Treatment guide · Acne Care

Gold PTT in Seoul

An acne treatment that uses gold particles and laser light to target the oil glands that cause breakouts.

Ask the clinic for: 골드 PTT (금 나노입자 여드름 치료)

Gold PTT explained

Gold PTT is a laser-based acne treatment that uses gold nanoparticles as a target for light. It is designed for oily, acne-prone skin and is offered by many Seoul dermatology clinics as part of acne programmes.

How Gold PTT works

A solution containing tiny gold particles is applied and massaged, sometimes with ultrasound, so it enters the pores and oil glands. The surface is cleaned, then a laser at a wavelength the gold absorbs is passed over the skin. The gold heats up inside the follicle, which aims to shrink overactive oil glands and reduce acne bacteria while sparing the skin surface. Results vary, and it works best as part of a full acne plan.

Who Gold PTT is for

• Mild to moderate inflammatory acne
• Very oily skin with frequent breakouts
• People who cannot or prefer not to take isotretinoin
• Recurring acne on the face, chest or back
• Large, oily pores

Who should avoid Gold PTT

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• People currently on isotretinoin, unless the doctor approves
• Recent strong tanning or sunburn
• Known metal allergy to the gold solution
• Severe cystic acne that needs medication first

What happens at the appointment

1. Doctor consultation and acne assessment
2. Cleansing and light exfoliation
3. Gold solution massaged into the skin
4. Excess gold removed and laser passed over the skin
5. Calming mask or LED and aftercare instructions

Aftercare and flying home

• Use a gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturiser
• Apply sunscreen daily
• Avoid saunas, alcohol and hard exercise for 24 hours
• Avoid retinoids and acids for 2–3 days
• Do not pick at spots between sessions

Side effects and risks

• Redness and warmth for a few hours to a day
• A short acne flare after the first session
• Mild swelling or dryness
• Rarely, burns or darker marks, especially on darker skin

How much does Gold PTT cost in Seoul?

₩150,000–₩400,000 (about US$110–300) — Price depends on the treatment area (face only or face plus back or chest), the clinic, and whether it is sold as part of an acne package with extraction and LED. Multi-session packages are common. All prices are estimates and change with promotions.

Why get Gold PTT in Korea?

Acne care is a large part of Korean dermatology, and Gold PTT is offered at many Seoul clinics. It is often combined with extraction, LED and acne lasers in one programme at prices lower than in many Western cities.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Gold PTT cost in Seoul?

Gold PTT in Seoul usually costs about ₩150,000–₩400,000 per session for the face. Larger areas and packages change the price.

Does Gold PTT hurt?

Most people feel warmth and light snapping from the laser. It is usually tolerable without numbing.

How many Gold PTT sessions do I need?

Most people need 3–5 sessions, 2–4 weeks apart. Many see improvement after the second or third session.

Is there downtime after Gold PTT? Can I fly?

Downtime is minimal, with redness for a few hours to a day. Flying the next day is fine; protect skin from sun at your destination.

What are the side effects of Gold PTT?

Common effects are redness, warmth and a short acne flare. Burns and darker marks are rare but possible, so choose a clinic experienced with your skin tone.

Can Gold PTT replace isotretinoin (Accutane)?

Not for everyone. It can help people who cannot take isotretinoin, but severe acne often still needs medication. Ask a dermatologist which is right for you.

Where to get it in Seoul

Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.