Medical extraction
Careful, hygienic extraction of blocked pores and ripe spots to reduce inflammation and the urge to pick.
Acne & Skin Texture
Acne Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul
Medical acne care at Nest Clinic — our women doctors combine gentle extraction, prescription treatment and targeted energy devices to calm breakouts, reduce oiliness and protect your skin from marks and scars.
4–8
weeks to see breakouts settle
A
What is the most effective acne treatment at a dermatology clinic in Korea?
Acne usually responds more reliably to a combined medical plan rather than a single product. At Nest Clinic we typically pair professional extraction and acne-calming laser or Potenza treatment with prescription topicals and, when needed, oral medication. Sessions are usually every 1–2 weeks. Most patients see fewer, smaller breakouts within 4–8 weeks. Because acne can recur, a maintenance routine is part of the plan, and treating early lowers the risk of scarring. Results vary.
- Sessions
- 4–6 to start, then maintenance
- Interval
- Every 1–2 weeks
- Downtime
- Minimal — mild redness for a few hours
- Treatment time
- About 30–60 minutes
- Visible change
- Often within 4–8 weeks
- Skin types
- Suitable for all skin types
Understanding acne
What causes breakouts
Acne develops when pores become blocked by oil and dead skin cells, bacteria multiply and inflammation follows. Hormones, genetics, stress, certain cosmetics and climate changes during travel can all trigger flares. It ranges from blackheads and whiteheads to red papules, pustules and deep cysts.
Inflamed acne can leave dark post-acne marks or textured scars, which is why early, gentle treatment matters.
Signs you would benefit from medical care
- Breakouts that keep returning despite good skincare
- Painful red bumps or pus-filled spots
- Marks or scars left after spots heal
- Acne flaring around periods or with stress
- Oily skin with frequent clogged pores
Very deep, painful lumps may be cystic acne, which needs a more intensive plan.
Our approach
A layered acne program
Your plan is built from these steps, chosen for your acne type, severity and how long you are in Seoul.
Potenza
Radiofrequency microneedling helps reduce oil-gland activity and inflammation and supports smoother texture.
Acne-calming laser
Gentle laser treatment on our Clarity platform can calm inflammation and reduce redness from active acne.
Prescription treatment
Topical retinoids, antibiotics or other medicines — and, where appropriate, oral treatment — prescribed and monitored by your doctor.
Q Facial & peels
A Q Facial or salicylic acid peel deep-cleanses pores and helps prevent new breakouts.
Steroid injection
For an occasional large, painful spot, a dilute steroid injection can help it settle faster.
What to expect
Calmer, clearer skin
Drag the handle to compare. Breakouts usually settle over several weeks as inflammation and oil production are brought under control.
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Before
After 6–8 wks
Illustration for explanation only — not a patient photograph. Individual results vary; real case photos are shown during your consultation.
Is it right for you?
Good candidates
- Mild to moderate acne on the face, chest or back
- Adult or hormonal acne
- Acne that hasn't improved with over-the-counter products
- Oily, congested skin prone to breakouts
- Visitors who can attend 2+ sessions and continue treatment at home
Safety first
Possible side effects
Most acne treatments cause only mild redness, dryness or sensitivity for a few hours to a few days. Uncommon risks include temporary breakouts (purging) when starting topicals, small scabs after Potenza, and temporary pigment change. Oral medicines have their own side effects, which your doctor will explain and monitor.
Some acne medications are not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please tell your doctor about any medicines, including isotretinoin, before treatment.
Your visit
How treatment works at Nest Clinic
Skin analysis
Assessment of acne type, severity and scarring risk.
Doctor plan
Device, extraction and medication mix tailored to you.
Deep cleanse
Extraction or peel to clear blocked pores.
Treatment
Laser or Potenza in about 30–60 minutes.
Home program
Prescription routine and follow-up schedule.
Medical reviewer · Medical Doctor
Dr. Hee-in Song
Dr. Song graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine and is a member of Korean societies for laser, skin and hair medicine and aesthetic medicine. She focuses on skin-quality treatments — lasers, acne and pigmentation care. Nest Clinic is led entirely by women doctors, with one-to-one consultations.
Seoul National Univ. College of Medicine
Korean Society for Laser, Skin & Hair
Korean Society of Aesthetic Surgery
Korean Academy of Facial Filler
This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Hee-in Song in October 2026. It is for general information and does not replace an in-person diagnosis.
FAQ
Acne questions, answered
How long until my acne clears?
Most patients see fewer and smaller breakouts within 4–8 weeks. Full control can take 2–3 months, and results vary with acne type and hormones.
Is there downtime?
Extraction and laser cause mild redness for a few hours. After Potenza, expect redness and small marks for 1–3 days.
I'm only in Seoul for a short time. Can you help?
Yes. We can start in-clinic treatment, prescribe a home routine and write a summary in English for your dermatologist at home.
Will acne treatment leave marks?
Treatment aims to reduce marks by calming inflammation early. Existing marks can be treated separately — see acne scar treatment.
Is it safe for darker or sensitive skin?
Yes, with adjusted settings. We take extra care to keep inflammation low and reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Does it hurt?
Extraction can feel uncomfortable; Potenza is done with numbing cream. Most patients find it very tolerable.
Consultation
Start your acne plan
Send a photo on WhatsApp for a first opinion in English, then book a skin analysis with our doctors.
Nest Clinic Gangnam · 4F–5F Seocho Building, 453 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 7 · Gangnam Station Exit 10
Mon–Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun closed
Results differ from person to person. All medical procedures carry potential risks and side effects; a doctor will explain them before treatment. Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for a personal medical consultation.
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