Acne Facials in Seoul (Hongdae): Medical Acne Care for Foreigners
An acne facial is a medical-grade cleansing treatment that clears clogged pores, calms inflammation and helps prevent new breakouts. It suits people with blackheads, whiteheads or mild to moderate breakouts who want gentle, non-invasive care. Sessions are usually repeated every few weeks, and a doctor checks whether you also need medication or other treatment.
✦ Medically reviewed by the KLEAM Medical Team · Last updated:
Key facts at a glance
- Treatment time
- Typically about 45–60 min
- Comfort
- Mild pressure during extraction; no anesthesia
- Downtime
- Usually none; some redness for a few hours
- Results visible
- Clearer pores right away; breakouts improve over weeks
- Recommended sessions
- Every 2–4 weeks, adjusted to your skin
- Add-ons
- LED light therapy, high-frequency treatment
Who it suits
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Mild to moderate inflammatory breakouts
- Oily or congested skin
- Teens and adults, including sensitive skin
- Travelers whose skin has broken out from climate or stress
Please consult us first if
- Severe cystic or nodular acne (a doctor may recommend medication first)
- Active cold sores or skin infection in the area
- Recent isotretinoin use (please tell the doctor)
How it works
An acne facial starts with deep cleansing and softening of the skin, followed by careful extraction of blackheads and whiteheads by trained staff. Removing the plugs inside the pores reduces the material that bacteria feed on.
Calming and antibacterial steps follow. Depending on your skin, this may include a soothing mask, LED light therapy, which is commonly used to calm inflammation and target acne bacteria, or high-frequency treatment.
Most people feel gentle pressure during extraction and a cool, calm feeling afterward. Because acne is a medical condition, the doctor may also suggest home care, medication or other in-clinic treatments if breakouts are frequent.
How it compares
| Compared with | Difference |
|---|---|
| Chemical peel | A peel uses acids to exfoliate and unclog pores across the whole face, while an acne facial relies mainly on cleansing, extraction and calming steps. |
Your visit, step by step
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Message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk
Send your preferred date, your main skin concern and a clear photo if you like. Our English-speaking team replies with available times and can tell you whether acne facial is likely to suit you before you travel.
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Arrive at Hongik Univ. Station Exit 1
KLEAM Clinic Hongdae is on the 3rd floor of L7 Hongdae by LOTTE, 141 Yanghwa-ro, right by Exit 1 of Hongik University Station (Line 2, AREX airport line and Gyeongui-Jungang Line). Please arrive about 10 minutes early.
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Consultation in English
A doctor examines your skin, reviews your medical history and medications, and explains the plan, expected results and risks in English. Let the doctor know what products and medications you use at home, so the plan works alongside them.
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Your acne facial session
After cleansing and any numbing or preparation needed, the treatment is performed by the medical team. You can ask questions or ask for a break at any time.
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Aftercare and travel tips
You leave with written aftercare instructions in English. Light, non-comedogenic skincare is best for the next day or two. Flying the same day is fine.
Aftercare & travel tips
- Do not pick or squeeze spots after treatment
- Use gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and moisturizer
- Avoid heavy makeup for the rest of the day if possible
- Wear sunscreen daily, especially if using acne medication
- Flying the same day is fine; keep skin clean and hydrated on the plane
Frequently asked questions
How much is an acne facial in Seoul?
The price depends on the steps and add-ons, such as LED therapy. Message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk with a photo of your skin and we will share current pricing and a suggested plan. The doctor confirms the final plan after seeing your skin in person.
Does extraction hurt?
Most people feel pressure and brief discomfort during extraction, especially on the nose and chin. No anesthesia is needed. Staff work carefully to limit redness, and you can ask for a break at any time.
Will my skin look red afterward?
Some redness around extracted areas is common and usually settles within a few hours. Most people go back to their plans the same day. If you have an important event, it is best to book the facial a day or two before.
How many sessions do I need?
Acne facials are usually repeated every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the severity of acne and your skin type. If you are only in Seoul briefly, a single session can still clear congestion, and the doctor can suggest home care to continue after you leave.
Can I combine an acne facial with other treatments?
Yes. Acne facials are often combined with chemical peels, LED therapy or, for marks and scars, laser treatments. The doctor decides what can safely be done on the same day based on how inflamed your skin is.
Is an acne facial enough for severe acne?
For severe, painful or cystic acne, a facial alone is usually not enough. The doctor may recommend prescription medication or other medical treatments alongside facials. Results vary, and a consultation is the best way to find a suitable plan.
Related treatments
Last updated: 2026-10-01. This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis. Suitability, dosage and results vary by person and are decided with a doctor at your consultation.
Why international patients choose KLEAM
Visit us
KLEAM Clinic Hongdae
3F, L7 Hongdae by LOTTE, 141 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Right by Hongik Univ. Station Exit 1 (Line 2 · AREX · Gyeongui-Jungang)
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+82-10-7368-4441
Weekdays 10:30–20:30 · Weekends 10:30–17:00 · No lunch break
Explore popular treatments
Acne Facials in Hongdae – Deep Clean & Calm Your Skin
Tired of persistent breakouts, clogged pores, or oily skin? Acne facials are a powerful, non-invasive way to purify your skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts. At our clinic in Hongdae, we offer specialized acne facial treatments tailored to your skin condition—helping you achieve a clearer, healthier complexion with visible improvements over time.
What is an Acne Facial?
An acne facial is a professional skincare treatment designed to target active acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and congested pores. It combines deep cleansing, exfoliation, and extractions with soothing treatments that reduce inflammation and control oil production.
Our acne facials are ideal for:
- Oily or acne-prone skin
- Clogged pores and blackheads
- Inflamed pimples or pustules
- Sensitive skin needing gentle care
Why Choose Acne Facials?
Key Benefits:
✅ Unclogs pores and removes impurities
✅ Reduces redness, swelling, and active breakouts
✅ Prevents future acne formation
✅ Improves skin texture and tone
✅ Customizable for sensitive or irritated skin
✅ Enhances absorption of skincare products
What’s Included in an Acne Facial?
Each acne facial is customized based on your skin’s condition and includes:
- Gentle Cleansing
Removes surface dirt, oil, and makeup residue without stripping the skin. - Exfoliation
Clears away dead skin cells that can block pores and cause acne. - Steam Therapy
Opens pores to make extractions more effective and comfortable. - Manual Extractions
Carefully removes blackheads, whiteheads, and other pore blockages. - Calming Mask or LED Light Therapy
Reduces inflammation and redness, especially for active acne. - Hydration & Protection
A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen are applied to finish the treatment.
Optional add-ons like high-frequency treatment, salicylic acid application, or customized serums can also be included based on your needs.
Who is a Good Candidate for Acne Facials?
You’re likely a good candidate if:
- You experience regular breakouts or clogged pores
- You want gentle but effective treatment for inflamed skin
- You’re already on acne medication and need skin support
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want to prevent future breakouts with monthly maintenance
Acne facials are safe for teens, adults, and even sensitive skin types. They can be part of a broader acne management plan alongside topical or oral treatments.
How Often Should You Get an Acne Facial?
For best results, we recommend starting with sessions every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the severity of your acne and skin type. Regular treatments help maintain clear pores and control oil production.
Our expert staff will evaluate your progress and adjust your treatment plan as your skin improves.
Reveal Clearer, Calmer Skin in Hongdae
Our clinic in Hongdae offers advanced, dermatologist-supervised acne facials in a clean, welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking to treat ongoing acne or simply want a deep, purifying cleanse for your skin, we’re here to help you feel confident in your skin again.
