Medical Tourism Blog
Korea vs. Global Rates: What You’ll Spend on Acne Scar Treatment from Seoul to San Francisco
Table of contents
- Best Clinics in Korea for Acne Scar Treatment
- Cost of Acne Scar Treatment in Korea
- What Is Usually Included in Cost of Acne Scar Treatment in Korea
- Factors Influencing the Cost of Acne Scar Treatment in Korea
- Comparing the Cost of Acne Scar Treatment: Korea vs the Rest of the World
- Cost of Coming To Korea for Acne Scar Treatment
Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!
Considering a trip to Korea for acne scar treatment? Known for its cutting-edge dermatological procedures, Korea is emerging as a leading destination for those seeking effective acne scar solutions. The country's blend of advanced technology, seasoned practitioners, and comprehensive care packages make it an attractive option for many. But before you book your ticket, it's vital to understand the full scope of expenses, from treatment costs to travel logistics, ensuring a well-informed and financially prudent journey toward renewed skin confidence.
Best Clinics in Korea for Acne Scar Treatment
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for acne scar treatment:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Hev Clinic | Dermatologist-led clinic in Sinsa specializing in advanced skin lifting and regenerative treatments, with medical and cosmetic dermatology focused on skin health, rejuvenation, and natural-looking results. Led by board-certified dermatologists who actively participate in domestic and international academic societies; emphasizes safe, personalized care built on precise skin analysis and expert consultation—an important foundation when planning acne scar treatment costs, which can vary by scar type, depth, and the number of sessions recommended. | - Fraxel (fractional non-ablative) - CO2 fractional laser - Microneedling and RF microneedling - Chemical peels - Scar revision plans combining lasers, subcision, and fillers - Skin boosters (Rejuran, Juvelook, Profhilo, PRP, Skin Botox) - Ultherapy, Thermage, InMode for lifting and tightening - All procedures performed by the same attending dermatologist from consultation through completion |
| Rejuel Clinic | Dermatologist-led aesthetic clinic focused on skin rejuvenation, lifting, injectables, and body contouring with a clear priority on natural-looking results. For cost-conscious acne scar treatment in Korea, Rejuel stands out because it offers multiple clinically grounded options under one roof—especially collagen-remodeling procedures and skin-quality injectables—allowing acne scar plans to be customized to scar type, pore size, skin sensitivity, and downtime preferences while still aiming for smooth, realistic improvements. | - Dermatologist-led acne scar strategy: Treatments are selected and combined with medical oversight to match depressed scar patterns and post-acne texture concerns. - Proven collagen remodeling options for acne scars and pores: Acne Scar and Pore Resurfacing using fractional laser or microneedling RF. - Strong support for post-acne texture and glow: Collagen-boosting injectables such as Exosome Therapy, Rejuran Healer (PN), Sculptra. - Texture refinement plus hydration for better overall skin quality: Filorga NCTF 135 and SkinVive. - Comprehensive acne control to protect scar treatment results: Acne Treatment combines medical therapies with energy-based devices. - Laser dermatology breadth for common add-on concerns: Pigmentation Laser Treatment, Melasma Management, and Redness and Vascular Laser. - Results designed to look natural, not “treated”: natural-looking outcomes emphasis. |
| Girin Plastic Surgery | Girin Plastic Surgery, located near Gangnam Station, is a leading Korean clinic offering a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments delivered with a strong focus on safety, professionalism, and patient satisfaction. Led by some of the most prestigious plastic surgeons in Korea, Girin is an ideal choice for patients researching cost acne scar treatment in Korea because it combines expert medical oversight with a broad skin-treatment lineup designed to improve overall texture, tone, and facial balance, helping patients pursue clearer, smoother-looking skin alongside other customized aesthetic goals. | - Prime Gangnam Station location for convenient access during treatment planning and follow-up visits. - Prestigious, experienced Korean plastic surgeons leading care for reliable, high-standard outcomes. - Safety-first, professional approach designed to support confident decision-making and satisfactory results. - Strong skin-focused options that complement acne scar improvement goals, including skin boosters for texture and hydration, Botox and fillers for balanced facial aesthetics, and targeted slimming injections where appropriate. - Full-service clinic capable of coordinating combined aesthetic plans (skin, lifting, contouring, and facial procedures) for patients who want comprehensive refinement, not just single-focus treatment. - Broad non-surgical technology and rejuvenation offerings (Ulthera, Inmode, Oligio, AirJet) that can support overall skin firmness and appearance as part of a personalized treatment strategy. |
Hev Clinic
Hev Dermatology Clinic, located in Sinsa, is a dermatologist-led clinic specializing in advanced skin lifting and regenerative treatments, with medical and cosmetic dermatology focused on skin health, rejuvenation, and natural-looking results. Led by board-certified dermatologists who actively participate in domestic and international academic societies, the clinic emphasizes safe, personalized care built on precise skin analysis and expert consultation—an important foundation when planning acne scar treatment costs, which can vary by scar type, depth, and the number of sessions recommended.
For acne scar and texture improvement, Hev Clinic offers a range of options such as Fraxel (fractional non-ablative), CO2 fractional laser, microneedling and RF microneedling, chemical peels, and scar revision plans combining lasers, subcision, and fillers when needed. Patients can also access complementary treatments that support overall skin quality, including skin boosters (Rejuran, Juvelook, Profhilo, PRP, Skin Botox) and devices like Ultherapy, Thermage, and InMode for lifting and tightening. All procedures are performed responsibly by the same attending dermatologist from consultation through completion, helping ensure consistency, safety, and trust throughout a multi-session acne scar treatment plan.
You can check out their website here: Hev Clinic Website
Rejuel Clinic
Rejuel Clinic, located at Gangnam Station, is a dermatologist-led aesthetic clinic focused on skin rejuvenation, lifting, injectables, and body contouring with a clear priority on natural-looking results. For cost-conscious acne scar treatment in Korea, Rejuel stands out because it offers multiple clinically grounded options under one roof—especially collagen-remodeling procedures and skin-quality injectables—allowing acne scar plans to be customized to scar type, pore size, skin sensitivity, and downtime preferences while still aiming for smooth, realistic improvements rather than overdone changes.
- Dermatologist-led acne scar strategy: Treatments are selected and combined with medical oversight to match depressed scar patterns and post-acne texture concerns.
- Proven collagen remodeling options for acne scars and pores: Acne Scar and Pore Resurfacing using fractional laser or microneedling RF helps remodel collagen to smooth uneven texture and improve pores over time.
- Strong support for post-acne texture and glow: Collagen-boosting injectables such as Exosome Therapy, Rejuran Healer (PN), and Sculptra focus on repair, elasticity, and gradual strengthening that complements device-based scar resurfacing.
- Texture refinement plus hydration for better overall skin quality: Options like Filorga NCTF 135 and SkinVive improve hydration, tone, and radiance, helping skin look healthier as scars soften.
- Comprehensive acne control to protect scar treatment results: Acne Treatment combines medical therapies with energy-based devices to calm breakouts, reduce oil, limit recurrence, and minimize new post-acne marks.
- Laser dermatology breadth for common add-on concerns: Pigmentation Laser Treatment, Melasma Management, and Redness and Vascular Laser help address lingering discoloration and redness that can make acne scars look more noticeable.
- Results designed to look natural, not “treated”: The clinic’s emphasis on natural-looking outcomes supports subtle, progressive improvement—especially important for collagen-stimulating plans where results build over time.
Find more about this clinic here: Rejuel Clinic Website
Girin Plastic Surgery
Girin Plastic Surgery, located near Gangnam Station, is a leading Korean clinic offering a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments delivered with a strong focus on safety, professionalism, and patient satisfaction. Led by some of the most prestigious plastic surgeons in Korea, Girin is an ideal choice for patients researching cost acne scar treatment in Korea because it combines expert medical oversight with a broad skin-treatment lineup designed to improve overall texture, tone, and facial balance, helping patients pursue clearer, smoother-looking skin alongside other customized aesthetic goals.
- Prime Gangnam Station location for convenient access during treatment planning and follow-up visits
- Prestigious, experienced Korean plastic surgeons leading care for reliable, high-standard outcomes
- Safety-first, professional approach designed to support confident decision-making and satisfactory results
- Strong skin-focused options that complement acne scar improvement goals, including skin boosters for texture and hydration, Botox and fillers for balanced facial aesthetics, and targeted slimming injections where appropriate
- Full-service clinic capable of coordinating combined aesthetic plans (skin, lifting, contouring, and facial procedures) for patients who want comprehensive refinement, not just single-focus treatment
- Broad non-surgical technology and rejuvenation offerings (such as Ulthera, Inmode, Oligio, AirJet) that can support overall skin firmness and appearance as part of a personalized treatment strategy
Find more about this clinic here: Girin Plastic Surgery Website
Cost of Acne Scar Treatment in Korea
Acne scar treatment is a popular procedure in Korea, renowned for its advanced techniques and effective results. Patients from around the world are often drawn to Korea for dermatological procedures due to the expertise of its practitioners and the use of state-of-the-art technology.
Price Range and Conversion
The cost of acne scar treatment in Korea generally ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 USD. When converted to Korean Won (KRW) using the exchange rate of 1 KRW = 0.000688 USD, the price range translates to approximately:
- 1,450,000 KRW to 2,900,000 KRW
Deposit Requirements
When planning your acne scar treatment in Korea, it's important to consider the financial logistics. Most clinics require an upfront deposit to secure your procedure. This deposit is typically around 10% of the total treatment cost. Therefore, based on the price range, the deposit would be:
- 145,000 KRW to 290,000 KRW or
- $100 to $200 USD
This deposit system is designed to confirm your commitment and secure your appointment with the medical facility, ensuring that resources are adequately allocated for your treatment.
What Is Usually Included in Cost of Acne Scar Treatment in Korea
When considering acne scar treatment in Korea, it's important to understand what is typically included in the cost to make informed decisions. Here's a breakdown of common factors that are usually part of the pricing:
-
Overnight Stays: Depending on the specific treatment or combination of treatments chosen, overnight stays might be necessary. This is particularly relevant for more intensive procedures that require recovery time under medical supervision. The expenses for these hospital or clinic stays are generally included in the overall cost, providing patients with a safe and monitored environment for recovery.
-
Aftercare Products: Post-treatment skincare is crucial for maintaining results and promoting healing. The cost typically includes specialized skincare products that are recommended for aftercare. These products aid in soothing the skin, preventing infections, and enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. It's common for clinics to offer a comprehensive aftercare package tailored to the patient’s needs.
-
Follow-up Consultations: To ensure optimal results, follow-up consultations are usually part of the treatment plan. These sessions allow healthcare providers to assess the healing process and address any concerns the patient might have. The cost of these follow-up visits is generally included in the initial treatment package, ensuring a continuum of care without unexpected additional charges.
Understanding these inclusions helps prospective patients plan better both financially and logistically, ensuring a smoother journey through their acne scar treatment in Korea.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Acne Scar Treatment in Korea
The cost of acne scar treatment in Korea can vary significantly based on several key factors. First, the location of the clinic plays a crucial role; clinics situated in upscale areas like Gangnam tend to charge higher prices due to increased operational costs and the affluent clientele they serve. Additionally, the experience and reputation of the surgeon or dermatologist can influence cost, as those with more prestigious backgrounds or extensive experience typically command higher fees. Lastly, the type of technology used for the treatment, such as advanced laser systems, can also affect pricing, with newer and more effective technologies usually costing more.
Comparing the Cost of Acne Scar Treatment: Korea vs the Rest of the World
Cost of Procedure in USA
In the USA, the cost for acne scar treatments can vary widely depending on the type of procedure:
-
Punch Excision for Ice Pick Scars: $500 to $1,000
- Considerations: Multiple treatments may be required.
-
Microneedling for Acne Scars: $500 per session
- Considerations: Multiple sessions may be required, and combining with PRP increases cost.
-
Dermal Fillers for Boxcar Scars: $800 to $1,200
- Considerations: Multiple syringes may be required, and multiple sessions may be needed.
-
VBeam Laser Treatment for Acne Scars: $800 to $1,500
- Considerations: Multiple sessions may be required.
-
Fraxel Laser Treatment for Acne Scars: $1,500 per session
- Considerations: Multiple sessions may be required.
Cost of Procedure in Mexico
Acne scar treatments in Mexico are generally more affordable:
-
Acne Scar Treatment: $75 to $150
- Considerations: Overnight stays may be required depending on the treatment plan, and additional health tests may be needed.
Potential Dangers: While affordable, it’s crucial to ensure the clinic is reputable and follows international healthcare standards. Language barriers and less stringent regulations can pose challenges.
Cost of Procedure in Turkey
Turkey offers acne scar treatments at competitive prices:
-
Acne Scar Treatment: $200
- Considerations: Overnight stays may be required, and additional health tests may be needed before the procedure.
Potential Dangers: Although Turkey is known for its medical tourism, patients should be cautious of clinics that might not meet international safety standards. Verification of the clinic’s credentials is advised.
Cost of Procedure in Thailand
In Thailand, the conversion from KRW to USD provides a cost-effective option:
-
Acne Scar Treatment: Approximately $30 to $900 (in USD, converted from KRW)
- Considerations: Multiple sessions may be needed depending on the scar type, and consultation with a dermatologist is required.
Potential Dangers: Patients should be wary of clinics offering unusually low prices, as this may reflect on the quality of care and equipment used. It's important to research thoroughly and ensure the facility is properly accredited.
Cost of Procedure in Australia
Australia offers treatments in AUD, here converted to USD for clarity:
- Fractional Fraxel – CO2 – Erbium – RF Microneedling: $480 (AUD $690)
- V Beam Prima- Perfecta & Pico Lasers: $200 (AUD $290)
- Microneedling +/- PRP: $270 (AUD $390)
- Tixel Fractional Resurfacing: $200 (AUD $290)
- TCA Paint/Cross: $130 to $480 (AUD $190 to $690)
- Combination treatments: $340 to $830 (AUD $490 to $1,190)
Note: Medicare rebates may apply for surgical procedures.
While each of these countries offers treatments at various price points, it's essential to factor in the quality of care, the practitioner’s expertise, and the clinic's reputation. International patients should also consider the legal protections and availability of follow-up care when undergoing treatments abroad.
Cost of Coming To Korea for Acne Scar Treatment
When considering traveling to Korea for acne scar treatment, several factors will contribute to your overall expenses. Understanding these costs upfront can help you budget effectively for your medical journey. Here's a detailed breakdown of the travel costs:
Airfare
The cost of round-trip airfare to Korea can vary significantly based on your departure location, the time of year, and how far in advance you book your tickets. On average, flights from North America or Europe to Seoul can range from $600 to $1,200 USD. It's worth considering booking during airline sales or opting for budget airlines to reduce costs.
Accommodation
Accommodation costs in Korea also vary depending on the type of lodging you choose. Budget travelers can find hostels and guesthouses for as low as $20-$40 USD per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from $70 to $150 USD per night. Those seeking luxury accommodations should expect to pay upwards of $200 USD per night. Booking in advance and considering stays through vacation rental platforms can also offer substantial savings.
Transportation
Transportation costs within Korea are generally affordable, with an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The subway and bus fares within cities like Seoul are typically around $1-$2 USD per trip. Taxis are more expensive but still reasonably priced and widely available, with typical fares starting at $3 USD. For those planning to explore beyond the city, Korea's high-speed trains and intercity buses are cost-effective options.
Meals and Dining
Dining in Korea can suit a wide range of budgets. Street food and small local eateries offer meals for as little as $5-$10 USD. Mid-range restaurants may charge between $15-$30 USD per meal. For those who prefer high-end dining experiences, costs can escalate to $50 USD and above per person. Given Korea's rich and diverse culinary scene, travelers can find options that fit their budget while enjoying authentic Korean cuisine.
Miscellaneous Costs
Additional costs to consider include travel insurance, which is highly recommended for international medical trips, and any visas or entry permits required for your nationality. Moreover, it is wise to allocate a budget for personal expenses, such as shopping, attractions, and emergency funds.
By planning and understanding these factors, travelers can ensure a smooth and financially manageable visit to Korea for acne scar treatment.
