Breakouts & Oil
Acne
Acne is a chronic condition of the hair follicle and oil gland that causes blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pimples and cysts. A board-certified dermatologist in Korea treats it with prescription topicals, oral medication when needed, and in-office procedures, and works to prevent scarring.
Overview
Acne develops when excess sebum, dead skin cells and Cutibacterium acnes bacteria block the follicle and trigger inflammation. Hormones, genetics, stress and some cosmetics can all contribute.
In Korea, many clinics market acne facials, but persistent, painful or scarring acne is a medical condition. A dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의) can grade severity and choose evidence-based treatment rather than relying on extraction alone.
At a glance
Common signs
Comedones, red papules, pus-filled pustules, deep nodules or cysts on the face, chest and back.
How dermatologists treat it
Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics; oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy or isotretinoin for moderate to severe cases; plus extraction, peels or light-based therapy as support.
When to see a specialist
If acne is painful, leaves marks or scars, or has not improved after two to three months of over-the-counter care.
Frequently asked questions
Can acne be cured permanently?
Acne can be brought under long-term control, and some patients go into lasting remission after a full course of isotretinoin, but maintenance care is usually needed.
Do acne facials in Korea replace medical treatment?
No. Extraction and facials can support treatment, but inflammatory acne usually needs prescription therapy guided by a dermatologist.
How soon will I see improvement?
Most prescription regimens take 8 to 12 weeks to show clear results.
Related
Choose a specialist
See a board-certified dermatologist, not just a “skin clinic”
In Korea, only about 1 in 10 clinics that treat skin is run by a dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의). Specialists complete a four-year dermatology residency and a national exam. Our directory lists only clinics in the Association of Korean Dermatologists’ specialist search. This page is general information, not medical advice.