Erbium YAG Resurfacing in Seoul

Erbium YAG Resurfacing explained

Erbium YAG is a 2940 nm laser that vaporises skin tissue with very little heat spread. It can be used as a full resurfacing or in a fractional pattern. It is also used to remove small growths such as seborrheic keratosis and syringomas.

How Erbium YAG Resurfacing works

The 2940 nm wavelength is strongly absorbed by water in the skin, so it removes tissue in very precise, thin layers. Because less heat spreads to nearby skin, healing is often faster than with CO2 lasers at similar depths. New skin and collagen form as the treated area heals over 1–2 weeks.

Who Erbium YAG Resurfacing is for

Acne scars and uneven texture
Fine to moderate wrinkles
Sun damage and rough skin
Small skin growths such as seborrheic keratosis or syringoma
People who can take a week or more off

Who should avoid Erbium YAG Resurfacing

Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Recent tan, sunburn or upcoming sun holiday
Active acne, cold sores or skin infection
Recent isotretinoin use (discuss timing with the doctor)
Keloid-prone skin or visitors flying home within a few days

What happens at the appointment

Doctor consultation, photos and antiviral advice if you get cold sores
Cleansing and numbing cream, sometimes local anaesthetic
Laser passes at the planned depth
Cooling and a protective ointment or dressing
Wound care instructions and follow-up check

Aftercare and flying home

Keep the skin moist with the prescribed ointment until healed
Do not pick crusts or peeling skin
Avoid makeup until the skin has fully closed, usually 5–7 days
Strict sun protection with SPF 50 and a hat for at least 1–2 months
Avoid saunas, swimming and heavy exercise for about 1 week
Contact the clinic about yellow crusts, increasing pain or fever

Side effects and risks

Redness, swelling and oozing for several days
Crusting and peeling for 5–10 days
Pink skin that can last several weeks
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in Asian and darker skin
Rare: infection, cold sore outbreak, scarring or lasting colour change

How much does Erbium YAG Resurfacing cost in Seoul?

₩200,000–₩1,500,000 (about US$150–1,100) — Price depends on whether it is full or fractional resurfacing, the depth, and whether it is for the whole face or small spots. Small growth removal is often priced per lesion. Prices are estimates and change with promotions.

Why get Erbium YAG Resurfacing in Korea?

Seoul dermatology clinics frequently use erbium lasers for scars and small growths, and prices are usually lower than in the US. Visitors should plan a stay of at least a week for healing and a check-up.

Frequently asked questions

How much does erbium YAG resurfacing cost in Seoul?

Erbium YAG resurfacing usually costs about ₩200,000–₩1,500,000 per session in Seoul, around US$150–1,100, depending on area and depth.

Does erbium laser resurfacing hurt?

It stings and feels hot. Numbing cream or local anaesthetic is used, and the skin feels like a sunburn for a few days.

How many erbium laser sessions do I need?

Deeper resurfacing may need 1 session, while fractional treatment often uses 2–3 sessions 1–3 months apart.

When can I fly after erbium YAG resurfacing?

Flying is possible after a few days, but healing skin is fragile. Ideally stay until crusts are gone and the doctor has checked the skin.

Is erbium laser resurfacing safe for Asian skin?

It can be used on Asian skin, but the risk of temporary dark marks is higher. Careful depth choice, pre-treatment care and strict sun protection lower the risk.

Is erbium YAG better than CO2 laser?

Erbium usually heals faster with less heat damage. CO2 can give more tightening, but with longer downtime and higher risk.