Sun Spot Treatment in Korea: Pico Laser, Toning & Peels
The short answer
Sun spots (solar lentigines) are usually treated in Gangnam with a targeted pigment laser such as pico or Q-switched laser, which can fade a defined spot in 1 to 2 sessions. Spot treatment typically costs about ₩30,000 to ₩150,000 per spot or ₩100,000 to ₩400,000 for a full face. Treated spots darken and flake off over 5 to 10 days, so leave a week before important events.
Key facts
- Medical name: solar lentigines
- Main treatments: pico laser, Q-switched laser, laser toning, peels
- Typical cost: about ₩30,000–₩150,000 per spot; ₩100,000–₩400,000 full face
- Sessions: 1–2 for defined spots; 3–5 for scattered damage
- Healing: small crusts for about 5–10 days
- Prevention: daily SPF 50 to stop new spots
Why get sun spot treatment in Korea?
Sun spots are flat brown marks that appear on areas exposed to sun over the years: cheeks, temples, the backs of the hands and the shoulders. They are harmless in themselves, but they can make skin look older and uneven. Korean dermatologists treat pigmentation every day and have a wide range of lasers to match different spots and skin tones.
Before treatment, a doctor should confirm that each spot really is a sun spot. Some brown marks are melasma, seborrheic keratoses or, rarely, something that needs a biopsy. Melasma in particular can worsen with strong spot lasers, so the diagnosis matters.
Types of sun spots treated
- Solar lentigines: well-defined brown spots that respond well to laser.
- Freckle-like sun damage: many small spots across the cheeks.
- Mixed pigmentation: sun spots alongside melasma or redness.
- Raised age spots: slightly thickened spots that may need CO2 laser instead.
Most popular sun spot treatments in Korea
1. Pico laser
Very short pulses break pigment into tiny particles, often with less heat than older lasers. See our pico laser page.
2. Pigmentation laser treatment
Q-switched lasers target individual spots, which darken and flake off within about a week.
3. Laser toning
Low-energy passes over the whole face lighten scattered pigment gradually, with no visible crusts.
4. Chemical peels
Light peels speed up skin turnover and brighten overall tone.
5. Skin boosters and recovery care
Hydrating boosters and soothing care support healing and reduce the risk of rebound pigmentation.
Sun spot treatment cost in Korea
| Treatment | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Spot laser, per spot | about ₩30,000–₩150,000 |
| Pico laser, full face | about ₩150,000–₩400,000 |
| Laser toning session | about ₩50,000–₩200,000 |
| Chemical peel | about ₩50,000–₩150,000 |
Why Gangnam?
Gangnam clinics often own several pigment lasers, so the doctor can choose the right wavelength for your skin type rather than using one machine for everyone. If your brown patches are symmetrical and blotchy, read our melasma guide; for general discolouration, see pigmentation treatment.
How many sessions are needed?
Defined sun spots often fade after 1 or 2 sessions. Scattered sun damage usually needs 3 to 5 toning or pico sessions, 2 to 4 weeks apart. Darker skin types may need gentler settings and more sessions to avoid post-inflammatory darkening. If you are visiting briefly, spot treatment early in the trip leaves time for crusts to clear before you fly.
Aftercare
- Keep treated spots moist with the ointment or patches provided.
- Let crusts fall off naturally; do not scrub.
- Avoid direct sun and use SPF 50 every day for at least 3 months.
- Pause retinoids and exfoliating acids for about a week.
New sun spots will form if sun exposure continues, so a good sunscreen habit is the best way to protect your result.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Can sun spots be removed in one session?
Many defined sun spots fade significantly after one laser session, though some need a second.
Is pico laser better than Q-switched laser?
Both work. Pico laser may need fewer sessions for some spots and uses less heat, but your doctor will choose based on your skin.
How long do crusts last?
Usually five to ten days. Makeup can often cover them after a day or two.
Will sun spots come back?
Treated spots usually stay lighter, but new ones can appear with sun exposure.
Is it safe for darker skin?
Yes, with careful settings. Darker skin types have a higher risk of temporary darkening, so a gentler approach is common.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.