Comedone Extraction in Seoul: Professional Blackhead Removal
The short answer
Comedone extraction in Seoul is a clinic procedure in which trained staff remove blackheads and whiteheads with sterile tools after softening the skin, reducing the risk of scarring and infection. In Gangnam a session typically costs about ₩30,000–₩150,000, takes 20–60 minutes and leaves mild redness for a few hours. Most people repeat it every 3–4 weeks while using skincare that slows new clogging.
Key facts
- Removes: open comedones (blackheads), closed comedones (whiteheads), milia
- Tools: sterile comedone extractors, fine lancets, sometimes vacuum
- Typical price: about ₩30,000–₩150,000 per session
- Session time: 20–60 minutes
- Downtime: redness for a few hours; occasional small marks for 1–2 days
- Frequency: every 3–4 weeks
What comedones are
A comedone is a pore plugged with oil and dead skin. When the opening stays wide, the plug oxidizes and turns dark, creating a blackhead. When the opening is covered by skin, it forms a small, flesh-colored bump called a whitehead. Comedones are the earliest form of acne and can lead to inflamed spots if bacteria multiply inside. Milia, small white keratin cysts, look similar but need a slightly different technique.
For background on the conditions, see our guides to blackheads and whiteheads.
Why professional extraction is safer
Squeezing with fingers pushes debris sideways, tears the pore wall and introduces bacteria, which can cause inflammation, dark marks and even scars. In a clinic, the skin is first softened, a sterile tool applies even pressure around the pore, and closed comedones are opened with a fine lancet so the contents release with minimal force.
What happens in a session
- Cleansing to remove makeup and sunscreen.
- Softening with steam, a warm mask or a mild acid solution.
- Extraction of blackheads and whiteheads area by area.
- Antiseptic and calming care, often with a soothing mask.
- Optional LED to reduce redness and bacteria.
The nose, chin and forehead take most of the time. Expect pressure and occasional brief stings.
Extraction alone or combined
| Approach | When it suits |
|---|---|
| Extraction only | Occasional congestion, quick refresh |
| Extraction plus salicylic peel | Oily skin with frequent clogging |
| Extraction plus acne laser | Comedones with inflamed spots |
| Extraction plus pore facial | General pore appearance and glow |
Many clinics add extraction to a salicylic acid peel or a pore refining facial.
Cost in Seoul
Typical Gangnam prices are about ₩30,000–₩80,000 for extraction added to another treatment and up to about ₩150,000 for a dedicated session that includes softening, calming care and LED. Dermatology clinics may charge a small consultation fee on the first visit.
Aftercare
- Avoid makeup for several hours and heavy products for a day.
- Skip saunas, swimming and intense exercise for 24 hours.
- Use a gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturizer.
- Apply sunscreen daily; extracted areas can darken with sun exposure.
Keeping pores clear afterwards
Blackheads return because the skin keeps producing oil. Products with salicylic acid, retinoids or azelaic acid slow that process. If you have many closed comedones, a dermatologist may prescribe a topical retinoid, which helps more than repeated extraction alone.
Choosing a clinic
Choose a clinic where extraction is performed by trained nurses or therapists under a doctor's supervision, tools are sterile or single-use, and staff will stop and refer you to the doctor if a spot looks infected or cystic. Ask how much of the face will be treated in the time booked.
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
Does extraction hurt?
It is uncomfortable rather than painful; most people feel pressure and occasional brief stings.
How long does redness last?
Usually a few hours; small marks on sensitive skin may last a day or two.
Will blackheads come back?
Yes, over weeks, which is why regular sessions and pore-clearing skincare are recommended.
Can I have extraction before a flight?
Yes. Redness settles quickly, and flying does not affect the skin's recovery.
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.