Whiteheads Treatment in Korea: Extraction, Peels & Acne Care
The short answer
Whiteheads, small closed bumps under the skin, are treated in Gangnam with gentle medical extraction, chemical peels, aqua peel, acne facials and sometimes laser toning, plus a retinoid routine to stop new ones forming. Sessions typically cost about ₩50,000 to ₩200,000, and most people need 3 to 5 sessions depending on severity and oil production. Downtime is usually minimal.
Key facts
- Medical name: closed comedones
- Main treatments: pore extraction, aqua peel, chemical peels, acne facials, laser toning
- Typical cost: about ₩50,000–₩200,000 per session
- Sessions: usually 3–5
- Downtime: usually a few hours to 1 day
- Not to confuse with: milia, which need a different technique
Why get whiteheads treated in Korea?
Whiteheads are clogged pores sealed by a thin layer of skin, so the contents stay white or skin-coloured. They often appear as tiny bumps across the forehead, chin or cheeks and make skin feel uneven. Squeezing them at home rarely works and can cause inflammation or marks. Gangnam clinics treat them safely and combine extraction with care that prevents new congestion.
A doctor will usually confirm that the bumps are whiteheads rather than milia (tiny keratin cysts) or fungal acne, which look similar but need different treatment.
Types of whiteheads treated
- Scattered closed comedones: small bumps on the forehead or chin.
- Dense congestion: many bumps causing rough texture.
- Cosmetic-related bumps: triggered by heavy creams or makeup.
- Acne-prone whiteheads: that sometimes become inflamed spots.
Most popular whitehead treatments in Korea
Pore extraction
A trained professional opens and clears each whitehead with sterile tools.
Aqua peel
Suction and solutions loosen debris and hydrate. See our aqua peel page.
Chemical peels
Salicylic or similar peels dissolve the plug and smooth texture. Read about salicylic acid peels.
Acne facials
Cleansing, extraction and calming masks in one session.
Laser toning
Helps reduce oil and refine texture between extraction sessions.
Whiteheads treatment cost in Korea
| Treatment | Typical range per session |
|---|---|
| Extraction or acne facial | about ₩50,000–₩150,000 |
| Aqua peel | about ₩50,000–₩120,000 |
| Chemical peel | about ₩50,000–₩150,000 |
| Laser toning | about ₩50,000–₩200,000 |
| Milia removal (if needed) | about ₩10,000–₩50,000 per area |
Why Gangnam?
Gangnam clinics handle congestion routinely and can recommend a home routine using products easily bought in Seoul. If your whiteheads come with inflamed spots, see our acne treatment guide; for open pores, read about blackheads.
How many sessions are needed?
Most people need 3 to 5 sessions every 2 to 4 weeks. Whiteheads can keep forming if the cause continues, so home care matters. On a short trip, an extraction facial plus a peel gives smoother skin quickly, and a gentle retinoid at home prevents a rebound.
Aftercare
- Keep skin clean and avoid makeup for a few hours after extraction.
- Do not pick at bumps; let your clinic handle extraction.
- Switch to lighter, non-comedogenic moisturisers.
- Introduce a retinoid or azelaic acid slowly at home.
- Use oil-free sunscreen daily.
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
What causes whiteheads?
Oil and dead cells clogging pores beneath a thin skin layer. Heavy products and hormones can contribute.
Can I squeeze whiteheads myself?
It is better not to; it can cause inflammation and marks. Professional extraction is safer.
How are whiteheads different from milia?
Milia are tiny keratin cysts that do not come out with squeezing and need a different removal technique.
How many sessions do I need?
Typically three to five, spaced two to four weeks apart.
How much does treatment cost?
Typically about ₩50,000 to ₩200,000 per session.
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.