Acne Scar Treatment in Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

How acne scars form

An inflamed spot is a small wound inside the follicle. When the inflammation is deep or prolonged — cysts, nodules, or spots that were squeezed — it breaks down collagen in the dermis. As the skin heals, the body either produces too little new collagen, leaving a depression, or too much, leaving a raised scar. Genetics, how long acne was active and how quickly it was treated all influence the result.

The main types

• Rolling scars — broad, soft-edged undulations caused by fibrous bands tethering the skin to deeper tissue. They look worse in side lighting.
• Boxcar scars — round or oval depressions with sharper edges, shallow or deep.
• Ice-pick scars — narrow, deep channels that extend into the dermis.
• Hypertrophic and keloid scars — raised scars, more common on the jawline, chest and back.

Marks that are not scars

Flat red or purple marks (post-inflammatory erythema) and brown marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) are colour changes rather than texture damage. They often fade over months and respond to different treatment, so separating them from true scars avoids over-treatment.

How Doje Clinic assesses acne scarring

Most people have a mix of scar types plus some marks. In a private 1:1 consultation, Dr. Byun Jeik examines the skin under different lighting angles and uses Mark-View 3D skin analysis to record texture and pigmentation data. He will ask whether acne is still active, which medications you use or have used, and whether you tend to scar or form raised scars.

The aim is a realistic plan. Atrophic scars typically improve gradually over a course of treatment rather than disappearing, and the plan should reflect the type and depth of scarring you actually have.

Options from mild to advanced

1. Calm active acne first. New breakouts create new scars. Medical acne treatment comes before scar work.
2. Brown marks. Helios 785/1064 dual toning is Doje’s base for pigmentation, with intensity and sessions adjusted to the depth and pattern of pigment.
3. Shallow texture and rolling scars. Potenza RF microneedling stimulates collagen remodelling. Exosome + Potenza pumping, or Doje’s autologous exosome with Potenza, adds regenerative support. A course is usually needed.
4. Dermal support. Collagen boosters such as GOURI or Re2O aim to improve dermal quality around shallow, broad scars.
5. Selected volume. For a few soft rolling scars, a small amount of soft filler may be considered after assessment.

Doje’s Skin & Energy menu places this work in its pores and texture line, and devices are selected by need rather than stacked as a package.

When a dermatologist is more appropriate

Some scars need techniques outside Doje’s menu. Deep ice-pick and sharp boxcar scars may respond better to scar-specific procedures such as subcision, punch techniques or chemical reconstruction, typically offered by dermatologists or plastic surgeons. Raised and keloid scars need specialist medical management. Active or severe acne, and any prescription acne medication such as oral isotretinoin, should be managed by a dermatologist, who can also advise when procedures are appropriate after treatment.

What to expect

1. 1:1 consultation, history and lighting examination.
2. Mark-View 3D baseline for texture and pigmentation.
3. A staged plan: marks, texture and dermal support in order.
4. Sessions spaced several weeks apart to allow collagen remodelling.
5. Comparison with baseline data before deciding on further sessions.

After RF microneedling, redness and mild swelling typically last a day to a few days. Strict sun protection protects against new pigmentation.

Cost

Scar plans depend on scar type, area and the number of sessions, so they are quoted after a 1:1 consultation. Korean aesthetic fees are non-covered (비급여); ask for a written quote.

Frequently asked questions

Can acne scars be removed completely?

Depressed scars usually improve gradually rather than disappearing. The degree of improvement depends on scar type and depth and varies between people.

Are red and brown marks scars?

Not strictly. They are colour changes that often fade over time and are treated differently from textured scars.

How many Potenza sessions will I need?

A course of several sessions is common, spaced weeks apart, but the number is set after assessment.

Can I have treatment while I still get breakouts?

Active acne should be controlled first, usually with a dermatologist, so new scars are not forming during treatment.

Which scars are better treated elsewhere?

Deep ice-pick or sharp boxcar scars and raised or keloid scars often need scar-specific procedures from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

How much does acne scar treatment cost?

It is quoted after a 1:1 consultation. Korean aesthetic fees are non-covered and set per plan, so request a written quote.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Potenza RF microneedling
• Exosome + Potenza vs Potenza alone
• Autologous exosome vs exosome
• Enlarged pores
• Uneven skin tone
• Potenza vs CO2 laser
• Laser aftercare

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.