooling ampoule applied.
Duration: 20–30 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Hydrating cream and sunscreen applied.
Patients can return to daily activities immediately.
Follow-Up
Series of 4–8 treatments recommended for cumulative benefits.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Customized Infusions: Korean clinics tailor vitamin blends to each patient’s acne type.
- Multi-Step Programs: Often paired with extractions, LED therapy, or salicylic acid peels.
- Skin-Calming Focus: Reduces downtime after more aggressive acne treatments.
- Affordable Packages: Widely offered as part of bundled acne care programs.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Vitamin Ion Therapy Session: USD 60 – 120
- Ion Therapy + Extraction: USD 120 – 200
- Premium Package (Ion Therapy + LED + Peel): USD 200 – 400
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic Ion Therapy (3 sessions): USD 180–300
- Acne Program (Ion Therapy + Extraction): USD 400–600
- Premium Package (Ion Therapy + LED + Whitening Drip): USD 700–1,200
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Vitamin iontophoresis with acne extractions.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Customized vitamin infusion facials for acne-prone skin.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Vitamin C iontophoresis + LED for acne scars.
- View Dermatology: Multi-step acne care programs with ion therapy.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium vitamin iontophoresis with regenerative boosters.
