Hori's Nevus Treatment in Seoul | Laser Cost & Sessions

Hori's Nevus explained

Hori's nevus (acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules, or ABNOM) is a benign pigment condition where melanocytes sit deep in the dermis. It shows as small gray, blue-gray or brown spots on both sides of the face, usually in women of East Asian descent from their 20s onward. It is often confused with melasma, but it needs different treatment.

How Hori's Nevus works

Since the pigment is deep, lasers that reach the dermis are used, mainly Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064nm and picosecond lasers. Spot treatment at higher energy shatters the pigment, and the body clears it over weeks. If melasma is also present, doctors often treat it first or alongside with gentler toning and topical care, because strong lasers can worsen melasma.

Who Hori's Nevus is for

Gray-brown spots on both cheeks or temples that started in adulthood
People diagnosed with Hori's nevus by a dermatologist
Those whose spots did not improve with melasma treatment
People able to return for several sessions
Those willing to follow strict sun protection

Who should avoid Hori's Nevus

Undiagnosed pigment, which needs a dermatologist's check
Active melasma flares, which need control first
Pregnant people
Recent tanning or sunburn
Those who need no visible marks for the following week

What happens at the appointment

Dermatologist consultation to tell Hori's nevus apart from melasma and freckles
Photos and a plan, sometimes with a test spot
Numbing cream for about 30 minutes
Laser spot treatment of each pigmented area
Healing ointment or patches, sunscreen and follow-up in 1–3 months

Aftercare and flying home

Apply ointment or patches as directed until crusts fall off
Do not pick at scabs
Use SPF 50 sunscreen daily for months after treatment
Avoid makeup on crusted areas
Expect the area to look darker for a few weeks before fading

Side effects and risks

Redness, swelling and crusting for 5–10 days
Temporary darkening (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), which is common
Lightening of the skin in some cases
Rarely, scarring
Worsening of coexisting melasma if not managed

How much does Hori's Nevus cost in Seoul?

₩100,000–₩300,000 (about US$75–220) — The cost depends on the number and size of spots, the laser used and whether it is combined with melasma care. Several sessions are needed, so ask for the total plan price. Prices are estimates and vary between clinics.

Why get Hori's Nevus in Korea?

Hori's nevus is common in East Asian skin, so Seoul dermatologists see it often and know how to tell it apart from melasma. Pigment lasers are widely available and prices are usually lower than abroad.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Hori's nevus treatment cost in Seoul?

Laser treatment for Hori's nevus usually costs about ₩100,000–₩300,000 per session in Seoul (roughly US$75–220). Several sessions are usually needed.

Does Hori's nevus laser hurt?

It feels like sharp snapping on the skin. Numbing cream makes it manageable for most people.

How many sessions does Hori's nevus need?

Most people need 3–8 sessions, spaced 1–3 months apart. Results are usually long-lasting once pigment clears.

What is the downtime, and can I fly after treatment?

Expect redness and small scabs for 5–10 days. Flying is fine, but keep the area covered or patched and protected from sun.

Is Hori's nevus treatment safe?

Laser treatment is well established, but temporary darkening after treatment is common. Correct diagnosis and strict sun protection lower the risks.

How do I know if it is Hori's nevus or melasma?

Hori's nevus is usually gray or blue-brown dots, while melasma is a brown patch that changes with sun and hormones. A dermatologist can tell them apart, sometimes with a skin scanner.

Hori's Nevus in Seoul