墨白 In South Korea, when it comes to Dermatology treatments for the face, in addition to contouring and anti-aging treatments, skin whitening is another highly popular demand. South Korean Dermatology clinics indeed have their strengths in skin whitening techniques – going beyond simply applying whitening masks, they use a combination of lasers, phototherapy, and injections to achieve noticeable results in a short period of time. This article outlines some of the common skin whitening treatments available in South Korea, including their mechanisms of action, suitable candidates, and approximate costs, to help you make an informed decision before proceeding with any treatment.
Laser-based whitening treatments
ultra-Pico laser
The Ultra Pico Laser / Picosecond Laser has become one of the most popular whitening lasers in South Korea’s Dermatology field in recent years. Its mechanism involves using laser pulses with extremely short pulse widths to precisely break down melanin, making it easier for the body to metabolize and absorb these pigments. At the same time, the thermal damage caused by this laser is much less than that of traditional lasers.
- Suitable for: acne scars, freckles, uneven skin tone, and dull skin caused by staying up late.
- Results: A noticeable brightening effect can be seen in about 7 days, and the results become even more apparent after 3 to 5 treatments.
- Cost: The fee for a single treatment starts from approximately 150,000 Korean won, and varies depending on the clinic and the specific treatment plan chosen.
- Recovery period: There is almost no downtime; any slight redness will subside within the same day.
Premium Pico Toning (Milk Glow)
Pico Toning is a low-energy, multiple-session Pico laser treatment that focuses on “nourishing whitening” and is particularly suitable for sensitive skin or those who need long-term maintenance of the results. After the treatment, the skin becomes fair and radiant, earning it the nickname “milk glow.” Some clinics in South Korea offer a 10-week package (including 5 treatments), which is approximately 40
Carbon powder laser (Black Face Doll)
First, apply carbon powder to the face to allow it to absorb excess oil in the Pores and impurities in the stratum corneum. Then, use laser treatment to achieve both cleansing and whitening effects. This treatment is suitable for people with oily skin, enlarged Pores, or those who wish to improve their sebum production simultaneously. The cost for a single session ranges from approximately 100,000 to 150,000 Korean won.
Injection-based whitening treatments
Hydroglow injection (containing whitening ingredients)
In addition to hydrating and maintaining moisture, South Korean clinics often add whitening ingredients such as glutathione, tranexamic acid, and vitamin C to the formulas for glow injections. These ingredients are directly injected into the dermis, resulting in a more immediate whitening effect than topical applications. A typical treatment course consists of 3 to 5 sessions, with each session spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. The cost ranges from approximately 200,000 to 400,000 South Korean won, depending on the specific ingredients used in the formula.
MTS microneedle whitening therapy
The MTS (Microneedle Therapy System) uses microneedles to create tiny channels on the skin’s surface, allowing whitening ingredients such as glutathione and vitamin C to penetrate deeper into the dermis. At the same time, it stimulates the regeneration of Collagen, helping to improve both dark spots and Pore tightening. The cost ranges from approximately KRW 150,000 to KRW 300,000.
PDRN Salmon Injection
The whitening effect of PDRN is achieved by repairing damaged cells and promoting metabolism, making it a much milder approach compared to direct injections of whitening agents. It is particularly suitable for those whose skin tone has darkened due to sun exposure or stress. Typically, after just one treatment course (3 to 5 sessions), you can already notice a noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture. The cost ranges from approximately 150,000 Korean won onwards.
How to choose a whitening treatment?
The approach chosen will vary depending on one’s skin condition and individual needs:
- In cases of obvious pigmentation spots or acne scars, Pico laser treatment yields the most immediate results.
- For sensitive skin or those who are sensitive to pain, options like Pico Toning Milk Glow and PDRN are more gentle.
- Oily skin with large Pores → Carbon powder laser treatment effectively cleanses and brightens the skin
- If your skin is dry and dull, and you want to hydrate it and whiten it at the same time – choose hyaluronic acid injections containing whitening ingredients.
- If you want to significantly reduce the appearance of dark spots, consider MTS microneedling whitening therapy.
In most cases, Dermatology doctors in South Korea will recommend combination treatments—such as “Super Pico + hyaluronic acid injections” or “Pico Toning + PDRN”—which tend to yield more significant results than using a single treatment alone. When making an appointment for a consultation, be sure to clearly explain your main concerns, and the doctor will provide recommendations based on the condition of your skin.
How to Make an Appointment with South Korea’s DO Face Whitening Service – BeautsGO
If you want to undergo whitening treatments in South Korea, you can use the BeautsGO app to find a suitable clinic in advance. Download BeautsGO or search for the “BeautsGO” mini-program on WeChat. Enter keywords such as “whitening,” “ultra-Pico,” or “Pico Toning” in the search bar to locate South Korean Dermatology clinics that offer these services. You can then view the prices of the treatments, the qualifications of the doctors, and real user reviews. Once you have made your choice, click “Book a Consultation,” fill in your contact information and the time slot you are available, and the platform’s Chinese customer service will assist you in confirming the details. For those visiting South Korea for medical aesthetics treatments for the first time, having a platform to rely on is much more reassuring than going directly to a clinic without prior arrangement.
👉 Search for South Korea’s whitening facial treatments on BeautsGO →
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take for the effects of whitening lasers in South Korea to become visible?
With ultra-Pico lasers, initial improvements in skin tone can usually be observed within about 7 days, while the full effects become more noticeable after 3 to 5 treatments. After each Pico Toning session, patients can notice a noticeable brightening of their skin tone, and this effect lasts for a relatively long time.
Q: What precautions should be taken after undergoing a whitening laser treatment?
The most important thing is sun protection – apply sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ every day; otherwise, your skin is very likely to darken. In the first few days after the procedure, avoid high-temperature environments such as saunas and hot baths, as well as strenuous exercise. Some clinics provide post-treatment care masks; just use them according to the instructions.
Q: How long can the whitening effects last?
There is no permanent way to whiten the skin, as melanin will continue to be produced. The effects of laser whitening usually last for 3 to 6 months, after which they depend on an individual’s skin condition and sun protection habits. Regular maintenance treatments, combined with strict daily sun protection, are the most effective long-term solutions for maintaining a fair complexion.
Q: Should people with oily or dry skin choose the same whitening treatments?
They are not exactly the same. Oily skin is more suitable for carbon dioxide lasers and ultra-Pico treatments; dry and dull skin, on the other hand, benefits more from hyaluronic acid injections combined with whitening ingredients or PDRN. It is recommended to inform your dermatologist about your skin type during a consultation so that they can adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
