Table of contents

• CO2 Laser: The Treatment Process
• Best Clinics in Korea for Icepick Scars
• Getting CO2 Laser Treatment in South Korea
• Cost Breakdown: South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Patient Results and What to Expect
• Conclusion
• References

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Ice-pick scars are one of the more stubborn forms of acne scarring. They show up as small, deep, and narrow holes in the skin—think of them as tiny punctures. You’ll most often find ice-pick scars where the skin is thinner, like on the forehead and upper cheeks. While “ice-pick scars” is the exact medical term, these are actually a specific type of atrophic scars—meaning they’re indented due to collagen loss.

Just to break it down, atrophic scars also include types like rolling scars, which look wavy due to fibrous bands under the skin, and boxcar scars, which are wider and have sharper, well-defined edges. Collectively, the term “pits” often gets tossed around for these depressed scars.

Why do ice-pick scars form? It’s mostly about how your skin heals from deep or intense inflammation linked to acne. The deeper the inflammation, the bigger the risk for noticeable scarring. That’s also why picking or squeezing acne can leave lasting marks—it disrupts the skin’s healing and can easily result in scars.

These particular scars are tough to treat. A single solution rarely does the trick, and even effective options like CO2 laser often need to be combined with other treatments for best results. Preventing new scars is just as important: managing your acne and resisting the temptation to pick can help keep more ice-pick scars from cropping up.

CO2 Laser: The Treatment Process

CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser resurfacing is a precise way to target and treat damaged skin. This procedure uses a focused light at a wavelength of 10,600 nanometers, which is drawn to water in the skin cells. The brief, targeted heating causes the old skin to vaporize and stimulates a healing process below the surface, including the formation of new collagen and elastin fibers.

The most common approach now is called ablative fractional CO2 laser. Rather than removing the whole top layer of the skin, this version fires thousands of tiny beams in a grid, creating microscopic zones of controlled damage while leaving healthy skin in between. This speeds up healing and lets dermatologists reach both surface and deeper layers at the same time. For atrophic scars like ice-pick scars, this style of laser is considered the gold standard—even if it typically needs to be combined with methods like TCA Cross or punch excision for the deepest scars.

Beyond acne scar treatment, CO2 lasers improve fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and uneven skin from sun damage. Outside of dermatology, they’re even used for some cancers, pigmented lesions, eyelid procedures, and surgical treatments.

What to Expect

Side effects from CO2 laser include redness, swelling, peeling, and a “sunburned” feeling. A topical numbing cream (sometimes with oral painkillers) is applied about 1.5 hours before the procedure. Most people report discomfort as a mild 2 out of 10. Recovery time depends on how deep the laser goes:

• Superficial resurfacing: 2-4 days downtime, redness for 4-6 days
• Medium depth: 3-5 days downtime, redness up to 2 weeks
• Deep resurfacing: 6-8 days downtime, redness can linger for up to 3 months

Post-procedure care is crucial. You’ll need to clean the area, use recommended ointments, and absolutely avoid sun exposure. Diligent use of SPF 50 sunscreen is a must for at least three months. Results improve gradually—final benefits show up 6 to 8 months after each session, and often it takes multiple treatments to reach your goals.

CO2 lasers are safer and more effective for fair to medium skin, but they can be used with caution in darker skin types (to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH). Keep in mind, active acne should be controlled before starting—ongoing inflammation can slow or reduce results.

Fractional CO2 laser is often the backbone of acne scar revision, but for ice-pick scars, it’s rarely used on its own. Combining it with TCA cross, subcision, or minor surgical options is common. Post-procedure care isn’t optional—optimal outcomes and fewer complications depend on sticking to aftercare protocols, especially sun protection.

Results appear slowly, so patience is essential. This isn’t a “lunchtime” fix—expect improvement over months, with multiple sessions spaced 3 months apart.

Best Clinics in Korea for Icepick Scars

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for icepick scars:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Hev Clinic Website	Hev Dermatology Clinic, located in Sinsa, is a dermatologist-led clinic specializing in advanced skin lifting and regenerative treatments that can be tailored to the needs of patients with icepick scars. The clinic’s board-certified dermatologists actively participate in domestic and international academic societies and provide safe, personalized care based on precise skin analysis and expert consultation, with a focus on skin health, rejuvenation, and natural-looking results.	For texture and scar concerns, Hev Dermatology Clinic offers a broad range of options that may be combined into a staged plan, including Fraxel, CO2 laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, RF microneedling, and scar revision approaches that can incorporate lasers, microneedling, subcision, and fillers. Patients can also access regenerative and supportive treatments such as PRP, skin boosters like Rejuran and Juvelook, and additional therapies including stem cell therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, alongside injectables such as Botox, hyaluronic acid fillers, and collagen-stimulating Sculptra when appropriate. All procedures are performed responsibly by the same attending dermatologist from consultation through completion, supporting consistency, safety, and trust.
Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic, located near Sinnonhyeon Station in Seoul, is widely recognized for advanced aesthetic care supported by extensive clinical data and broad surgical experience. For patients seeking improvement in icepick scars, this depth of expertise is reflected in its structured approach to skin quality—combining careful assessment with dermatology-based treatments designed to refine texture and overall facial appearance.	Alongside scar-focused dermatology options such as laser treatments and skin tightening therapies, Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic offers a full spectrum of facial procedures that can support overall facial balance, including facial contouring, lifting, and nose and eye surgeries. With this comprehensive scope, patients exploring solutions for icepick scars can consider not only scar-targeted treatments, but also adjunct procedures that may enhance facial harmony as skin texture improves.
Modelo clinic Website	For patients seeking improvement of icepick scars in Korea, Modelo Clinic stands out because it does not chase short-lived trends; instead, it prioritizes results that continue to enhance your value over time by focusing on your own beautiful individuality rather than copying someone else’s look. This philosophy is especially important for icepick scars, where natural, balanced changes and careful support of overall skin quality matter as much as targeted scar procedures. Modelo’s approach is complemented by a broad, face-specific treatment portfolio optimized for Asian skin and facial structures—such as Wrinkle Botox and Contour Botox for refined, natural facial balance; Fullface Filler and Baby Filler to restore smoothness and youthful support in areas that can emphasize uneven texture; and personalized Skin programs including Lifting and Whitening to address laxity and discoloration that can make scars more noticeable. When appropriate, technologies and techniques like Comfort Thermage and Thread Lifting further support gradual tightening and collagen-related improvement over time, helping create a clearer, more harmonious canvas in which icepick-scar concerns can be addressed with an individualized, long-term aesthetic plan.	Find more about this clinic here: Modelo clinic Website

Hev Clinic

Hev Dermatology Clinic, located in Sinsa, is a dermatologist-led clinic specializing in advanced skin lifting and regenerative treatments that can be tailored to the needs of patients with icepick scars. The clinic’s board-certified dermatologists actively participate in domestic and international academic societies and provide safe, personalized care based on precise skin analysis and expert consultation, with a focus on skin health, rejuvenation, and natural-looking results.

For texture and scar concerns, Hev Dermatology Clinic offers a broad range of options that may be combined into a staged plan, including Fraxel, CO2 laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, RF microneedling, and scar revision approaches that can incorporate lasers, microneedling, subcision, and fillers. Patients can also access regenerative and supportive treatments such as PRP, skin boosters like Rejuran and Juvelook, and additional therapies including stem cell therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, alongside injectables such as Botox, hyaluronic acid fillers, and collagen-stimulating Sculptra when appropriate. All procedures are performed responsibly by the same attending dermatologist from consultation through completion, supporting consistency, safety, and trust.

You can check out their website here: Hev Clinic Website

Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic

Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic, located near Sinnonhyeon Station in Seoul, is widely recognized for advanced aesthetic care supported by extensive clinical data and broad surgical experience. For patients seeking improvement in icepick scars, this depth of expertise is reflected in its structured approach to skin quality—combining careful assessment with dermatology-based treatments designed to refine texture and overall facial appearance.

Alongside scar-focused dermatology options such as laser treatments and skin tightening therapies, Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic offers a full spectrum of facial procedures that can support overall facial balance, including facial contouring, lifting, and nose and eye surgeries. With this comprehensive scope, patients exploring solutions for icepick scars can consider not only scar-targeted treatments, but also adjunct procedures that may enhance facial harmony as skin texture improves.

Find more about this clinic here: Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Modelo clinic

For patients seeking improvement of icepick scars in Korea, Modelo Clinic stands out because it does not chase short-lived trends; instead, it prioritizes results that continue to enhance your value over time by focusing on your own beautiful individuality rather than copying someone else’s look. This philosophy is especially important for icepick scars, where natural, balanced changes and careful support of overall skin quality matter as much as targeted scar procedures. Modelo’s approach is complemented by a broad, face-specific treatment portfolio optimized for Asian skin and facial structures—such as Wrinkle Botox and Contour Botox for refined, natural facial balance; Fullface Filler and Baby Filler to restore smoothness and youthful support in areas that can emphasize uneven texture; and personalized Skin programs including Lifting and Whitening to address laxity and discoloration that can make scars more noticeable. When appropriate, technologies and techniques like Comfort Thermage and Thread Lifting further support gradual tightening and collagen-related improvement over time, helping create a clearer, more harmonious canvas in which icepick-scar concerns can be addressed with an individualized, long-term aesthetic plan.

Find more about this clinic here: Modelo clinic Website

Getting CO2 Laser Treatment in South Korea

South Korea has become a go-to for dermatological treatments, including fractional CO2 laser, thanks to advanced technology, high standards, and competitive pricing. Korean dermatologists complete intensive specialist training and clinics—especially in Seoul—are highly concentrated. This makes world-class expertise and strong safety protocols accessible and affordable. Many clinics cater to international visitors, and agencies like Seoul Cosmetic Surgery are ready to help with language, booking, and logistics.

Here’s how the process usually works:

• Consultation & Clinic Selection: Most journeys start with a remote consult and guidance from a medical tourism agency. Always pick a clinic with a proper dermatology specialist, verify credentials, and check for the red “dermatology specialist” sign.
• Pre-Procedure Prep: You’ll share your medical history, then get topical numbing cream and often oral painkillers before treatment.
• On the Day: The laser session is outpatient and can last 30 minutes to 2 hours. Local anesthesia is standard, but general anesthesia is an option for deeper resurfacing.
• Post-Procedure Care: After treatment, expect cooling packs, ointments, and sometimes a nonstick dressing for 24 hours. Your skin may feel raw, blister, and peel. Using SPF 50 and following aftercare instructions is critical.
• Follow-Up: Full results take 6-8 months to appear, with skin remodeling ongoing for a year. Expect to return for multiple sessions spaced 3 months apart.

Agencies can provide language support and even arrange accommodation or a personal driver. While South Korea offers attractive pricing (often much lower than the US or UK), the wide price range reflects treatment size, depth, and extra services. Remember: package deals, additional sessions, and products add up, so budget for more than just the procedure.

Cost Breakdown: South Korea vs. Other Countries

CO2 laser costs in South Korea range widely. For general CO2 treatment, per-session charges go from $300 to $1,500 USD. For fractional CO2, you might see $10–$50 USD (usually for spot or promotional treatments) or $150–$375 USD (more realistic for a full face). Many clinics have package pricing for multiple sessions.

Total costs will include these per-session charges, the number of sessions needed, and extras like overnight stays, aftercare products, and agency fees. Don’t forget the cost of international flights, hotels, meals, and other travel expenses.

Compared to other places:

• In the USA, single sessions run from $2,750 up to $7,000
• In the UK: $750 – $3,650 USD
• Turkey: $800 – $1,260 USD, sometimes including accommodation and transfers

Table 1: Comparative CO2 Laser Treatment Costs

Country/Region	CO2 Laser Treatment (Per Session)	Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment (Per Session)	Notes
South Korea	$300 - $1,500 (General CO2)	$10 - $50 (spot/promo); $150 - $375 (full face)	Confirmation needed re: session type, area treated, and extras.
USA	$2,750 - $7,000	$1,500 (Fraxel)	High due to facility, surgeon, anesthesia fees.
UK	$750 - $3,650	$615 - $1,250 (Scar removal)	Price varies by size and location.
Germany, France	$1,000 - $2,500	–	Varies by region and provider.
Thailand	–	$179–$1,192	Popular for medical travel.
Turkey	$800 - $1,260	$1,000 - $2,500	Often includes accommodation/transfers in packages.
Australia	$330 - $3,300	$325 - $1,450 (scar resurfacing/full face)	Costs depend on setting and provider.

If you see extremely low prices in Korea for fractional CO2 laser, get clarification on what’s included—often these deals only cover small areas or “laser facials,” not comprehensive work for ice-pick scars. Always request a detailed, personalized quote.

For medical tourists, budget holistically: include the procedure, products, travel, accommodation, meals, and downtime. What looks affordable at first can add up once you factor everything in.

Patient Results and What to Expect

Clinical studies show CO2 laser, especially fractional CO2 laser, is highly effective for acne scars, with 30–70% improvement seen in most patients. One review even found that 81% of patients had reduced scar scores. Patients report improvements in appearance, texture, and skin tone—and overall satisfaction rates are high (about 77.5%).

However, it’s important to know that ice-pick scars tend to improve less than other types (like rolling or boxcar scars). Results don’t show up right away—it often takes 4-6 months to see the biggest gains, and scar remodeling can last up to a year.

Scar type, skin tone, number of sessions, and active acne control all impact your results and experience. More severe or deep scars need more sessions. CO2 lasers work fastest for fair to medium skin tones, while those with darker skin may need more sessions at gentler settings to avoid PIH.

Downtime typically means redness, crusting, and mild discomfort. These side effects resolve with time and proper care.

Importantly, most patients with deep scars find that the best results come from combining CO2 laser with other treatments. Complete scar removal isn’t guaranteed for ice-pick scars—so keeping your expectations realistic is key. The benefits happen slowly, and maintaining them requires commitment to aftercare and skin health.

Conclusion

Ice-pick scars are among the hardest acne scars to treat and usually need specialized, sometimes combined, therapies for the best improvement. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is highly effective for many atrophic scars but rarely offers a perfect or solo fix for deep ice-pick scars. Patient results typically show significant—but not total—improvement that unfolds over many months and sessions. To achieve the best outcome, commitment to aftercare, realistic expectations, and planning for all associated costs are essential.

References

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