Age Spot Removal in Seoul: Fade Sun Spots on Face and Hands
The short answer
Age spot removal in Seoul fades flat brown sun spots, known as solar lentigines, using pico or Q-switched lasers for individual spots and IPL for widespread ones. Treatment typically costs ₩30,000–₩100,000 per spot or ₩150,000–₩500,000 per area. Spots darken and flake off within about a week, and most clear in one to three sessions.
Key facts
- Also called: solar lentigines, sun spots, liver spots
- Common areas: face, hands, shoulders, forearms, chest
- Main methods: pico laser, Q-switched laser, IPL
- Healing: spots darken and flake off in about 5–10 days
- Sessions: usually 1–3
- Typical Seoul price: ₩30,000–₩100,000 per spot; ₩150,000–₩500,000 per area
What age spots are
Age spots, medically known as solar lentigines, are flat, well-defined brown patches caused by long-term sun exposure. Despite the name, they are linked more to cumulative UV than to age itself. UV light stimulates melanocytes to overproduce melanin, which collects in visible spots. They are most common on the face, backs of the hands, shoulders, forearms and upper chest.
Age spots are harmless, but they can make skin look older and uneven, which is why many people choose to remove them.
Age spots vs other spots
| Spot | Appearance | Typical treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Age spot | Flat, defined brown patch | Spot laser, IPL |
| Seborrheic keratosis | Raised, waxy, stuck-on | CO2 laser or removal |
| Freckle | Small, scattered, seasonal | Spot laser, IPL |
| Melasma | Hazy patches | Gentle toning program |
A dermatologist will confirm what each spot is. Any spot that is changing, irregular, raised or bleeding should be checked for skin cancer before cosmetic treatment.
Treatment options
Pico and Q-switched lasers
The most precise option for individual age spots. Short laser pulses shatter pigment, and the spot crusts and flakes off. One session is often enough for light spots; darker ones may need two or three.
IPL
Ideal when there are many spots across the face, hands or chest. It treats pigment and redness together with less visible downtime, though more sessions may be needed. See our IPL page.
Topical support
Brightening creams prescribed by a dermatologist can help fade remaining pigment and slow the formation of new spots.
Hands and body
Spots on the hands and arms heal more slowly than those on the face. Expect crusts to last up to ten days. Protect treated areas with sunscreen or gloves, especially while travelling.
What a session is like
After cleansing, eye protection is applied and each spot is treated with quick laser snaps. IPL feels like warm flashes. Sessions usually take 10–30 minutes. Small patches may be applied to treated spots.
Aftercare
- Do not pick crusts; let them fall off naturally
- Apply SPF 50 daily and reapply outdoors
- Avoid scrubs, acids and retinoids until healed
- Moisturise gently
Temporary darkening can occur after treatment, particularly on darker skin, and usually fades with time and sun protection.
Preventing new spots
New age spots can appear with continued sun exposure. Daily sunscreen on the face, hands and chest, hats and occasional maintenance treatment keep skin clear. For a broader approach, read our sun damage repair page and the sun spot condition guide.
Planning as a visitor
Plan for about a week of small visible crusts after spot laser, longer on the hands. IPL suits shorter trips with less visible healing. Avoid treatment right before a beach holiday. For related pigment concerns, see dark spot removal.
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 age spots be removed permanently?
Treated spots often stay clear, but new ones can form with sun exposure.
How many sessions are needed?
Most spots clear in one to three sessions.
Can age spots on hands be treated?
Yes. They respond well, though healing takes a little longer than on the face.
Are age spots dangerous?
Age spots themselves are harmless, but any changing or unusual spot should be checked by a dermatologist.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
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